There were a number of traditional skills demonstrations. (Derek Cornet/larongeNOW Staff)

By Derek Cornet

Traditional camp

Organizers hope Woodland Cree Youth Symposium inspires attendees

Jul 11, 2019 | 1:11 PM

With some dedication and effort, anyone can achieve their goals.

That’s according to Montreal Lake Cree Nation (MLCN) Chief Frank Roberts, who stated more than 300 young people from the reserve, the Lac La Ronge Indian Band and Peter Ballantyne Cree Nation registered for Woodland Cree Youth Symposium. The five-day event began July 8 and it marks the first time MLCN has hosted such an event in their community. Aside from an array of guest speakers including world-class athletes who shared advice, traditional activities were also demonstrated like hide tanning, moose meat preparation and drying, fish cleaning, beading and medicine collecting.

“We’re very happy there are teachings happening about our culture, language, traditions and our way of doing things,” Roberts said. “These events are for them to help them in their growth as individuals to be good contributing people to the community or wherever they may go on and work later on in life.”

Roberts noted hosting such events for the youth is important because of the challenges they are faced with, adding they are much different than in the past. He also mentioned it’s important for them to see there is a community of people behind them and willing to help them succeed.

With about a dozen special guests also attending the event to speak with the youth, Roberts stated their messages have been powerful.

Made in Saskatchewan

Find My Plus One: The Canadian App for Getting Out and Living Your Best Life

Mar 09, 2026

Riderville

Ask Not for Whom the Ed Hervey Tampering Window Opens!

Feb 02, 2026

Seniors Scene

New Year - New Habits

Feb 02, 2026

“This way the youth can identify with them, so we are very proud and honoured to have them in our community of Montreal Lake,” he said. “The guest speakers who are coming have ties and they are First Nations people as well too.”

Food was plentiful at the youth symposium. (Derek Cornet/larongeNOW Staff)

The symposium was organized by a group of health care professionals including primary care nurse Lindsay Iron. She stated everyone invited so far has done a good job connecting with the youth and shown them what it takes to be good role models. Iron is hopeful they will become inspired by listening to the guest speakers and learn from them how to be successful.

“We’re here to inspire the youth and showcase Montreal Lake is a beautiful community,” she said. “The sense of community here is amazing. When we host an event, everyone comes to help out. They are just really enthusiastic, and we have no problem planning something big.”

–

derek.cornet@jpbg.ca

Twitter: @saskjourno