Northland School Division

Paddle Prairie students enjoying themselves at the workshop!

Little Buffalo School and Paddle Prairie School students explored the future at the Aboriginal Youth Career Workshop in Peace River November 16th. The event, located at the Sawridge Inn and Conference Centre, exposed students to post-secondary institutions and various career stations. Throughout the workshop, students interacted with role models and asked questions about careers in the military, RCMP, healthcare, education, welding, robotics, small engine repair, environment, etc. 

In addition to exploring career options, students received inspiring messages from three keynote speakers. Hope Regimbald, a member of the Woodland Cree First Nation, works for Shell Canada in external relations. In the workshop brochure she said "Our Chapans, Kokum’s and Mosum's knew that you would have to learn and walk in two worlds. Honour them. Keep one foot planted firmly in your culture. Be proud of who you are. And put one foot firmly in the other world. Work hard. Stay focused. Be brave. Never forget where you came from and always have an eye on where you want to go". 

Laurent Isadore, from Driftpile First Nation, spoke to students about being involved in gang activity and overcoming drugs and alcohol and inter-generational trauma. Isadore, now an ex-gang member has been over a decade sober from drugs and alcohol, owns his own home, has a small business and works as a Cultural Support Provider for the Indian Residential School Program, helping those affected by Residential School.

Last but not least, Brittany Johnson, spoke about overcoming adversity to graduate from the Faculty of Native Studies at the University of Alberta (U of A). Johnson is currently an office facilitator at the U of A's Augustana Campus and works as a researcher for PolicyWise for Children and Families. She also showcased her musical talent by singing her hit song "Making Bacon Naked" which plays on CFWE Radio!