(submitted photo/Vince Kytwayhat)

By Nicole Reis

BOYS WEEK AT GLADUE LAKE

Flying Dust First Nation holds outdoor boy’s week

Jul 28, 2020 | 4:31 PM

The Boy’s Week at Gladue Lake involving teens from Flying Dust First Nation was a great success according to the men who participated in the event to support youth in their community.

Flying Dust Community Police Officer Delbert Aubichon said the Flying Dust health team who attended were focused on having a fun and laid back week while facilitating an open connection between youth and adults in the community. He told meadowlakeNOW a number of team-building initiatives took place including a rare kayak trip along Little Waterhen River.

“We told them before we headed out on this journey, if they could accomplish this and keep pushing themselves, they could accomplish anything,” he said. “We had to push them along the way but when they made it to the beach at Tawaw, they were pretty proud of themselves.”

Ten boys ranging from 13 to 18 years old attended the event from July 20 to 23. Aubichon explained the river is often shallow and filled with weeds, however with current high water levels, the boys paddled on a rare, four-hour trip from Gladue Lake to Tawaw Cabins in Waterhen Lake.

“We wanted to take youth up to a secluded area without distractions,” he said. “It kept people off their phones and without access to Wi-Fi so it gave [boys] time to open up and realize we’re there to support them if anything happens.”

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Each day started with a prayer and sharing circle focused on what youth would like to accomplish in the day. The event began with a kayak relay following a fire building exercise using flint and a striker, and retrieving items from a tree as a team. Elder Jim Norman provided traditional teachings, storytelling and assisted youth with target shooting and firearm safety. The event included a paintball match with youth from Waterhen Lake First Nation.

Aubichon, a long-time athlete, offered insight into staying active and maintaining a healthy lifestyle. Clay Debray, of Pineridge Ford Arena spoke to youth about his life’s journey and spoke to youth about the power of resilience.

(submitted photo/Vince Kytwayhat)

Addictions and wellness councillor Vince Kytwayhat said he wants youth to know they have a support system available through their community and someone is always available to talk.

“One of the main goals was to let [youth] know they can believe in anything spiritually,” Kytwayhat said. “Whether it’s First Nation beliefs, survival beliefs or any other faith.”

Kytwayhat said some youth developed quickly as they were open to speaking and became more engaged by the end of the trip.

Talon Lambert, 16, said it was his first time attending camp and thoroughly enjoyed the time spent with people in his community. He said his experience was a memorable one as he was named Neheyo of the Year for his exceptional demonstration of leadership.

“[The trip] helped create a connection toward all us boys,” he said. “[It’s good to know] whenever we’re feeling low or need someone to talk to, we’ll have a friend.”

He says the kayak trip up Waterhen Lake was difficult but he encouraged himself and others to keep paddling.

“We were all helping each other to stay focused,” he said. “It was hard at times because the water is constantly trying to pull you back but you’ve got to push forward and push against it.”

Organizers and participants from Flying Dust First Nation included council member Tyson Bear, band member Elvis Bear, youth worker Keyano Kahpeaysewat and members from the Flying Dust Health department.

Flying Dust First Nation frequently holds health and wellbeing events for boys, girls and adults. For more information visit here.

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nicole.reis@jpbg.ca

Twitter: @nicolereis7722