YOUTH LEADERSHIP IN ACTION

PHASE IV2013 – 2014

INTRODUCTIONPage | 1

On behalf of the Social Development Advisors Technical Group, Swampy Cree Tribal Council was approved to manage and oversee the “Youth Leadership in Action Phase 4” for the year of 2013-2014 fiscal year. This project receives funding through the Skills Link program with the assistance of Sherry Beardy, AANDC Active Measures Specialist. This program provided 27 Manitoba First Nation youth with the opportunity to gain employment within their Tribal Council, First Nation or Independent First Nation.

The roles and responsibilities of the Community Active Measures Representatives (CAM Reps) included but not limited to:

Get basic statistics of their First Nation in youth ages 18-30 who are on social assistance (gender, age, education level, and to identify their goals (employment, education, or training)

Host consultation meetings/discussions with youth between ages 18-30 in their respected communities

Attend meetings with key stake holders such as Chief and Council and other entities like Employment and Training, Social and Educational Departments to develop long term strategies to minimize the amount of youth in social assistance.

Assist their social assistance and employment and training departments in their communities with various tasks.

Learn about WOP and ASARET applications with an idea that they see would work in their communities.

Attend various workshops and trainings throughout the program that help them learn more about themselves and give them the leadership skills to play an active role in addressing some of the complex challenges in their First Nation.

Submit journal entries on a weekly basis to their regional coordinator to monitor their progress and growth as an individual in their First Nation.

ELEVATING SKILL DEVELOPMENT THROUGH TRAINING, WORKSHOPS AND CONFERENCES

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Throughout the Community Active Measures Youth Leadership project, Swampy Cree Tribal Council afforded all opportunities to as many of the CAM Reps as possible to enhance employability skills and promoting further skill development. Also, it was important that all CAM Reps were able to gain as much education on First Nation-led projects and initiatives as possible. As such, Swampy Cree Tribal Council enabled these educational opportunities to take place, which also served as inspirational workshops, conferences, and trainings. The CAM Reps were able to venture outside their communities and see the development that is occurring in First Nation communities, both provincially and nationally. November 18-22, 2013 Saskatoon, SKAssembly of First Nations National Youth SummitThe Assembly of First Nation’s (AFN) National Youth Summit was the first major event attended by the CAM Representatives and Coordinators. The theme for the 4th annual Youth Summit was, “Youth Leadership: Supporting the Way Forward”. The National Youth Summit is held every 5 years and the CAM reps were given an opportunity to participate in the development of the new 5 year strategic plan. There were 51 booths ranging from all different kinds of universities and employment opportunities. During the summit the CAM reps had to attend various workshops from gang violence to totem pole carving. The CAM reps also participated in the AFN’s Stop bullying; Stand up – Speak out March. The coordinators, with the help of Patricia Dorion and Caroline Ducharme, also utilized this time to conduct an orientation to officially begin the project. Furthermore, during this time the CAM Representatives and Coordinators met with project funder, Sherry Beardy, to review the Work Opportunity Program and ASARET program.

December 2-6, 2013 The Pas, MBCEPS Training (Cultural, Economic, Political, and Social)

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Delivered by Carla Cochrane, AMC’s Youth Secretariat. The CAM reps were able to attend this Train the Trainer session, enabling them to further

develop skills in leadership and conflict resolution through practice. For their efforts and commitment, CAM Reps received certificates to facilitate the

CEPS training in their own First Nation’s

. Left to Right Top: Brandy Swampy, Jeremy Sinclair, Candida Mckay, Marcus Traverse,

Kelvin Sumner, Elizabeth Assiniboine, Janine Mason, Deidre Clearsky, Brittany Dorion, Carla Cochrane

Left to Right Bottom: Veronica Cameron, Jaycee Seenie, Meredith Bruce, Carmel Olson, Emily Ballantyne, Louie Tssessaze

Missing from photo: Dustin Chartrand, Tenille Daniels, Casey Richard, Virginia Walker, Brandi Thompson, Colleen Bighetty

December 7-12 Montreal, QCFamily Violence Prevention Training, Honoring the Men in the circle conference

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Held in Montreal, Quebec. The two regional coordinators and two CAM representatives were given the great privilege of attending the “Honoring Men in the Circle” Conference, hosted by the National Aboriginal Circle against Family Violence. Those in attendance were privileged to listen to highly motivating individuals who all shared stories and inspiration on ending family violence. The conference started with the “Eeyou Istchee Walkers” from the James Bay Region in Quebec. The walkers covered over 1,000 kms throughout the journey. Curtis Hargrove is another encouraging individual that walked nearly 300 kms in women’s high heels. Next to speak was Cecil Sveinson, an Aboriginal Winnipeg Police office. Cecil spoke about family violence from the police perspective. He too shared inspiring words on ending family violence and violence in our communities. Following Cecil was Mr. Albert Pooley from the Native American Fatherhood and Families Association. Mr. Pooley shared one of the most influential and awakening presentation called “Fatherhood is Sacred”. Lastly, we heard about another story of a man who walked many miles in hopes of promoting healthy lifestyles, Dr. Stanley Vollant.

January 18-23 Saskatoon, SKAboriginal Community Warriors Program

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A total of four CAM Reps - two from the North and and two from the South attended the Aboriginal Community Warrior training. The Native Way Training Services (NWTS) specializes in the promotion of health and fitness for aboriginal populations using cultural values. The AWC program has three different components: Internationally Recognized Aboriginal Personal Training Certificate, Community Mobilization Training and Aboriginal Sport Development. The NWTS partnered with Canfitpro Personal Training Specialist (PTS) who is noted as Canada’s leading personal training certification program. This certification provides comprehensive program content and a wide range of practical skills that will ensure success to those who hold the designation. One month after the training, the participating CAM Reps write an exam and if they pass both the practical and written parts, they will be Certified Personal Trainers. The Community Mobilization Tool Kit offers step-by-step information on how to mobilize your community and provides an excellent learning opportunity, as well as a venue for the exchange of ideas among future Aboriginal Warriors. The CAM Reps who attended learned how to do community assessment, how to apply for funding and how to create community awareness. The basic introductory Aboriginal Sport Development course allows the participants to get familiar with important elements of athlete development – the various stages, physical literacy, injury prevention and keys factors of sport development.

January 27-29 Winnipeg, MB

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First Nation control of First Nation’s Education ConferenceSwampy Cree Tribal Council hosted a conference for First Nations of the North on the First Nation Education Act. The two coordinators and five Cam reps attended this conference. The conference focused on the proposed legislation by the federal government, “First Nations Control of First Nation’s Education”. Communities from Northern Manitoba were given the chance to review the proposed document and provide feedback. The coordinators and representatives that attended played various roles emceeing, facilitating and organizing throughout the conference.January 30- February 1 Winnipeg, MBFamily Violence and First Nation’s Implications TrainingOne CAM representative and one regional coordinator attended the Family Violence and First Nation Implication Training in Winnipeg, Manitoba. The training that took place explored the many forms of violence happening within our families and our communities. The two day training was very informative and facilitation done by Pinaysiiwak Consulting was superb. After the two day training everyone who completed the training received a certificate of completion.

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February 5-6 the Pas, MBFirst Aid/ CPR training (Standard C)Delivered by Steve Merasty, St John First Aid and CPR Instructor. All the CAM reps attended this training and received certificates at the end. The training was very hands on and not only did the CAM reps learn through the textbook but also got to use the defibrillators, air masks, splints and bandages. The training was very useful and the CAM reps left feeling very accomplished and confident in CPR/ First aid.

February 23- March 1 Halifax, NSAboriginal Financial Officers Association (AFOA) National ConferenceThe A.F.O.A Annual conference was held in Halifax, NS. The A.F.O.A conference brings together Aboriginal financial professionals, management and elected leaders. Throughout the conference you are intrigued by the Aboriginal success stories in regards to finance and economic development happening across Turtle Island. There were many workshops and panel discussions to further enhance your understanding in the business world. This year we were able to send two coordinators and three Cam representatives to the 2014 A.F.O.A National Conference.

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March 11-13 Winnipeg, MBCircling Buffalo Orientation The CAM reps attended the orientation in Winnipeg, Manitoba hosted by Circling Buffalo in partnership with the Province of Manitoba. The conference offered many educational workshops on enhancing family’s kinship and relationships, awareness on different acts of violence and the opportunity to network with various organizations and individuals. CAM reps helped with registration and also broke into groups and helped facilitate various sessions, took notes and compiled them in the end.

March 17-21 Vancouver, BCGathering Our Voices ConferenceThis year five Cam representatives and one coordinator attended the Gathering our Voices youth conference hosted by the B.C Association of Aboriginal Friendship Centres. The conference took place at the Hyatt Regency and Fairmont Hotel downtown Vancouver. There the participants

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had the opportunity to select from a wide variety of workshops geared more towards their age demographic. This year there were more than 2000 youth and delegates in attendance, breaking previous attendance records.

March 24-27 the Pas, MBHugh Munroe Construction camp visitHugh Munroe is a heavy construction company that has diversified by engaging in several aspects of construction such as excavation, drilling and blasting, aggregate processing, base laying, surface treatment, fiber optic, voice frequency cable laying and snow clearing. The CAM reps that were interested, toured the workplace/camp in Snow Lake and seen firsthand how a life in construction is. The CAM reps also met with the Brent Good who explained how one gets hired and what they look for in an employee.

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Social Development Advisors Meeting (Duration of the Project)Every month the Social Development Advisory Technical Group (SDATG) hosted meetings in various tribal council offices. CAM Reps and Coordinators were given the opportunity to attend to witness the work being done at the Tribal Council level in the area of Social Development. The purpose of these meetings is to review and address First Nations issues (Day 1). The second day is a bilateral meeting with Aboriginal Affairs and Northern Development representatives attending. The third day is designated to meet with other provincial and federal departments to see what services can be accessed or what work can be completed jointly for the Manitoba First Nations. The SDA meetings were highly educational and informative, as each Representative and Coordinator grew their capacity in Social Development.

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THE COMMUNITY ACTIVE MEASURES REPRESENTATIVES

Southern RegionBrandi Thompson

Pinaymootang First Nation (Southern Coordinator)Mentor – Lana Thompson & Krystal MarsdenWhen the project first started I was placed to work out of the Assembly of Manitoba Chiefs office in downtown Winnipeg under the supervision of my mentor Carla Cochrane; the Youth Secretariat. This project really opened my eyes and helped me into finding out what career path that I needed to be on and gave me so many opportunities and knowledge on how to get there. The program also gave me the training and skills on how to manage information and also plan trips/events for others. After the program I feel more employable and more aware of the different types of work that there is to do.

Training & Conferences Attended: Assembly of First Nations National Youth Summit CEPS Training (Cultural, Economic, Political, and Social) Honoring the Men in the circle conference First Nation control of First Nation’s Education conference First Aid/ CPR training (Standard C) A.F.O.A National Conference Circling Buffalo Orientation Attended monthly Social Development Advisory Technical Group

Meetings

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Southeast Resource Development Council (SERDC)Social Advisor: Kitty Keeper

Carmel Shawna Olson – CAM Rep

Brokenhead First NationMentor – Alicia DesjarlaisCarmel Shawna Olson worked out of the E.A.S.T resource centre in her First Nation of Brokenhead throughout the program. Carmel worked alongside her mentor Alicia Desjarlais and helped with assisting clients with building their resumes. Carmel and another CAM rep Emily Ballantyne from Brokenhead also held their first CEPS training to members in their community and held afternoon and evening programs aimed toward youth. Shawna Olson quotes… “While being a CAM rep and holding these programs in my community made me feel so fulfilled and happy to know that I was helping my fellow community members out“

Training & Conferences Attended: Assembly of First Nations National Youth Summit CEPS Training (Cultural, Economic, Political, and Social) First Nation control of First Nation’s Education conference First Aid/ CPR training (Standard C) Circling Buffalo Orientation Gathering our Voices Conference

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Emily Ballantyne – CAM Rep

Brokenhead First NationMentor – Alicia DesjarlaisAs a CAM rep Emily Ballantyne worked out of the E.A.S.T resource centre in Brokenhead First Nation. There she did many administrative duties and worked alongside her mentor Alicia Desjarlais and other CAM rep Shawna Olson. After completing the CEPS training Emily and Shawna immediately held a CEPS training for the band members of Brokenhead. She also held afternoon and evening programs with Shawna, aimed towards the youth in their community.Emily Ballantyne quotes… “I feel like I made a difference and I got the chance to really interact with my community members.”

Training & Conferences Attended: Assembly of First Nations National Youth Summit CEPS Training (Cultural, Economic, Political, and Social) First Nation control of First Nation’s Education conference First Aid/ CPR training (Standard C) Circling Buffalo Orientation Gathering our Voices Conference

Attached below are posters from programs undertaken by Carmel and Emily:

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Meredith Bruce – CAM Rep

Popular River First NationWhile being employed as a CAM rep, Meredith worked out of her band office in Popular River where she helped out of the Social Assistance department in the office. She learned how to register and assist clients in applying for WOP projects happening in her community. Meredith also attended the Social Advisors meetings with her advisor Kitty Keeper.

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Meredith Bruce quotes “don’t change anything about this project it’s great the way it is. Makes you feel like you can become anything you set your mind to”

Training & Conferences Attended: Assembly of First Nations National Youth Summit CEPS Training (Cultural, Economic, Political, and Social) Attended Social Advisory Meeting

Jeremy Whiteway – CAM Rep

Berens River First NationMentor – Vanessa BerensJeremy Whiteway was assigned to work out of the Berens River First Nation under the supervision of his mentor Vanessa Berens where he assisted the social assistance department on filing, faxing and compiling.

Training & Conferences Attended: Assembly of First Nations National Youth Summit CEPS Training (Cultural, Economic, Political, and Social) Attended Social Advisory Meeting

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Dakota Ojibway Tribal Council (DOTC)Advisors: Tim Wasicuna and Brenda Smoke

Casey Richard – CAM RepMissing PhotoSandy Bay First NationMentor – Kathy SpenceCasey Richard worked out of the ASETS office in Sandy Bay while he was employed through the program as a CAM rep. His mentor Kathy Spence taught him how to file, fax, photocopy and most importantly help out the clients that come into the office looking for employment. Casey spends most of his time helping clients that want to get off social assistance and apply for employment by filling out applications that are in need as in birth certificates and for the youth helping them applying for social insurance numbersCasey quotes “I found that I really enjoy helping people out with whatever they need”

Training & Conferences Attended: Assembly of First Nations National Youth Summit CEPS Training (Cultural, Economic, Political, and Social) First Nation control of First Nation’s Education conference First Aid/ CPR training (Standard C) Circling Buffalo Orientation

Veronica Cameron – CAM RepPage | 17

Swan Lake First NationMentor – Barb HobsonVeronica worked out of the Swan Lake band office under the supervision of her mentor Barb Hobson as her time as a CAM rep. She assisted her mentor with many administrative duties like filing, faxing, photocopying, and mailing. She also worked out at the Swampy Cree Tribal Council office where she did some work for Northern First Nation.Veronica quotes “so glad I got to be a part of this program, met a lot of new people, learned a lot and enjoyed travelling to different places. My favorite part was CEPS because it helped me with public speaking”

Training & Conferences Attended: Assembly of First Nations National Youth Summit CEPS Training (Cultural, Economic, Political, and Social) First Aid/ CPR training (Standard C) Family Violence Prevention Training, Hugh Munroe construction camp visit

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Elizabeth Assiniboine – CAM Rep

Long Plain First NationMentor – Darryl MeechesElizabeth Assiniboine has been a great help to her band office social assistance department while being employed as a CAM rep. Elizabeth has spent most of her time assisting her mentor Darryl Meeches in compliance and operates CRW system on the daily. Elizabeth files all the finances in every category from her First Nation that includes, social assistance, health, employment and training, arrowhead, noninsured health benefits and housing.Elizabeth Assiniboine quotes “Throughout the project I have learned so much and I am very thankful for that”

Training & Conferences Attended: Assembly of First Nations National Youth Summit CEPS Training (Cultural, Economic, Political, and Social) First Nation control of First Nation’s Education conference Circling Buffalo Orientation Thought patterns for a successful career

Tenille Daniels – CAM Rep

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Long Plain First NationMentor – Lorraine DanielsTenille Daniels worked out of the Employment and Training office in Long Plain First Nation during her time as a CAM rep under the supervision of her mentor Lorraine Daniels. There Tenille helped the office out in administrative duties as in filing, taking calls and faxing. She assisted in preparation of the First Nations job fund and attended social meetings in her community.Tenille quotes “I really enjoyed being a CAM rep because I got to travel to different places and meet new people. I learned how to communicate better with people when it came to working in a group and that helped me in not being shy anymore. I have way more confidence”

Training & Conferences Attended: Assembly of First Nations National Youth Summit CEPS Training (Cultural, Economic, Political, and Social) First Aid/ CPR training (Standard C) Circling Buffalo Orientation

Jaycee Seenie – CAM Rep

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Roseau River First NationMentor – Jason JohnsonMr. Seenie worked out of Ginew Employment and Training office in his First Nation of Roseau River during his employment as a CAM rep. Jaycee started up projects like ‘Brighter future for the youth and Job awareness workshops’. He also started a survey and workshop with the help of his mentor Jason Johnson called the Community Employment Workshop where they gave young adults an essential employability skills booklet and talked about the initial plan of finding and getting employed. Jaycee quotes “Being a CAM rep made me a role model in my community for the younger youth and also to some adults as well”

Training & Conferences Attended: Assembly of First Nations National Youth Summit CEPS Training (Cultural, Economic, Political, and Social) First Aid/ CPR training (Standard C) A.F.O.A National Conference Circling Buffalo Orientation

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Deidre Clearsky – CAM Rep

Waywayseecappo First NationMentor – Denise MentuckDeidre Clearsky worked out of the Waywayseecappo First Nation band office at her time as CAM rep. She worked under the supervision of her mentor Denise Mentuck, where she did administrative duties as in filing, book keeping, faxing, photocopying, and data collecting for Manitoba Hydro. Deirdre also helped her First Nation plan community events and would also facilitate. Deidre quotes “I loved meeting all the other CAM reps and loved getting to know the coordinators. Also the CEPS training helped me become a better speaker”

Training & Conferences Attended: Assembly of First Nations National Youth Summit CEPS Training (Cultural, Economic, Political, and Social) First Aid/ CPR training (Standard C) A.F.O.A National Conference Circling Buffalo Orientation

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Interlake Reserves Tribal Council (IRTC)Advisor: Vivian Caron

Tanita Cruly – CAM Rep

Dauphin River First NationMentor – Yvonne StaggTanita Cruly is a member of the Dauphin River First Nation and was employed by the Community Active Measures program for a short period. During her employment as a CAM rep, Tanita worked out of her First Nation’s temporary Band office located in Winnipeg, Manitoba. There she was assigned to her mentor Ivyonne Stagg and performed administrative duties for the staff.

Training & Conferences Attended: First Aid/ CPR training (Standard C) Circling Buffalo Orientation

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Marcus Traverse – CAM Rep

Kinonjeoshtegon First Nation (Jackhead)Mentor – Tony TraverseDuring his time as a CAM rep, Marcus Traverse worked out of the Kinonjeoshtegon First Nation band office where he job shadowed his mentor Tony Traverse. Marcus worked and reached out to the youth in his community, always stopping by the school and sharing with them what he learned throughout the program. Every two weeks Marcus would travel to Winnipeg with his mentor to attend meetings and trainings. There he completed the training and received certificates that will help him further his employability skills.Marcus quotes “The CAM rep program taught me so much, I have become more of a leader. The program made me break out of my shell and become more confident. The program was very beneficial in building a more positive outlook in young Aboriginal people throughout Manitoba. If I could do this job for a second term I definitely would”

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West Region Tribal Council (WRTC)Lorie Nepinak and Charles Baptiste

Candida McKay – CAM Rep

Pine Creek First NationMentor – Audrey BrassCandida McKay worked out of the Pine Creek First Nation band office during her time as a CAM rep. She and another CAM rep from her First Nation worked administrative duties and assisted clients coming in to fill out documents under the supervision of their mentor Audrey Brass.Candida quotes “Being a CAM rep made me known in my community as always the one to come too when needing help. It made me a role model for the younger generation. I loved meeting all the other CAM reps”

Training & Conferences Attended: Assembly of First Nations National Youth Summit CEPS Training (Cultural, Economic, Political, and Social) First Aid/ CPR training (Standard C) Circling Buffalo Orientation

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Dustin Chartrand – CAM Rep

Pine Creek First NationMentor – Audrey BrassMr. Chartrand worked out of the Pine Creek First Nation band office with a fellow CAM rep from the same community. There he worked administrative duties and assisted the staff of the office under the supervision of his mentor Audrey Brass.Dustin quotes “Being employed by this program made me open my eyes and realize that I want to continue to pursue employment”

Training & Conferences Attended: Assembly of First Nations National Youth Summit CEPS Training (Cultural, Economic, Political, and Social) First Aid/ CPR training (Standard C) Circling Buffalo Orientation

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Independent SouthJessica Guimond – CAM Rep

Sagkeeng First NationMentor – Melanie CourcheneJessica Guimond worked out of the Sagkeeng Employment and training office with fellow CAM rep Chris Fontaine and their mentor Melanie Courchene. Throughout the program Jessica and Chris hosted and facilitated many programs, workshops and a career fair in Sagkeeng aimed towards youth and individuals on social assistance. Jessica went to the Aboriginal Community Warriors program in Saskatoon where she completed the course and received her certificate as a Community Warrior and CanFit Pro recognized throughout Canada and abroad. Jessica put her training from the Warriors program to use and held a junior warriors program aimed towards the younger generation in Sagkeeng. Jessica quotes “Being in this program and travelling to all the workshops and trainings helped me decide which career path I want to go on in the future. It really inspired me to want to go into politics to be the change in leadership my reserve greatly needs.

Training & Conferences Attended: Assembly of First Nations National Youth Summit CEPS Training (Cultural, Economic, Political, and Social)

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First Aid/ CPR training (Standard C) Circling Buffalo Orientation Aboriginal Community Warriors Program

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Chris Fontaine – CAM Rep

Sagkeeng First NationMentor – Melanie CourcheneDuring his employment as a CAM rep Chris Fontaine worked out of the Employment and Training office in Sagkeeng First Nation alongside fellow CAM rep Jessica Guimond and mentor Melanie Courchene. Chris and Jessica hosted and facilitated many programs, workshops and training aimed towards the youth and adults in Sagkeeng that are on

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social assistance. They hosted a career fair in their gymnasium and got the support from 12 booths and had over 100 individuals attend. Chris and Jessica also had the opportunity to talk on a radio show about what being a CAM rep is and all about. Chris quotes “Being in this program helped me become a better public speaker and gain a lot of confidence in myself. Also taught me that anything is possible and whatever you set your mind to, you can overcome”

Northern Region

Jeremy Sinclair

Opaskwayak Cree Nation (Northern Coordinator)Mentor – Patricia DorionDuring my employment in the Community Active Measures Project, I was situated in the Swampy Cree Tribal Council office, which was the head office

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for the project. I was placed under the supervision and received outstanding mentorship from Patricia Dorion, Manager of Social Development, and Caroline Ducharme, Social Advisor. Swampy Cree Tribal Council provided me with the resources necessary to accomplish our day to day objectives, ie. Office space, phone, computer and internet access, photocopier and fax machine. The project has certainly enhanced my capacity and capabilities in leading groups, projects and initiatives. I have gained valuable knowledge and expertise in the area of social development, as well as further strengthening my personal and professional development. I am very thankful to have been given the opportunity to participate in such an amazing and empowering youth in leadership initiative.

Training & Conferences Attended: Assembly of First Nations National Youth Summit CEPS Training (Cultural, Economic, Political, and Social) Honoring Men in the Circle Conference First Nation Control of First Nation’s Education Conference First Aid/ CPR training (Standard C) A.F.O.A National Conference Circling Buffalo Orientation Family Violence Implications Training Attended monthly Social Development Advisory Technical Group

Meetings

Swampy Cree Tribal CouncilPatricia Dorion and Caroline Ducharme

Brittany Dorion

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Opaskwayak Cree NationMentor – Patricia DorionDuring the project, Brittany worked out of the Swampy Cree Tribal Council office in the Opaskwayak Cree Nation. She received mentorship from the Manager of Social Development Manager Patricia Dorion and Social Advisor Caroline Ducharme. Throughout the time she was employed, Brittany provided exceptional administrative assistance in the office. She was a great help in coordinating travel arrangements and training initiatives. She also provided technical support within the Swampy Cree Tribal Council office and its First Nations the organization represents. Brittany was a wealth of knowledge for the other’s to learn from and found herself taking on many leadership roles within the project. Final thoughts from Brittany…….”Being a CAM Rep helped me overcome my shyness and fear of public speaking. I really enjoyed traveling to different conferences and training because it gave me the opportunity to see new places, gain more knowledge, meet new people and obtain certificates. I would recommend the program to youth because it helps you break out of your shell and grow as an individual. Also, you gain valuable knowledge and certificates for future jobs.”

Training & Conferences Attended: Assembly of First Nations Youth Summit CEPS Training (Cultural, Economic, Political, Social) Honoring Men in the Circle Conference Family Violence Implications Training First Aid/CPR Training (Standard C)

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A.F.O.A National Conference Circling Buffalo Orientation Aboriginal Community Warrior Training

Brandy Swampy

Opaskwayak Cree NationMentor – Patricia Dorion and Caroline DucharmeAll through the project Brandy was placed at the Swampy Cree Tribal Council office on the Opaskwayak Cree Nation. Bandy also acquired mentorship from Patricia Dorion, Manager of Social Development and Social Advisor Caroline Ducharme. During her employment Brandy displayed great administrative support in the SCTC office. She took on many roles within the organization when called upon. Some of the duties given to Brandy were: answering phone calls and taking messages, data collection, write up cheque requisitions for travel advances, make travel arrangements and many other tasks. Brandy was a valuable asset to the project and assisted in many different ways. Final thoughts from Brandy…….”What I really liked about the CAM Rep group was meeting new people and going to different places.”

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Training & Conferences Attended: Assembly of First Nations Youth Summit CEPS Training (Cultural, Economic, Political, Social) Honoring Men in the Circle Conference First Aid/CPR Training (Standard C) Circling Buffalo Orientation

Kevin Genaille

Sapotawayak Cree NationMentor – Angela LeaskKevin was placed at the Social Department in his home community and obtained mentorship from Angela Leask. While employed in the project, Kevin had the opportunity to further enhance his professional and personal development. He was called upon to perform many tasks within the social department. Some of those duties included: filing and book keeping, distributing social payments to social clients and photocopying. Kevin also had the great privilege of traveling throughout the project with trips such as attending his mentorship week at the SCTC office, attending Quick Books training at the Academy College of Learning in Swan River, Family Violence Prevention Program Conference in Winnipeg, Hugh Munroe Construction Camp Visit in Snow Lake and Gathering our Voices Youth Conference in Vancouver, BC.

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Final thoughts from Kevin…...”My final thought for the project CAM REP phase 4, I met a lot of great people. Learned a lot at every workshop I’ve been too. I went to a few places I haven’t been yet such as Pukatawagan and Snow Lake. I achieved a few certificates like the first aid training and the quick books exam.”

Training & Conferences Attended: First Aid/CPR Training (Standard C) Quick Books Training – Academy College of Learning Circling Buffalo Orientation Gathering our Voices Youth Conference Hugh Munroe Construction Camp Visit

Keewatin Tribal CouncilMentors: Jim Beardy

Louie Tssessaze

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Lac Brochet Dene Nation

Mentor – Eleanor VeuillotWhile employed throughout the project, Louie was under the supervision of Eleanor Veuillot and worked out of the Social Department in his home community. Louie demonstrated leadership skills during his tenure as he coordinated and chaired meetings with key stake holders in his community of Lac Brochet. Louie also worked tirelessly in and around Lac Brochet and is considered a valuable asset to their community events. Louie also had many opportunities to travel and raise his level of education and understanding around First Nations issues. He spent one week of the each month attending his mentorship week in Thompson under Jim Beardy. He and fellow CAM Rep Colleen Bighetty were afforded the opportunity to learn about affairs at the tribal council level.

Final thoughts from Louie….”I really enjoyed working in the program even it was just for a short 5 months. I have gained a lot of experience during the 5 months. I got to travel to places like Saskatoon, Winnipeg, The Pas and Thompson. I also met a lot of people that had experience in office setting. This program helped me learn to organize, prepare, take instructions, communicate with others, work with different departments and working with leadership. If only the program ran longer.”

Training & Conferences Attended:

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Assembly of First Nations Youth Summit CEPS Training (Cultural, Economic, Political, Social) First Nation Control of First Nation’s Education Conference First Aid/CPR Training (Standard C) Monthly Mentorship Week at Tribal Council

Colleen Bighetty

Brochet First NationMentor – Robert MerastyFor the duration of the project, Colleen was put in the youth department in her home community and received mentorship from Robert Merasty. Colleen performed many important duties for the youth in her community. Often times she would be given the responsibility of designing programs and implementing those programs for their youth activities nights. Colleen also performed different tasks around the office such as: answering phone calls, filing documents and ensuring programs were running efficiently. Also, Colleen would spend one week out of the month with fellow CAM Rep Louie Tssessaze in Thompson for their mentorship week with Jim Beardy. There they were given the chance to learn about the operations and concerns at the tribal council level. Final thoughts from Colleen…..”During the program I got to meet and work with a lot of people from different communities and it was a pleasure to get to know them and learn from them as well.”

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Training & Conferences Attended: Assembly of First Nations Youth Summit CEPS Training (Cultural, Economic, Political, Social) First Aid/CPR Training (Standard C) Monthly Mentorship Week at Tribal Council

Island Lake Tribal CouncilMentors: Phyllis Harper/Clarence Mason

Janine Mason

Wasagamack First NationMentor – Phyllis HarperJanine was placed under the supervision of Phyllis Harper at the beginning of the project. Janine also worked alongside Crystal Wood in her local Social Assistance Department. Throughout the time of her employment Janine performed many tasks while under the supervision of Phyllis Harper. Many of which were administrative support for the respected department she worked in. She would perform tasks like: answering phone calls, collecting data and filing important documents, sending out faxes and keeping files up to date. Janine also traveled to learn more about social development and the areas pertaining to the social department.

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Final Thoughts from Janine…….”I really enjoyed being one of the selected CAM Reps. I’m glad I went to the training just so I can use the things I’ve learned. I would like to encourage the youth in my community to try and go for the CAM Rep position next year because they can learn from it or even make a change in the community. After CEPS Training I would like to speak up and make a change. And I’m thankful for all the new things I have learned.”

Training & Conferences Attended: Assembly of First Nations Youth Summit CEPS Training (Cultural, Economic, Political, Social) First Aid/CPR Training (Standard C) Standing Buffalo Orientation Attended Social Development Advisory Technical Group Meeting

Virginia Walker

St. Theresa PointMentor – Sonya MoniasFor the duration of the project was given mentorship from Sonya Monias. Virginia was placed in the Social Department in her home community. While employed, Virginia performed duties such as: answering phone calls and

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taking messages, filing and book keeping and other numerous task around the office she worked out of. Virginia has also traveled along with the other reps to conferences and training seminars. Final Thoughts from Virginia……”I really enjoyed the program, I loved working with the people I worked with in my community. They were very helpful in helping me with files, forms and clients. I enjoyed meeting new people, I don’t often meet people who are from different reserves. I really enjoyed working and going to conferences/workshops. This was a wonderful and educational experience.”

Training & Conferences Attended: Assembly of First Nations Youth Summit CEPS Training (Cultural, Economic, Political, Social) First Aid/CPR Training (Standard C) Standing Buffalo Orientation Attended Social Development Advisory Technical Group Meeting

Independent NorthGarvin Garrioch

Cross Lake First NationMentor – Harriet RossGarvin was placed under the supervision of Harriet Ross in the Social Department in his community. Garvin also worked alongside Tracy Mcleod,

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Frances Frogg and Jaqueline Ross. While being employed in the project, Garvin grew extensively in the area of leadership. Since he started, Garvin has taken a much needed leadership role for the youth in his community. He has been working tirelessly to promote healthy living through sports and physical fitness. He has also developed programming for youth to further their understanding around the social issues that plaque our First Nation’s communities. Garvin was also selected to attend various conferences and training initiatives throughout the program. Final Thoughts from Garvin……..”I really enjoyed the program-Community Active Measures. It was overall, an outstanding experience. It exceeded my expectations as a CAM Rep. I have met a lot of great people along the way that I won’t forget in the long run. My job experience with SCTC was very good and the people were easy and fun to work with. I truly thought I would never have this kind of experience that the program had to offer. The program gave me an outlook on what I want to do for my community and it made me want to better my community for years to come because I love the place I come from and the people. I hope the next CAM Reps do an outstanding job the best they could. And to my fellow CAM Reps along the way I wish you all the best.”

Training & Conferences Attended: Assembly of First Nations Youth Summit CEPS Training (Cultural, Economic, Political, Social) First Aid/CPR Training (Standard C) Standing Buffalo Orientation Gathering our Voices 2014 Aboriginal Community Warrior Training

RECOMMENDATIONS

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To effectively create long term benefits, highly suggest that the project seek into running year round as opposed to 6 month term

Communicating effectively from all parties involved and what roles each party has

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