We spent the day at the Ottawa Aboriginal Coalition’s 2026 Children & Youth Pow Wow at the EY Centre. It was a powerful gathering that brought together Indigenous families, youth, and community members to celebrate in spaces where culture lives and grows.
Our day started with a Métis jigging workshop. We spent time with young people learning steps, feeling the rhythm, and building confidence together before stepping into the larger Pow Wow space. These moments matter. They give youth a chance to try something new in a supportive environment and to connect with culture in a way that is active and real.
The youngest sibling of some Junior Jiggers was welcomed into the community at the Baby Welcoming Ceremony. Another Youth4Youth Canada member and Junior Jigger proudly carried the blue Métis flag during Grand Entry. We saw moments of pride when first-time dancers entered the circle. We saw families supporting their children and observed community members and Elders coming together to celebrate culture in a good way.
As part of the Honour Songs, we danced to traditional fiddle tunes alongside our Junior Jiggers. It is important to create spaces for young dancers to gain confidence in a supportive environment. Dancing at important community events with other Indigenous youth reminds us that culture is strongest when it’s shared, practiced, and carried forward by the next generation.
We’re grateful to have been invited to be a part of this day and will continue walking alongside our youth as they grow.
