The Youth4Youth Canada team had the pleasure of performing at the 2026 ISET National Gathering — a national event focused on Indigenous skills, employment training, sharing best practices, and building connections among Indigenous service organizations from all over Canada.
We felt welcomed and supported by everyone we met, making this a truly memorable way to start the new year. There was genuine appreciation for Akina Ohlman's Fancy Shawl dances and for Taliah and Sarina Lyons' Métis Jigging sets. The dance movements were visibly powerful, honouring tradition and audience alike.
After the performances, Akina shared elements of her Fancy Shawl steps while Taliah and Sarina shared a few Métis jigging moves . It was heartwarming to see participants try each step, laugh with each other, and feel the beat together. The room was full of enthusiasm, curiosity, and respect, reflecting the energy and spirit of this gathering.
We were especially touched by the number of people who stopped to thank us for making dance feel accessible and welcoming. For some, it was their first time learning a step from Indigenous dancers; for others, it was a reminder of traditions close to home. That moment of sharing skills and culture was a highlight of our time at ISET, and we left feeling grateful.
Thank you to everyone who invited us to be a part of this experience. Events like this strengthen community and help us carry Indigenous culture forward with pride.
