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Youth mental health awareness conference unites the community with inspiring voices By Matthias J. Johnson Editor
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On Wednesday, April 9, a youth mental health awareness conference was hosted at Access Communications, bringing together a diverse group of young individuals and attendees. Among those present were youth role models from our region, including the esteemed NHL player Jordin Tootoo, whose influence and experiences resonated with the audience. This conference was not just a standalone event; it was the result of a collaborative effort between multiple organizations, including the Battlefords Agency Tribal Chiefs (BATC), various prevention programs, and the City of North Battleford, all aiming to foster a more inclusive and supportive environment for youth. The driving force behind the conference was a heartfelt message, articulated by Leslie Anne Smith, the BATC Director of Health: “We wanted to bring all the youth together, Indigenous and Non-Indigenous to talk about why we all matter and that you’re never alone!” Smith emphasized the importance of unity and understanding, expressing hope that this event would
Special Guest and Keynote Speaker Jordin Tootoo speaks to the youth while Mayor Kelli Hawtin and Senator Jenny Spyglass look on | Photo By Averil Hall be the first of many future gatherings. She looked forward to next year’s conference, which would highlight a different speaker and introduce additional initiatives designed to equip youth with essential tools to navigate the challenges they face in today’s complex world. “You are Not Alone.” served as a rallying cry for all attendees, focusing on the importance of teaching
youth how to overcome the various struggles life presents. Tootoo, stated that he has always recognized and embraced his role as a mentor and a role model for the younger generation. He spoke candidly about the urgent need to challenge and dismantle the stigma surrounding mental illness, underscoring the importance of increased mental health support within
communities. In honor of his late brother Terence, Tootoo established the Team Tootoo Foundation, an initiative dedicated to providing grants to numerous charities focused on suicide prevention and supporting at-risk youth. His contributions to mental health awareness and advocacy earned him the prestigious Meritorious Service Medal through the Order of Canada in 2016, marking a
significant recognition of his efforts. “It’s always great to be able to share a little about my journey” Tootoo shared, “I, growing up, learned by watching.” We as Indigenous people learn by watching. I struggled in school, but I knew one thing, and something my parents always taught me was that hard work, the will to succeed and a positive attitude Continued on page 6
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