We have some very special youth in our community so on Monday March 16 we honored two youth who have stood out as future leaders. Over the past year we have been working with families on #2, 3, 4 reserves around respectful relationships and anti-bullying. We have held picnics, hiked, done salmon canning, berry making, anti- bullying workshops at the school and just tried to get families out and engaged with their youth.

During these activities we noticed two youth in particular who were helpful, respectful, proud of their culture and outspoken for the things at need to change to have a safe and healthy community. These youth are Janet Moreno and Shakota Good.

On Monday these two youth were honoured. They were blanketed by Eleanor White and Glen Seward,  under the guidance of Gary Manson, the speaker for the occasion. The Gift of a spirit bead necklace handmade by Ann Seaweed was given to each to remind them of their privilege and their responsibility of being future leaders.

A special prize was offered to those who took part in an anti-bullying questionnaire. The winner of the Fitbit wristband prize was Sue Yelton.

The Good Family performed with powerful drumming and singing for the event and many of the other Elders gave words of wisdom to these youth to encourage and congratulate them in their work and their special status. We know there are many other youth who work every day to make Snuneymuxw a violence free community and who speak out against bullying. Their efforts will not go unrecognized.

As a community, let’s notice and recognize when our youth are doing good deeds or when they find their voice to speak out against violence of any kind. This will help us all towards a healthy and safer community.