Young Mentors Lead Life-Changing Outdoor Trips in N.W.T.

UPDATE: A group of young Indigenous mentors is making waves in the Sahtu region of Canada’s Northwest Territories, guiding youth on transformative outdoor experiences. Just this week, participants returned to Norman Wells after a week-long canoe journey that aimed to reconnect them with their land and culture.

The initiative, led by Black Spruce Education, strives to immerse more Indigenous youth in nature, providing them with essential skills and fostering leadership. Starting from Kelly Lake, the group has been navigating to Tulit’a, teaching participants how to fish, cook over open fires, and embrace their heritage.

Taneisha Sangris, aged 21, has stepped into a leadership role after experiencing her first trip with Black Spruce Education in 2022. “I feel fulfilled after these trips,” she expressed. “You know, give them a chance to come on the land and learn different skills and gain confidence.”

On their recent trek, the team paddled across lakes and rivers, camping and learning from each other. Sangris reflected on the deeper meaning of these trips, saying, “It’s very relaxing. You really feel the purpose in it.” Participants docked in Norman Wells on Wednesday after a rewarding week outdoors.

Another mentor, Riley Modeste, who joined his first Black Spruce trip years ago, is now facilitating and sharing his knowledge with younger participants from his own community of Délı̨nę. “My dad taught me so much, and I want to use that knowledge to teach these kids,” he said. “It was really nice seeing them come out and spend two weeks with us.”

Modeste emphasized the healing power of these experiences, stating, “I would say it heals you too at the same time.” His recent two-week trip included navigating a network of lakes and rivers, reflecting the profound impact of mentors on the next generation.

Participant Jaden Lennie joined a hiking trip with Black Spruce in 2023 to earn school credits but found it to be life-changing. “Just being around all these people and leaders that really inspired me… I’ve grown a lot,” he shared. Lennie highlighted the mental, physical, and spiritual benefits of these adventures.

As the program continues to flourish, the young mentors are not only shaping the future of their peers but also reconnecting with their roots. Black Spruce Education’s efforts are vital in fostering a sense of community and identity among Indigenous youth.

Stay tuned for more updates as these inspiring trips continue to unfold across the Sahtu region, empowering the next generation to embrace their culture and heritage.