Empowering Young Indigenous Women Through Leadership Programs

Over the past two years, the Young Indigenous Women’s Circle of Leadership (YIWCL) has played a vital role in empowering young Indigenous women through cultural education and community engagement. Coordinated by Dr. Trudy Cardinal, a professor of Elementary Education at the University of Alberta, the program aims to provide resources and knowledge that were not readily available to previous generations.

In a recent interview, Dr. Cardinal emphasized the importance of this initiative, stating, “We learn together. Growing up, I didn’t always have access to the knowledge that participants receive today, and we want to close that gap for the next generation.” The program not only fosters personal growth but also strengthens cultural identity among young Indigenous women.

A Rich History and Recent Developments

The YIWCL summer program has roots that extend back over two decades, initially launched as part of the Canadian Indigenous Language and Literacy Development Institute under the guidance of Dr. Heather Blair. Its original focus was on language acquisition, but it has since evolved to encompass a broader understanding of Indigenous culture, including practices like sewing, cooking, and singing.

This year, the program hosted two camps: one at the Alberta Avenue Community League in Edmonton and another in Wetaskiwin. Both locations were selected to provide tailored experiences that reflect the unique needs of urban and semi-rural participants. “Running both lets us tailor the experience and keep travel barriers low,” Dr. Cardinal explained. “Eventually, we hope to add transportation for youth in remote areas and welcome even more participants.”

Each summer camp brings together girls aged 10 to 17, fostering an identity-affirming experience that encourages intergenerational learning. Notably, this year saw an 8-year-old participant who attended with family members, showcasing the program’s commitment to including all ages in the learning process.

Engaging with Culture and Community

The camps are enriched by the involvement of elders, skilled craftswomen, and other knowledge keepers who guide the young women in traditional practices. Participants learned to sing rattle songs, a custom observed across various Indigenous Nations. They also created their own ribbon skirts, culminating in a fashion show that celebrated their cultural heritage.

Dr. Cardinal highlighted the significance of this engagement, stating, “The locations we are in are more urban, but this is also something meaningful because there’s an ability to walk in both worlds. We engage with the urban world but also learn about the natural world and what grows around us.”

Although the herbs and plants for medicine bundles are brought in for learning purposes, the program emphasizes a strong connection to the land as a foundation for accessing Indigenous knowledge. “I’m so grateful for this work I get to do,” Dr. Cardinal shared. “Running these camps each year contributes so much to my research at the University. It’s not something separate from my career as a professor but something that makes me better at my job.”

The programming is offered free of charge and is open to young women who identify as Indigenous, regardless of their prior knowledge or experience. In addition to the summer camps, the YIWCL also holds shorter “Pop-Up” sessions throughout the year, ensuring continuous engagement with the community.

For those interested in learning more, signing up for updates, or getting involved with the program, additional information is available on the YIWCL’s website.