National Youth Summit Wraps-up in Saskatoon
- EFN Staff | November 21, 2013
First Nations young people from across Canada concluded the Assembly of First Nations (AFN) 4th National Youth Summit today in Saskatoon by setting a five-year action plan for change and progress to address their priorities.
"Youth from all of our territories came together to discuss important priorities in their lives and for the future, such as education, economic development, health, Treaties and supporting our cultures and languages. We are building a plan to move these priorities forward, led by youth and supported by leadership," says Sasha Maracle, AFN National Youth Council Co-Chair.
More than 500 First Nations between the ages of 18 and 35 from across the country gathered in Saskatoon. The three-day summit hosted workshops and panel discussions on priority areas directed by youth. Young leaders from across the country were acknowledged for their success and initiatives to drive change this at the same time it was announced that the 2013 Harmony Award will be presented to the Nishiyuu Walkers, six youth from a small Cree community who walked 1,600-km from northern Quebec to Ottawa to raise awareness of the priorities of First Nations youth and First Nations rights. The Harmony Movement is the leading provider of equity and inclusive education in Ontario.
"I have always said that the young people are not just the leaders of tomorrow they are our leaders right now," says National Chief Shawn Atleo. "The results of this Summit make it clear that they have the energy and
ideas to make progress for all our people and that is truly inspiring.
We look forward to working with the National Youth Council and all our
youth in ensuring
their plans and priorities are integrated into our national action
plans and strategy. We will move forward stronger, together."
The five-year action plan will be released in early 2014 and incorporated into the AFN national agenda. The issues discussed during the summit and as well as the action plan will also be part of the discussions at the upcoming AFN Special Chiefs Assembly in Gatineau, Quebec, taking place December 10 12, 2013.