Youth initiative programs generate lots of interest

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One of the hottest topics in Aboriginal country in the last little while attracted close to 150 delegates representing a varied cross-section of Aboriginal organizations, services and youth who gathered at Edmonton's Ramada Inn on March 18 for an all-day workshop.

The subject of interest to everyone was none other than the recently announced Urban Multipurpose Aboriginal Youth Centres Initiatives.

Officially announced Feb. 12 in Edmonton by the Honourable Ethel Blondin-Andrews, Canada's Secretary of State Responsible for Youth, and the Member of Parliament for the Western Arctic, the goal of the initiative is meant to improve the economic, social and personal prospects of urban youth

Potential board members for the youth initiatives should be capable of remaining neutral in discussions, judgments and decisions, possess a good deal of knowledge and experience in working with and among Aboriginal people and communities, be involved in community initiatives, especially youth activities, as well as have some grasp on Aboriginal spirituality, culture, traditions, and healthy lifestyles.

"You want someone who is going to be a (positive) role model," on the advisory body stated youth representative Sari Labelle of Edmonton.

Members should also exhibit "strong leadership skills," said Rachel Manichoose from Sturgeon Lake. She further suggested cultural retreats for representatives and "hands on communication," such as on-camera interviews.

A couple of groups of young people went so far as to insist that the committee be all youth with Elder advisors.

The youth initiative seminar was to move on to Calgary, then do a return engagement in Edmonton early in April, before the advisory committee is established.