For the next four days, more than 1000 Indigenous youth delegates are gathering in Richmond to explore, learn and engage with their peers at the Gathering Our Voices youth leadership training.
Running this year from March 20 to 23, the annual event is hosted by the BC Association of Aboriginal Friendship Centres and its Provincial Aboriginal Youth Council. The BCAAFC has hosted 15 Indigenous youth leadership trainings, with youth and chaperones attending from across the country. Last October, the event sold out in a single day for the first time ever.
“This high level of demand reinforces our belief that Gathering Our Voices is offering a unique training opportunity to Indigenous youth, and continues to meet the dynamic needs of our young delegates,” said Leslie Varley, executive director of the BCAAFC in a press release.
Over the four days, delegates participate in ceremonies, workshops, educational experiences and a youth talent showcase. The workshop topics are extremely diverse: from how to build a computer, to connecting with culture, to a behind-the-scenes look at the airport, to mental health.
“Each year we are inspired by the motivation and drive of our youth delegates and we hope the tools we give them will help them build on their personal successes,” Varley said.
All events take place at several venues on traditional Musqueam territory in Richmond, including the Sheraton Vancouver Airport Hotel, BCIT, community centres, Richmond Olympic Oval and Vancouver International Airport.
