QFN’s Education and Training department, alongside facilitators from Physical Health Education Canada, hosted a two day workshop on October 28 and 29 for students and educators. The workshop focused on school health from an Indigenous perspective, and was intended to provide information and create feedback toward the development of a social and emotional toolkit for school age youth. This toolkit is a project that QFN continues to work on through the WellAhead Initiative, with a grant provided by the McConnell Foundation.

With newly formed friendships, a better understanding of the community resources available to Western District schools, and a renewed commitment to inclusiveness and continued partnerships, the workshop was a great success. This success was a further testament to the fantastic partnership that has been built between QFN and the Newfoundland and Labrador English School District, whose ongoing support is instrumental in our ability to reach youth.

Many thanks are extended to our facilitators Tricia Zakaria and Ryan Fahey from PHE Canada, our wonderful partners Dr. Antony Card, Dean of Education Mount Saint Vincent University, the Newfoundland and Labradors Teachers Association Special Health Council, Western Health, and our friends at The People of the Dawn Indigenous Friendship Center in Stephenville. Special thanks to Chief Brendan Mitchell and Stephenville Ward Councillor Odelle Pike for sharing your wisdom and welcoming everyone with open arms.