As a part of our commitment to the communities we serve, the youth we support, and living into the action of Reconciliation, Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Battlefords has been a founding and coordinating partner of the Innovation Indigenous Arts Partnership Project (IAPP) since it’s humble beginnings as a beading and eating partner program in November 2017.
The Innovation IAPP is a collaborative partnership program for youth, supportive adults, Elders, Knowledge Keepers, and community partners to participate in hands-on learning experiences based in Indigenous art & cultural practices in a group activity setting. It infuses mentoring support through the elements of Developmental Relationships, directly contributing to the empowerment of youth, a space where their curiosities and voices are heard and explored, the development of a strong Circle of Support, and a time where learning and healing combine.
The partnership is guided by the teachings of wahkohtowin (kinship and connection) and tapwewin (truth telling) and embraces the core objectives of providing the opportunity to continue the keep First Nations culture alive within our youth (especially those who live in an urban environment), foster space to develop a sense of pride in Indigenous roots, provide a positive experience and bond in learning culture and art that has been lost among family units, and provide an immersive experience to further Reconciliation efforts in the community at large.
Youth participants also learn new methods for creative expression, tools for mindfulness in its practice, practice critical life skills, and can find healing from previous trauma in participating and learning from the teachings.
Many youth who have attended classes in the past have never had the opportunity to learn these specific skills – often due to lack of teachers, resources, or the cost to participate – or have felt ashamed in having an interest in learning more about traditional and cultural practices and how it would be received by their peers and community at large.
Previous Projects have included:
Ribbon Skirts and Shirts
Hand Drums
Beading
Tipi Rising and Teachings
Dreamcatchers
Pow Wow Day Trips
Ribbon T-shirts and Hoodies
Elk Teeth Jewelry
