Aboriginal youth - DEVELOPING to their full POTENTIAL

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Aboriginal youth from across Saskatchewan were entertained, but, most importantly, were educated at the Kanaweyimik First Nations Youth Awareness 2000 conference.

The conference catered to youth aged 12 to 17 years in North Battleford Sept. 27 to 29.

"The purpose of the conference was to bring together a large number of Aboriginal students to listen to speakers discuss issues relevant to Aboriginal youth," said Eleanore Sunchild, conference co-ordinator.

The three-day event included a workshop and play presented by comedian Don Burnstick that addressed issues related to drug and alcohol abuse. The conference also presented education, health and positive lifestyle through guest speakers and Aboriginal role models.

"I really liked Don Burnstick," said Joshua Whitford, 12, from Sweetgrass First Nation. "It made me feel positive about my future."

Whitford also enjoyed a fashion show that was presented by youth fashion designer Rhonda Cardinal.

"As a young designer I want to inspire other youth to seek out their talent, gifts and to achieve their full potential," said Cardinal.

The conference maintained and encouraged traditional protocol by opening with a pipe ceremony and grand entry led by traditional Elders.

"The conference was great because the Elders were involved right from the onset," said Sunchild. "They were involved with the organization and planning and we used them for guidance for the entire event, and in all facets of the conference."

The conference was attended by more than 300 students from La Ronge in northern Saskatchewan down to Fort Qu'Appelle in southern Saskatchewan.

"We're very happy with how everything turned out," said Sunchild.

Closing ceremonies were led by champion chicken dancer Rodney Atchuinum from the Sweetgrass First Nation who felt proud to be a part of the conference.

"I'm always trying to encourage the youth to get involved more with their culture. I strongly believe that as Native people we are not going to get anywhere unless we have one foot firmly planted in our culture and the other foot planted in education," said Atchuinum. "That way the two can come together to help our youth move forward."