Prophet River First Nation holds youth leadership camp

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Lunch was served at the Prophet River First Nation youth leadership camp this week at the Sikanni River Ranch. (Ed Hitchins, Energeticcity.ca)

SIKANNI RIVER RANCH, B.C. — A northeast B.C. First Nation held a camp aimed at developing the leaders of tomorrow against the backdrop of picturesque mountains and the abundant Sikanni Chief River this week.

Prophet River First Nation (PRFN) held a youth leadership camp at the Sikanni River Ranch starting on August 10th, organized by youth council coordinator Lisa Wolf and members of the PRFN Youth Council.

Wolf said the camp develops skills the youth can use as they mature and reach adulthood. Activities included firearm training and horseback riding, or as Wolf put it, “like army cadets – Indigenous style.”

“[We are] just getting these kids equipped with outdoor safety knowledge,” said Wolf. “[Those who passed firearms tests but are] under 18 will have to wait to be able to apply [for a firearm licence].

“Coming back to the ranch feels like a home away from home. This is where we can just go unwind.”

Firearms training involved proper safety techniques and handling along with a written test, with trips between the Sikanni River Ranch and the nearby Buckinghorse River Lodge.

Each of the participants passed, with one member scoring 98 per cent in the exam.

One of the participants at the camp is Wolf’s son, Silvestrian Wolf Weber.

“I was taught [in] so many ways, I enjoy being outside,” said Wolf Weber. “I’m really enjoying this.”

At the ranch, the participants could play games, watch films or just hang around during downtime. All meals were also provided for participants.

They could also enjoy amenities the ranch had to offer, including a sauna, cold bath, hiking trails and more.

The five-day camp was open to PRFN members between 14 and 29 years old and will wrap up on Friday, August 15th. The event was made possible by sponsorship from Petronas.