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The 2013 Power of Vision Conference

Power of Vision

Written by Jonnee-Mae Pedersen, Canadian Red Cross volunteer

	The conference dignitaries enter the room to start the festivities. (c) 2012 J. Keith Howie

"We want our youth to look ahead, see their future and be able to make good decisions."
- Doreen Williams, founder of the Power of Vision Conference.

The Power of Vision conference is rooted in the eagle and east on the Medicine Wheel. The eagle in Aboriginal culture represents gifts. East on the Medicine Wheel signifies new beginnings, like the light of sun on a new day. The goal of the Power of Vision conference was to create this same opportunity for Aboriginal youth.

For the third year, The Canadian Red Cross held this amazing two-day event in Calgary to educate, empower and engage urban Aboriginal youth. More than 100 youth get to take part in discussing issues that affect their generation including: drugs, bullying and alcohol.

	Participants take part in a traditional Round Dance. (c) 2012 J. Keith Howie

In addition to highlighting these important issues, the conference also aims to help youth get in touch with their cultural roots. Youth had the opportunity to learn about the importance of their Aboriginal heritage as Elders and notable speakers – such as motivational storyteller and leadership coach D.J. Eagle Bear Vanas –led participants through workshops, discussions and festivities, including a traditional Round Dance.

"Elders provide us an invaluable resource to help youth relate their heritage to their lives living in a mainstream culture," said Lori Johnstone, Canadian Red Cross Tipi of Courage Coordinator. "Elders are able to demonstrate the significance of traditions like smudging and help it make sense to youth."

The conference focused on the impact of bullying. Participants were empowered to help put an end to bullying, educated on the impact bullying has on everyone, and taught how to define what a healthy relationship looks and feels like. Elders also helped participants understand the traditional methods of dealing with conflict.

	Youth take part in one of the many workshops that targeted bullying, drugs and alcohol, and building healthy relationships. (c) 2012 J. Keith Howie

"The speakers help participants develop their abilities and talents, and teach them about traditional beliefs, roles and responsibilities," said Doreen Williams, founder of the Power of Vision Conference and Aboriginal Programs Coordinator with the Canadian Red Cross. "This helps Aboriginal youth identify with today’s issues in a cultural context."

The Power of Vision Conference continues to be an outstanding resource for Aboriginal youth in Calgary’s city center with the hopes of expanding its program in the years to come.

"I wanted to create this resource to allow youth to have a vision to move into the future and help them understand the information," said Williams.

For more information on the Tipi of Courage or Canadian Red Cross Aboriginal programming, please visit redcross.ca or contact your local Red Cross office.

 

Posted:  March 19, 2013