Youth Program
Offering positive life choices, cultural workshops, life skills, empowerment programs, youth resources, and job readiness to youth aged 12-18 years; the Nawican Friendship Centre sincerely believes that restoration of cultural practices will help to resolve the cultural identity crisis experienced by many indigenous youth. All our services, therefore, are culturally based, holistic and integrated. The collective wisdom of Elders, traditional teachers, and staff is used in designing our programs.
Our youth are instrumental in helping to identify the services and programs they need to feel empowered. We teach life skills through hands on experience with cooking classes, resume writing and job search, as well as provide a safe and welcoming environment where youth can gather to hang out and play pool or air hockey and build trust and friendship with other youth as well as our staff and Elders. We offer cultural crafting workshops such as dream catcher, talking stick and drum making, painting and beading, and we stress the importance of families attending and taking part in the crafts to share in these traditional experiences.
YOUTH PROGRAMS
- Drop-in Youth Lounge @ NBYCC
- “Power to Her” Program for Young Women
- Tutoring
- Virtual youth counselling
- School snack program
Counselling gives you tools to help deal with anything that is overwhelming you. It provides new perspectives on challenges you’re facing, and it’s a space where you can express yourself freely without any fear of judgment.
Youth Services at NBYCC
- Individual Counselling
- By appointment
- Group Therapy
- Seminars and workshop
- Volunteer Mentorship
Transportation is available for youth needinga ride within City limits to or from their registered counselling sessions. Guardian consent is required for all youth under the age of 16.
Focus on YOUR Mental Health for female-identifying youth aged 13 to 18
This program takes place on Tuesday and Thursday afternoons over the course of 4 weeks. During each 1.5 hr session, participants will explore their own mental health while learning tools to thrive in self-care, setting boundaries, understanding consent, and supporting self esteem. Other topics include intercultural understanding and empathy for others, drug and alcohol substance use prevention, and the 5 keys of Social and Emotional Learning:
- Self Awareness
- Self Management
- Social Awareness
- Relationship Skills
- Responsible Decision Making
A new session begins each month. To learn more about joining, email youthcouncil@nawican.ca , call NBYCC at (250) 784-0061, or just come to the Centre and ask any Nawican staff.
Please note that youth under 16 will need guardian consent to participate in the Power to Her program.
Supervised Youth Drop-In at NBYCC
When the building is open, the Youth Lounge is available! Youth are expected to check in as they arrive, and check out when they leave. Please be respectful of other youth, volunteers, and staff. Clean up after yourselves, and have fun!
Things to do at the Drop-In Youth Lounge
- Table tennis, football, and air hockey
- Arcade games
- TV with streaming services
- Kitchen and snacks
- Books, board games, and puzzles
- Clothing corner
- Earn and spend Nawican Bucks
- Seasonal outdoor recreation
Ages 12 to 18
The Youth Council is for teens and young adults aged 16-25. The group meets once a month and has a key role in guiding youth programs not only at the Nawican Friendship Centre but also in our wider community.
Gain Leadership Skills
When you’re on the Youth Council, you’ll be an Influencer for the Nawican Friendship Centre and our programs. You’ll represent your community and your peers on the local, regional, and provincial level. Receive training, mentorship, and exclusive access to resources through Friendship Centres and other national projects.
Be a leader. Make new friends. Build Connections.
For more information on how to get started with Youth Council email youthcouncil@nawican.ca or call 250-784-0061 and ask for Matteah.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to be Indigenous to join the Youth Council or Nawican youth programs? No you don’t! We do offer some services that are specifically for Indigenous youth, but most programs are available to anyone.
Can I bring my friends? Absolutely. We just ask that all youth attending programs or using the Drop-In Lounge are respectful of the facility, staff, and other youth.
Do I have to get counselling to come hang out? Nope – only if you would like to have counselling. We are here for you when you need it.
Contact us!
NFC Youth Coordinator: Tara Ray nfcyouth@nawican.ca
NFC Youth Counsellor: Carolina Arango Henao nfcyc@nawican.ca