A LEGACY OF LEADERSHIP
Skylar and Stephane Richard bring family, culture and the land to the heart of programs in Southern BC
Sport and cultural teachings play a crucial role in shaping siblings Stephane and Skylar Richard’s understanding of what it means to be a leader. Ties to family, culture, and land are central to their roles as Community Program Leaders with Spirit North.
Stephane and Skylar grew up on the territory of the Okanagan Indian Band, a place the Richard family has called home for generations. Inspired to share sport and cultural opportunities like the ones they had growing up, they feel privileged to lead these kinds of programs for the youth in their communities. Stephane leads Spirit North programs in his home territory, while Skylar now works in Secwépemc (Shuswap) territory, in the Clearwater area.
IN HER OWN WORDS
“It’s an incredible honour to be trusted and welcomed into these communities with open arms,” says Skylar. “Sometimes the most powerful learning happens organically when we’re willing to follow the kids’ curiosity and questions.”
Skylar sees her role not only as a leader but also as a learner, taking guidance from the kids and communities she works with. Stories and hands-on experiences are at the heart of her programs, and she’s dedicated to listening to what matters most to the youth in the programs she leads.
“I can already see the difference and the impact that [Skylar] has left on our children and our community. It’s important for our families and children to see a strong Indigenous woman leading and being present not only through programs but at events out in the community. Her example is helping the kids build pride in their Indigenous identity.”
The joy that bursts forth when kids start to see themselves as the teachers sparks some of the most rewarding moments for Stephane. A self-described “tree nerd,” he loves leading hikes and helping youth connect with the land through plant identification. During one program, he taught the kids the nsyilxcən word for Saskatoon berry: siya. Soon after, the students began spotting the bushes on their own, calling out “siya!” and proudly showing Stephane what they’d learned.
Stephane also leads a Spirit North biathlon program, using laser rifles to safely introduce youth to marksmanship. Biathlon can be more than just an exciting winter activity: it offers an entry point into deeper cultural practices like hunting, where focus, breath, and patience are essential.
For both Skylar and Stephane, listening and building trust are integral leadership skills and at the core of creating programs that reflect the communities’ values. The siblings are striking a balance between bringing in something new and fun for the kids to learn and creating space for what’s already there to thrive. Their approach demonstrates the value and power of aligning youth programming with cultural knowledge.
