Outside Looking In launches national contest to celebrate its 15th anniversary as Canada’s largest Indigenous youth performance

Outside Looking In’s Annual Showcase makes a triumphant return with hundreds of Indigenous youth on stage in a multi-media live performance

TORONTO — Canada’s largest Indigenous youth performance is back!  Despite the many curves thrown its way by COVID-19, Outside Looking In (OLI) has thrived and expanded to reach more communities across the country.  This includes a coast-to-coast-to-coast contest in search of the next rising dance star who will join OLI’s Annual Showcase on May 12 at Toronto’s Meridian Hall.

Since the inception of its high school accredited dance program in 2007, OLI has played a critical role in empowering thousands of Indigenous youth and achieving high school graduation rates of over 96% while improving academic standing and health and well-being.

Indigenous entrants between the ages of 13 and 25 are asked to submit a 30-second video illustrating their best dance skills.  The winner will receive a two-week, all expenses paid trip to Toronto to perform with 2022 JUNO Award nominees Snotty Nose Rez Kids and DJ Shub. All entries must be submitted to www.olishow.com /contest by 11:59pm, March 31, 2022.

According to OLI CEO, Tracee Smith, the contest is another way of tapping into the Indigenous community’s creative passion.

“Over the past 15 years, we have connected and inspired hundreds and hundreds of Indigenous youth who were looking for outlet to express themselves, build their confidence and create a brighter future.  Our contest allows us to cast a wider net to find those undiscovered shining stars who just need their moment in the spotlight to launch their next chapter.”

In addition to its highly successful RBC Future Leaders program, OLI recently launched the OLI Work Study Program, offering programming that help Indigenous youth pursue their interests while moving forward through their careers.  The charitable foundation also launched OLI Storytellers in which individuals record their journeys via photography and video to showcase their communities and passions.

When you speak to graduates, you quickly learn that OLI is more than getting good school grades.

“I really feel that it has helped me be more open with myself and with others,” says Gwen Monias from Garden Hill First Nation. “It helped me keep up with my self-worth.”

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About Outside Looking In

Founded in 2007, Outside Looking In is a nationally registered charitable organization that aims to empower Indigenous youth through the transformative art of dance, while they pursue education, increase their mental and physical health and engage in self-expression. For information, visit  olishow.com.

Supporters:

Outside Looking In would like to thank our generous lead supporters including, RBC Foundation, TD Bank and the Tachane Foundation.

Media Contacts:

Chris McDowall
Cmcdowall56@gmail.com
647-338-5287

Adrienne Kakoullis
akakoullis@risepr.ca
416-450-6637