Local youth on 2,000km Metis canoe trek
On June 15, Heather Bunn from Fergus was one of eight young Métis from across the province who arrived in Cambridge as part of the Métis Nation of Ontario (MNO) Canoe Expedition.
The group started in Ottawa on May 26 on an over 2,000km canoe trek that will end in Thunder Bay on Aug. 22.
In this adventure, the young voyageurs use experiential learning to develop leadership and skills designed to help them in their future careers. During their 90-day trip, participants are dressed in authentic Métis clothing. They will also be visiting Métis communities throughout Ontario where they will promote Métis culture and heritage.
“This is a unique summer job opportunity the MNO is providing,” explained MNO president Gary Lipinski at the launch. “These young people will learn valuable skills that will help them throughout their lives, experience the life of a Métis voyageur and at the same time will teach people across the province about Métis heritage, culture and our contributions to Canada.”
The members of the MNO Canoe Expedition are Métis youth from across the province who are attending post-secondary institutions in the fall or who are recent graduates.
“The MNO puts a priority on providing opportunities to our young people to be all they can be,” stated president Lipinski, “and the MNO Canoe Expedition is another example of the way we support Métis youth.”
The MNO Canoe Expedition arrived at 2pm on June 15 at Riverside Park in Cambridge where it was greeted by local MNO citizens and participated in Métis cultural activities.
