Last week, youth from across the TCC region gathered at Nankat Liberation and Wellness Center outside of Fairbanks for the Emerging Leaders Youth Summit. The four-day summit combined leadership development, cultural learning, wellness activities, and advocacy training. Participants camped on-site and took part in a variety of hands-on workshops and discussions designed to strengthen their connection to culture, community, and one another.
Youth received CPR and Naloxone training, participated in gun safety education, and joined talking circles with Elders and leaders focused on values, leadership, and community responsibility. Cultural activities included moose hide tanning, fish net making, beadwork, canvas boot making, vest making, plant identification and salve making, fiddle dancing, and traditional dancing.
The summit also provided opportunities for youth to learn about advocacy and civic engagement through sessions focused on hunting and fishing advocacy, Tribal leadership, and Native voting initiatives.
The event culminated in a youth-led discussion where participants identified priorities for the Emerging Leaders program’s advocacy efforts in the coming year. Among the priorities established at the Summit are drug and alcohol abuse, gun safety, language revitalization, suicide prevention, mental health and protecting our land and waters.
By sharing their perspectives, concerns, and ideas, youth helped shape future initiatives and ensured their voices remain at the center of conversations affecting their communities.
TCC extends its gratitude to Native Movement for sharing their beautiful facility with us, and to the presenters, Elders, volunteers, and staff who helped make the summit possible. Most importantly, thank you to the youth participants whose leadership, enthusiasm, and commitment to their communities continue to inspire hope for the future
