PRFN Youth Council prepares for inspiring Edmonton Conference

FORT ST. JOHN, B.C. — Prophet River First Nation (PRFN) will send a delegation of youth members to the nationwide Indigenous Youth Rising Conference in Edmonton.

According to a January 13th Facebook post, encouraging PRFN residents to attend the conference will allow youth to “learn, grow, and connect” with Indigenous communities nationwide.

PRFN Youth Council Coordinator Lisa Wolf says conferences like this “sell out fast,” so early planning is necessary.

Wolf says the council has been making “amazing progress” since its founding in October, from signing the oath of office and holding monthly meetings.

“I hope PRFN youth get the chance to network,” said Wolf. “That they get a chance to see what’s out there for them to take a chance at grasping for their futures.”

The annual event has taken place since 2021 and is hosted by Edmonton’s MacEwan University’s kihêw waciston Indigenous Students’ Centre.

This year’s event will feature member of Black Lake Denesuline First Nation Rebecca Strong, who won the 2024 edition of “Canada’s Got Talent.”

She will be joined by actress and Alexis Nakota Sioux member Paulina Alexis, who played Willie Jack on the FX network series Reservation Dogs. Indigenous Educator and Elder Bernie Makokis will also be in attendance.

Fort Nelson, Fort St. John, and PRFN youth members will travel together unless transportation from a parent or guardian is organized for them. 

The event will take place from March 14th to the 15th at MacEwan University in Edmonton.

Registration is online; more information can be found on PRFN’s website.