Youth on the Land
Youth on the Land works with Indigenous youth to bring stories, skills and traditional knowledge to life. Harvesting skills, cedar weaving, drumming and story-telling are all taught on the land, as well as knowledge of the seasons and the history of the land.
Program Overview
Youth on the Land is an Indigenous-led, land-based learning program that centers Indigenous students and culture. We bring students from surroundings school districts (SD 37, 39, 64, 69, 79), Elders, Knowledge Keepers, and allies onto the land to explore a wide array of Indigenous teachings, ways of knowing, and being. Indigenous students are encouraged and supported to bring a non-Indigenous friend or ally to foster shared learning and mutual respect.
Youth on the Land Team
The Education team at Stqeeye’ Learning Society is a dedicated group of Indigenous youth, Elders, Mentors, and Educators. We believe our program is a sacred space guided by shared values of respect, kindness, inclusion, and care. When we gather in circle and on the land, we do so in a good way to honour each other, our ancestors, and the land.
History and Growth
The program began in 2014 as a dream shared by our late Elder and former board president, his wife and life partner Sulsameethl, and relative Joe Ackerman. Their vision was to return Indigenous youth to the land to explore and celebrate Indigeneity in a safe and welcoming space. Now in its 10th year; the program has expanded t reach students from Qualicum, Vancouver, Victoria, Quw’utsun, and Salt Spring Island. Looking ahead to 2026-2027, we plan to embark on cultural exchange programs with our relations from Australia, New Zealand, and possibly South America.
Recent Engagements
Over the past year, we have hosted diverse groups including SD 64, SD 69, SD 79, Penelakut Tribal school, and professionals from government and corporate sectors. In August 2025, our youth day camp provided an opportunity to pilot a land-based curriculum developed over the last two years. Financially supported by from the Commission for Environmental Cooperation and The Victoria Foundation, this curriculum focuses on Indigenous ways if knowing and being, centred around climate change and mitigation. Guided by our Elder’s Advisory Board, Youth Advisory Board and skilled Indigenous Educator, the curriculum is nearing completion and aims to be accredited by the Ministry of Education.
Academic Collaboration
In Spring 2025, our education team co-created a First Peoples Physiology and Anatomy course with Gulf Island Senior Secondary Vice Principal and Educator Stacy Mitchell. This initiative exceeded expectations in student learning outcomes and engagement. Based on its success, we are developing another course together to launch in Spring 2026 and are exploring further areas of study to expand our educational offerings.
Looking Ahead
As September 2025 concludes, students are settling into their classes and preparing to return to the land in October. The new school year brings exciting new opportunities, including partnerships with new school districts. Youth on the Land will be fully operational throughout the school year, continuing to provide transformative experiences rooted in Indigenous knowledge and community.
Recent Updates
