Leadership Camp for First Nation, Metis & Inuit Students

For four days in February, seven Grade 8 to 10 First Nation, Metis and Inuit (FNMI) students from our Board attended the FNMI Leadership Camp held at the Tim Horton Memorial Camp in Parry Sound. (Pictured below is a Sharing Circle in the Main Lodge.)

 

The FNMI Leadership camp provided an opportunity for students to challenge themselves, work in co-operation with peers from their region and share cultural practices with each other in a safe and supportive environment. While at the camp, students participated in a number of activities – cultural and athletic – while being given an opportunity to develop their leadership skills and connect with other students from all across the north including Timmins, Cochrane, Moose Factory, Sudbury, North Bay and Parry Sound.

The Tim Horton's Children’s Foundation had previously partnered with the Ted Nolan Foundation in offering a Leadership Camp and many of ADSB’s First Nation, Metis and Inuit students attended throughout the 5 year partnership. The premise was to integrate First Nation cultural practices (drumming, beading and teachings) into leadership training to further support the success of FNMI students. Mr. Nolan recognized the importance of encouraging students to further develop and utilize their leadership skills.

 

The Tim Horton's Leadership Camp highlights cooperation and team work which align with the First Nation concept of how to be successful: challenge your fears, work in co-operation to attain a goal and share cultural practices with one another.

Cecilia (right) a student from East View Public School and Lawrence (left) from White Pines shared their thoughts on the experience with the Board of Trustees, along with their teacher chaperone Mr. Serge Pietramale.