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To highlight the work Creation Grantees are doing in their communities, the Creation Community Grants Team sends out Q&A forms so they can share their experiences creating and carrying out their projects. Today we are featuring responses from Justin Langan (respondent), Jason, and Caitlin of O’Kanata.
Community: Winnipeg, Manitoba
Grant Type: Partnership Stream – Urban Parks
Q: Tell us about your group and project!
A: The Niihaawin project, which means “leading and leadership” in Ojibwe, is an Indigenous youth-led land stewardship initiative that we led last summer, centered around Assiniboine Park in Winnipeg, Manitoba. Our group is made up of Indigenous youth aged 15-29 who are passionate about reconnecting with our cultural roots, preserving the environment, and making a meaningful impact in the community. The project was designed to engage Indigenous youth in land-based programming and governance activities that promote environmental conservation and cultural preservation. It focuses on five core elements: land-based programming, conservation initiatives, a youth-led stewardship program, consultation and governance, and weekly ceremony and teachings. Each of these components is designed to empower Indigenous youth by providing leadership opportunities, cultural education, and hands-on experiences in environmental stewardship. By actively involving Indigenous youth in the development and conservation of Assiniboine Park, we aim to foster a deeper connection between our community and the land, while also ensuring that our voices are represented in decision-making processes.
“Youth learned so much about traditional medicines and even more about Assiniboine Park, which strengthened their connection to the land! Maarsii for your support!”
Q: As the youth running the project, what impact do you hope it will have?
A: Through the Niihaawin project, I hope to create a lasting impact that goes beyond the immediate outcomes of the initiative. Our primary goal is to empower Indigenous youth by reconnecting them with their cultural heritage and the land, instilling a sense of pride and responsibility for environmental stewardship. By engaging in land-based programming, conservation efforts, and governance activities, we aim to equip participants with the knowledge and skills needed to become leaders in their communities. The project is designed to foster a deeper understanding of our cultural practices and ecological knowledge, ensuring that these traditions are passed down to future generations. Additionally, by involving youth in the development of Assiniboine Park as a National Urban Park, we hope to ensure that Indigenous perspectives are integrated into the park’s governance and management. Ultimately, we want to create a ripple effect that inspires other Indigenous youth to take on leadership roles in their communities, contributing to the broader movement of cultural revitalization and environmental conservation.
Q: What is something you have learned?
A: Leading the Niihaawin project taught me the profound importance of intergenerational learning and the power of youth-led initiatives. One of the most significant lessons I learned was how deeply interconnected our cultural practices are with the land and the environment. Through the guidance of Elders and the participation of the youth, I gained a deeper appreciation for the wisdom that comes from traditional ecological knowledge and how it can be applied to modern conservation efforts. Additionally, I learned the value of collaborative leadership—working closely with park authorities, stakeholders, and community members to ensure that our project aligned with the broader goals of environmental conservation and cultural preservation. This experience also reinforced the importance of providing Indigenous youth with opportunities to lead and make decisions that impact their communities. By giving youth a platform to express their ideas and take on leadership roles, we not only empower them but also ensure that our cultural heritage and environmental resources are protected for future generations.

Q: What is your favourite moment from running your project?
A: My favourite moment from running the project was witnessing the transformation of the youth participants as they embraced their roles as leaders and stewards of the land. One particular moment that stands out was during one of our workshops. As we planted native species and learned about their significance from the Elders, I saw the pride and connection that the youth felt to the land. The moment became even more powerful when one of the youth, who had initially been quiet and reserved, took the initiative to lead a discussion on the importance of preserving these plants for future generations. Seeing their confidence grow and their understanding of their cultural responsibilities deepen was incredibly rewarding. It was a reminder of why this work is so important and how providing opportunities for youth to engage with their culture and environment can lead to profound personal and communal growth.