Date of Workshop: July 24–25, 2017

Coordinator: Amanda Karst

Poplar River First Nation, located on the east side of Lake Winnipeg at the mouth of the Poplar River, is an Ojibwe community with a population of about 1,200. The community, also known as Azaadiwi-ziibing in Ojibwe, spans 3,800 acres and is committed to preserving its pristine environment, including clean water, trees, flora, and fauna. Ojibwe is the primary language spoken, with some use of the Oji-Cree dialect.

During the Youth Visioning Workshop hosted in July 2017, participants expressed a strong connection to their land and natural surroundings. Keanu reflected on how being outdoors with a lacrosse stick helped him connect with the spirits and relieve stress: “Every time I hold the stick, it feels like I’m holding all of the spirits. It also helps me think, take(s) stress off of my mind.”

The community's arena also holds special significance for many, as Thaddeu explained: “The arena is a place where everyone comes together, whether to play sports or just be with friends. It’s a space where you can release stress, push yourself in sports, or simply hang out. It’s full of energy and positivity.”

Youth participants also discussed the challenges they face, including their desire for greater involvement in decision-making. As one youth noted, “I think [Chief and Council] underestimate us as youth, our ideas and what will work...we are the next generation, we want to bring more.”

Although traditional activities remain central to the community's way of life, the youth acknowledged that some of these activities have become more accessible in urban areas, reflecting a complex relationship between tradition and modernization.