YOUTH LEADERSHIP IN ACTION
Every day, young people are choosing to be leaders, peer mentors, and orchestrators of inspiration for younger generations.
Beyond the moments in the snow, on the water, or in the gym, our team is working with communities to help equip their young people with the skills and experience they need to shape healthier futures and carry forward knowledge that blends cultural tradition with sport and life skills.
“My favourite part about being a youth leader with Spirit North is seeing the kids have fun with the games I am leading.”
We see the results from those that inspire us every day – our youth leaders. In Edmonton, youth leaders join proams throughout the summer with the Northern Albertgra team. Youth leaders are young people who have experienced Spirit North programs first-hand and are looking for ways to support their community while gaining more valuable skills.
Community Program Leader, Jake Finney
Community Program Leader Jake Finney has seen the transformation these youth have experienced first-hand. Kids who started out quiet and unsure are now leading programs with confidence. Jake fondly recalls one youth leader’s “butterfly" experience as he slowly emerged, coming into his own. It’s something that Jake feels privileged to have witnessed.
Youth leaders who’ve grown up attending Spirit North programs have gained a unique and powerful perspective: they have a first-hand understanding of how the programs feel for the kids, and fresh ideas about how they can be made even better.
The long-term vision for many communities, and for Spirit North, is to see youth leaders grow into Assistant Program Leader or even Community Program Leader roles within the organization. We’re creating pathways for these youth to become mentors and to share their love of the land with younger generations within their communities.
“There are a couple different layers that it takes to be a successful youth leader with Spirit North. There’s knowing how to lead the activity you’re doing, being confident… but also there is a second layer of understanding where people are coming from.”
