Indigenous youth connect through Shki Mii-Kaanhs cultural retreat

Shki Mii-Kaanhs – New Path: Young Adult Cultural Leadership Retreat that took place over Family Day weekend. The retreat focused on cultural activities and teachings.

By Victoria Racette

SOUTH RIVER— Family is a single word with many different meanings. Over this past Family Day weekend, a group of Indigenous youth left the Shki Mii-Kaanhs (New Path) Young Adult Cultural Leadership Retreat carrying with them a new meaning of the word family. A meaning that will continue to resonate with all of the participants who came together at the retreat, sharing the common desire to connect with other Indigenous youth and the Anishinaabe culture.

The four-day retreat, hosted by the Anishinabek Nation Social Development Department, was held at Northern Edge Algonquin Nature Retreat & Awareness Centre in South River, Ont. The retreat provided Indigenous youth aged 18-29 with a new opportunity to build their leadership skills by participating in hands-on, culturally-based activities and teachings.

“Shki Mii-Kaanhs means ‘new path’ in Anishinaabemowin and was a huge success,” said Sarah Blackwell, Youth Coordinator for the Anishinabek Nation. “The participants gained valuable leadership skills as they shared their individual talents with each other during workshops and socially.”

Throughout the retreat, participants engaged in a variety of outdoor and indoor activities that included singing, dancing and beading. Firekeeper teachings were provided by Perry Mcleod-Shabogesic while Gokomis Lorraine Liberty conducted water teachings. The teachings continued with participants learning about the importance of Mukwaa (bears) and the traditional significance of “Bear Moon” – the time of year for renewal. As winter is ending, bears are coming out of hibernation and bringing new life with them as they birth their cubs.

“My sister and I attended the retreat and we loved it! We’re grateful for all of the beautiful teachings and to have made many friends. I appreciate feeling more connected to my culture,” expressed a youth participant.

Coordination of the retreat was supported by the Anishinabek Youth Planning Committee, consisting of Sarah Blackwell, Youth Coordinator, Gokomis Virginia Goulais and youth members Pierre Bourassa, Mathew Gauthier, Brittnay Meunier-Gauthier, Jordyn Cassandra Commanda, Jasmine Michel, and Sarita Bellefeuille.

“As one of the youth mentors that took part in planning this event; it turned out way better than ever expected,” shared Bourassa. “It has reminded me of how powerful our traditions and our culture is. I’m very thankful that I got this experience. Miigwech.”