Nîkâniw: Aboriginal Youth Leadership Program

O'Leary Fitness and Leisure Centre (8804 – 132 Ave)
Grand Trunk Fitness and Leisure Centre (13025 112 St)

October – April
Mondays, 4:30-8pm

Nîkânîw combines the cultural teachings and guidance of Aboriginal Elders and Leaders with the instruction of water safety education, first aid, CPR, leadership and life skills. These program areas compliment each other, teaching a respect for Mother Earth, and especially the element of water.

Successful completion of the program can result in certification of Lifeguard and Swim Instructor prerequisite courses: Bronze Medallion, Bronze Cross and Assistant Water Safety Instructor, including volunteer/work experience at City of Edmonton leisure centres. Opportunities to participate in advanced aquatic certifications and other recreational leadership pursuits will be available based on individual interests and skills.

Many participants have gone on to be leaders in the community and to have careers in aquatics.

To Register

Registration is now closed for the 2012-2013 season. Thank you for your interest and we hope to see you next year!

Qualifications

To qualify, candidates must be:

• Of Aboriginal ancestry – First Nations, Métis, Inuit
• Aged 15-22 years old as of the beginning of the program season
• Committed to training in aquatics and/or other leadership areas
• Committed to regularly attending weekly program nights
• Have previous swimming experience

Benefits

Incentives are valued at $1,200!

Participants will receive:

• A monthly Edmonton Public Transit Pass for the duration of enrolment
• A City of Edmonton Leisure Centre Facility Pass for the duration of enrolment
• Program supplies and materials
• Registration fees to advanced aquatics courses
• A light meal each session

Objectives

Nîkânîw means “one who leads the way” in Cree. The Nîkânîw Aboriginal Youth Leadership Program is an opportunity for Aboriginal youth to gain leadership skills that will lead to increased opportunities in the future.

Our objectives are:

• Leadership development and employment opportunities through role models and mentoring
• Aboriginal cultural learning and application
• Physical and mental challenge and risk taking
• Identify support and resources for success

For more information:

Krystin Flierl

Telephone	780-221-7358
Fax	780-496-6910
Email	krystin.flierl@edmonton.ca