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(Image Credit: Red Deer Catholic Regional Schools/Supplied)
interactive learning

Indigenous students from local school divisions attend Inspiring Success Youth Conference

May 28, 2026 | 1:24 PM

Hundreds of Grade 8 Indigenous students from across central Alberta attended the annual Inspiring Indigenous Youth Success Conference at RDP.

The one-day conference took place on Wednesday, May 27, where the students were able to interact with local exhibitors, immerse themselves in cultural traditions, and participate in interactive learning sessions designed to foster leadership and cultural pride.

Throughout the day, students took part in dynamic interactive workshops, as well as enjoyed authentic, traditional Indigenous cuisine and walked away with a variety of swag and prizes.

“The transition between middle school and high school is an exciting time for our students, and it is a chance for us to prepare them for the career connections high school will provide. Our Indigenous students have a wealth of culture, traditions, and ways of knowing that can support their journey. Experiences like these help provide valuable cultural experiences, open students’ eyes to exciting possibilities, and set them up for bright futures,” said Dr. Ryan Sawula, Superintendent of Schools, Chinook’s Edge School Division.

The event underscored a collective commitment to supporting Indigenous youth as they transition into their high school years and beyond.

The conference was made possible through a partnership between local school divisions, community organizations, and post-secondary institutions.

“This conference has been an inspiring journey for our students. It’s essential for us to provide these immersive learning environments where students can truly engage with and appreciate the profound depth of Indigenous cultures. We are committed to supporting our students’ understanding and respect for these traditions, which are an integral part of our community’s fabric,” said Jonathan Mauro, Indigenous Education Coordinator with Indigenous Education Services at Red Deer Catholic Regional Schools

“Indigenous Initiatives is happy to be part of an event that brings our youth and community together to connect and share in culture. We are grateful to be part of a committee that works hard to make sure our Youth can have these opportunities,” said Tyra Hercina, Indigenous Learning Designer and Scholar with Center of Teaching, Learning and Scholarship / Indigenous Initiatives at RDP.

“Events like the Inspiring Indigenous Youth Success Conference create meaningful opportunities to see themselves reflected in their culture, their community and their future,” said Hayley Christen, Learning Services Coordinator with Red Deer Public Schools. ”By bringing together Indigenous youth, community leaders, educators and post-secondary partners, we are helping students build confidence, strengthen connections and recognize the pathways available to them as they move into high school and beyond.”

“Events like the Inspiring Indigenous Youth Success Conference are incredibly important because they create space for Indigenous students to see themselves reflected, celebrated, and supported,” said Shelagh Hagemann, Wolf Creek Public Schools, Director of Indigenous Education and Reconciliation. “When students are able to connect with culture, community, and positive role models, it strengthens not only their sense of identity and belonging, but also their confidence in the future they are building for themselves. This conference represents the ongoing commitment of our schools, partners, and communities to honour, preserve, and protect Indigenous cultures, voices, and ways of knowing for the next generation.”

“At STAR Catholic, we are proud to support our Indigenous Grade 8 students in connecting with culture and community through the Inspiring Success Indigenous Youth Conference.” said Natalie Bear, STAR Committee representative and Vice Principal at Sacred Heart School in Wetaskiwin. “Through the Inspiring Success Indigenous Youth Conference, our Indigenous Jr. High students are provided with meaningful opportunities to connect with culture, learn from Elders and Knowledge Keepers, and strengthen their sense of identity, belonging, and pride.”