Northern Youth Leadership recently completed our first Youth COLD Forum. In the heart of Denendeh, 13 youth from across the three territories will came together for a transformative journey at the Youth "Connecting On the Land in Denendeh" (COLD) Forum. This immersive, on-the-land camp took place outside of Yellowknife, offering a safe and supportive space where Indigenous youth, aged 18-25, shared their experiences of climate change and its impacts on their mental health, wellbeing, and relationship with the Land.
Throughout the forum, youth engaged in facilitated discussions, storytelling, and hands-on land-based activities, all while learning vital skills—from traditional activities such as a fire feeding ceremony, smudging, and setting rabbit snares, to diverse storytelling practices like videography, photography, poetry, and journalism. This forum was more than just a gathering—it's was a chance for youth to reconnect with the land, exchange cultural practices and develop leadership skills.
Mentored by experts and supported by Indigenous Knowledge Holders, participants learned storytelling skills throughout the week to later present their unique story, empowering them to share their voice with each other, their community and beyond.
Follow along in our journey below as we share highlights from the Youth "Connecting On the Land in Denendeh" (COLD) Forum! Through photos and reflections, experience the land-based learning, cultural teachings, and storytelling. Scroll down to see our activities, hear our stories, and witness the connections we built along the way!
