Inspiring Change: Youth Circle for Mother Earth

The Youth Circle for Mother Earth (YCME) project supports a cross-cultural network of young Indigenous and non-Indigenous leaders looking to honour their responsibilities and relationships with Mother Earth. Led by a Coordinating Circle, members act as ambassadors for the land, air and waters. This includes the natural world and its conservation, protection, and restoration.
 
This past February, members of the YCME project gathered at the Camp Kawartha Outdoor Education Centre for a retreat with the theme “Looking Back, Looking Forward.” The retreat was an opportunity for Indigenous and non-Indigenous youth and partners to participate in workshops and discussion circles led by Elders and Knowledge Holders, as well as reflect on past accomplishments as a Circle and plan for the coming new year.
 
Winter Retreat 2024: Reflections
 
“The winter retreat was a great experience that opened my eyes to countless new avenues and provided new experiences and connections that have changed the course of my future. In 2024, I am looking forward to assisting and planning workshops with the YCME. During one of the YCME planning sessions at the retreat, members used a workshop planning template to brainstorm ideas about workshops they would like to host. The ideas were all extremely creative and provided opportunities for people to connect and work with nature. Even with the exciting new ideas, the 2024 Youth Summit for Mother Earth, is what I look forward to the most. I can only imagine what we as a group can accomplish this year, how we can help and learn from each other, and what we will bring back to our own communities.”
– Lyla C., YCME Member
 
“I think now, more than ever, it’s critical to have spaces where youth can express their complex climate emotions. So often are our days filled with anxiety over the future and what it will look like. Having a space where we can be open about these emotions while simultaneously fostering hope and resiliency is what allows us to work towards climate action. Being able to participate in the YCME retreat was such a breath of fresh air, having the opportunity to connect with youth who are dedicated to conservation and inspired to take action towards our shared planet has energized me. The opportunity to learn from elders in the region about the land, water and stars, recentered me. Learning from the other members of the YCME who shared their traditions and knowledges with me was truly something I’ll never forget. Leaving this retreat, I feel so beyond grateful for the YCME and its collaborators. I am looking forward to all that comes next. Chi Miigwetch!”
– Rae L., YCME Member
 
“I absolutely adored the retreat we had; it was the highlight of my year. Being a part of the YCME means investing in the environmental future and recognizing the need to return to our roots for the earth and its inhabitants to flourish. Throughout the retreat, I had the opportunity to meet new friends and reconnect with old ones, all while appreciating the beauty of the land. It provided a safe and inviting environment to learn new practices and deepen my connection with my culture. Taking a break from the busy routine of school and work allowed me to reflect on what truly matters, reigniting my passion for living and learning with Mother Earth. Meeting like-minded people was a rewarding experience, and my favourite moment was the constellations discussion, where we sipped cedar tea and delved into discussions about our shared humanity and the interconnectedness of everything on Earth. I eagerly look forward to seeing what else the YCME has in store for the future and strongly recommend this organization to anyone seeking connections with grounded and inspiring individuals, all while making a positive difference here on Mother Earth.”
– Kylee S., YCME Member
 
Interested in joining the YCME Coordinating Circle or nominating a youth? Learn more about the application and nomination process.
 
– Authored by YCME Members

This project is funded in part by the Government of Canada, Ontario Power Generation, the Johansen Larsen Foundation and the Olive Tree Foundation.

​Youth Circle for Mother Earth activities are supported by four partnering organizations: the Indigenous Environmental Institute at Trent University, Plenty Canada, Walpole Island Land Trust, and Ontario Nature.