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Awakening the land, Growing Futures

Indigenous Youth Gathering to connect students with Saskatchewan agriculture

May 13, 2026 | 12:19 PM

About 200 Indigenous students in Grade 9 to 12 are taking part in a one-day, hands-on event at the University of Saskatchewan focused on land stewardship, food production and career pathways that support farms and rural communities. 

Agriculture in the Classroom Saskatchewan (AITC-SK), in partnership with Horizon School Division, is hosting the Indigenous Youth Gathering: Awakening the Land, Growing Futures to help students explore agriculture careers that support Saskatchewan farms and the wider ag sector. 

Through interactive breakout sessions, keynote presentations and shared learning, students will dig into practical agriculture topics such as soils and plant science, livestock production, food processing and food sovereignty.

AITC-SK executive director Sara Shymko said the gathering is about creating meaningful connections between youth, the land and the future of agriculture.

“For many students, this will be their first experience exploring agriculture in a hands-on and culturally relevant way,” Shymko said. “We want them to see the possibilities, understand the impact and recognize the opportunities for them in shaping the future of food.”  

A highlight of the day will be a keynote address from Cadmus Delorme. During his tenure as chief of Cowessess First Nation, the nation re-entered grain farming and now farms more than 5,000 acres. As founder and partner of OneHoop Advisory Services and Flowing River Capital Group, Delorme is known for work in governance and economic development tied to land-based industries. He will speak about reconciliation, Indigenous leadership and creating opportunities for Indigenous Peoples in agriculture.  

The day will also feature a keynote session from the Sioux Valley Youth Warriors, an elder-led welcome, collaborative discussions and small-group breakout sessions focused on hands-on learning and how agriculture connects to community priorities.  

“This gathering is an opportunity to honour Indigenous knowledge while opening doors to future pathways,” said Bryan McNabb, superintendent of Indigenous education at Horizon School Division. “When students see their culture, values and ways of knowing reflected in areas like agriculture and food systems, it strengthens identity and creates space for them to lead in ways that support their communities.” 

The event is free for students, with transportation and accommodation support available to help make it accessible to participants from across the province. 

alice.mcfarlane@pattisonmedia.com

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