Native Child and Family Services of Toronto: Shkiniig Minaakewag

http://www.nativechild.org/

The Shkiniig Minaakewag initiative enables youth of Aboriginal ancestry that face racism, poverty and a lack of cultural identity to cultivate Aboriginal leadership skills through active participation in traditional activities.

Its mentorship program provides tangible skills that will prepare native youth to become a needed generation of influential elders, mentors, and community representatives on Aboriginal issues in Toronto. 

15 youth aged 12-18 attend weekly classes in traditional music, song, dance, drama and art from Aboriginal elders. They also participate in traditional ceremonies such as the monthly full moon celebration, teaching circles and sweat lodges. These youth are mentoring younger children in arts, drama and dance in after school programs and weekly girls and boys groups meet to discuss health and development.

Youth were hired to do outreach - a role previously assigned to elders - an example of how youth are being integrated into the organization in leadership roles. The participants have established a youth council to support and encourage each other as well as discuss issues that affect youth and develop activities as needed. 

Participants have reported a greater sense of belonging and self confidence. They have demonstrated a greater commitment to school with five youth applying to complete the GED exam. The initiative is a successful example of a culturally specific approach to building youth leadership.