Material Gorls

The “Triumph Teens” (or more commonly known as “Material Gorls”) was a targeted program developed for 2023 to 2024. This was an empowerment and self-esteem program for a number of youth to develop and directly improve relationships with their peer group. Through monthly field trips and meetings, the Material Gorls focused on learning self-sufficiency skills such as budgeting and promoting emotional well-being. Progress was noted and gauged through talking circles, specifically planned activities. Individual surveys and reports with members of the “Triumph Teen” program were conducted as well, with the information used to further improve the program and ultimately relationships between the youth and their peer groups. Talking circles allowed for a controlled and mediated environment for group discussions and expressing of individual feelings.

Field trips provided opportunities for youth to share experiences ranging from team building to learning in the context of mutually shared interests. Examples of these field trips with “Triumph Teens” include an escape room activity and visiting MC College.

In the final quarter of 2023, the program moved to transition to focus on intercultural studies.

Starting in the month of March 2024, we had the luxury of having a Knowledge Keeper named Sweetgrass Warrior visit Crystal Kids on a number of different occasions. Donna is familiar with Cree, Lakota Blackfoot and Metis cultural and ceremonial practices. Donna and a number of female youth engaged in the practice of ribbon skirt making. Donna helped the girls design, pick out various fabrics and ribbons, and assisted in the learning of using a sewing machine to hand make these traditional garments. During the time of the ribbon skirt making, Donna shared in some teachings of and the significance of such practices. The youth had an opportunity to also prepare for a sweat lodge, which usually consists of a series of prayers, songs, and other rituals to connect with nature and the creator. The program was completed in Summer of 2024 with a sweat lodge activity in Alexander First Nation.