Culture, Craft, and Community:
MNO Summer Youth Program Orientation Week
The Métis Nation of Ontario (MNO) welcomed a new cohort of Summer Youth Program (SYP) Facilitators for a week of cultural learning, hands-on experience, and outdoor adventures. The training, held from May 11–16 in Midland, Ontario, brought together Métis youth from across the province to build pride in their Métis culture and develop leadership skills to support their work with the MNO over the summer.
From the start, youth were immersed in hands-on workshops designed to prepare and empower them for their roles as summer staff. Following Sunday check-in, participants launched into a full Monday lineup that included a Blanket Stitch Workshop, a Dot Art Workshop, and a high-energy music and jigging session led by the Tkaronto Métis Jiggers.
Day two’s activities focused on Métis traditional knowledge and land-based skills. Youth travelled to a trapline in nearby Mactier for a Hunting and Harvesting Workshop led by MNO citizen and Knowledge Holder Jim Tolles, where they engaged in hands-on learning centered on sustainable practices and respectful harvesting.
On Day three, the youth developed essential presentation and facilitation skills in sessions led by MNO staff Michael Smith and Mattingly Ammerata. Later in the day, they took part in Beading, Embroidery, and Fingerweaving workshops guided by MNO citizen and Knowledge Holder Ruth Quesnelle and experienced SYP members.
On Day four, youth participated in an outdoor environmental education experience at Wye Marsh. They learned about the MNO’s Water Monitoring Project, organized by Cassidy Press and her team. The full-day session emphasized Métis stewardship and environmental science, providing participants with practical experience in protecting water and the land.
The MNO extended its thanks to the presenters, knowledge keepers, and mentors who supported Orientation Week. We look forward to seeing the SYP participants apply their skills as they serve Métis communities across Ontario throughout the summer.