Finding Connection Through Rain and Sunshine – Highlights from 2025 Culture Camp
Calgary saw more rain than usual this summer, and Culture Camp 2025 began under grey skies and damp ground. But instead of slowing things down, the rain invited something different. It gave youth a moment to pause, reflect and connect with the land in a new way. When the sun finally broke through, it was met with laughter, energy and a deep sense of gratitude.
Over five days, 27 Indigenous youth came together to learn from Elders, Knowledge Keepers and each other. What started as a rainy welcome quickly turned into a week filled with teachings, connection and moments that will stay with them long after camp ended.
In partnership with the Aboriginal Friendship Centre of Calgary and Miskanawah, Culture Camp creates space for youth to reconnect with Mother Earth and with who they are. Each day blends cultural teachings with outdoor experiences, from ceremony and storytelling to swimming, canoeing and creative activities. It is a balance of learning and joy, tradition and play.
For many, this was their first time participating in Indigenous ceremony. Being away from the city, surrounded by nature and community, opened the door to something deeper. One youth shared that being at camp made their spirit feel lighter, like they could finally breathe and just be themselves.
Returning youth stepped into the week with more confidence, building on what they had learned before. Some received their spirit names, grounding them more fully in their identity and culture. Watching youth grow in this way, becoming more comfortable in who they are, is one of the most powerful parts of the experience.
Relationships are at the centre of everything. Youth connect with one another, with staff and with Elders who share teachings passed down through generations. These connections create a sense of belonging that many youth have not experienced in other spaces.
Without phones or distractions, youth are able to be fully present. They sit around the fire, look up at the night sky and take part in conversations and teachings that invite reflection, healing and growth.
For many Indigenous youth, access to culture and community is not always consistent. Culture Camp helps fill that gap. It creates a space where youth are welcomed for who they are and supported to reconnect with themselves and their culture in ways that feel safe and meaningful.
Growth at camp does not always come in big moments. Sometimes it is quiet and personal. Learning how to smudge, sharing a story or simply feeling a sense of pride in where you come from. These are the moments that stay with youth as they return home with new confidence and connection.
We are grateful to the Elders, Knowledge Keepers and Program Supervisors who bring their wisdom and care to this experience. And most importantly, to the youth who show up with openness, courage and heart.
Thank you for your donation!
Culture Camp is made possible through intention, care and a shared belief that Indigenous Youth deserve spaces rooted in culture, safety and belonging.
We are grateful for the generosity of our donors including the Children’s Aid Foundation of Canada, the Calgary Flames Foundation, TC Energy and TD Ready Commitment, alongside the partnership and guidance of the Aboriginal Friendship Centre of Calgary and Miskanawah. Their support ensures that youth have access to land-based learning, culture teachings and the care of the Elders and community.
