Over 100 Indigenous students from several schools across Bluewater District School Board (BWDSB) visited the BWDSB Education Centre on Thursday, May 4 for an uplifting and empowering day of learning offered by the organization, Turtle Concepts.
Resonating messages at the 2023 Indigenous Student Forum focused on the importance of remaining positive, staying true to yourself, and being proud and confident as Indigenous people. The Turtle Concepts team of six, representing different First Nations communities and generations, shared their personal stories, backgrounds, educational pursuits, and ways in which each of them defied the ‘research’ and statistics, to inspire the Indigenous youth in attendance. In reference to the trendy and positive image projected by the team, the main facilitator remarked how important it was for the emerging generation to "see this version of Indigenous. You don't have to be the old stereotypes."
Part of the discussion involved the team members sharing examples of how they demonstrate kindness to others. These included seeking opportunities to provide compliments, offering to help whenever possible, smiling, supporting elders, reaching out and checking in on people, teaching in a positive way, and leading by example.
The themes of empowerment and celebrating success were brought to the surface many times throughout the day. Students were encouraged to applaud when witnessing confident behaviour in others, to commit to living their best lives through careful planning, and to combat self-doubt. "If you are holding back on your real self, you have to find safer spots." The main facilitator spoke about the importance of being yourself and never allowing others to change you – even if it means replacing so-called friends with others who truly support you.
Regardless of the obstacles and hardships that have historically faced Indigenous communities in Canada, proactive words of reassurance and optimism were shared with the students. “We still have our culture, our medicines, our language. It was kept in a safe place. It wasn't all lost. It is now safer to be your real self.” “Stop being afraid of being healthy."
The afternoon included breakout sessions, where smaller groups of students had a chance to engage in open conversations with Turtle Concept members.
.jpg "Group photo of Turtle Concepts members and BWDSB staff members")