Supporting Indigenous Youth with Bears’ Lair TV!
We’re incredibly proud to partner with Bears’ Lair TV to support their efforts to feed the spirit of Indigenous business across Canada. Our support is dedicated to their Youth Dream Camp program that empowers Indigenous youth to explore entrepreneurship and their creativity. For 2023, we’re thrilled to sponsor four camps in the First Nations communities that neighbour our Genesee Generating Station.
We can’t wait till the next camp starts!
- TBC | Enoch Cree Nation
- TBC | Alexander First Nation
Supporting youth entrepreneurs at Paul First Nation
In March 2023, we kicked off our series of Bears’ Lair TV Youth Dream Camps at the Wihnemne School on Paul First Nation. 24 youth ages 10-21 came together to learn business fundamentals and explore the world of small business, life as an entrepreneur, and ways to pave their path to self-reliance. Several Capital Power employees volunteered at the camp, including some who joined for all 3 days as team coaches.
“It was a privilege to meet these kids and watch them evolve. Many were quiet and shy on the first day, but through coaching, we safely brought them out of their comfort zone. The experience they gained was inspiring – you could see the wheels turning as they produced and marketed companies. By day three they found their voice and were confident in their ability to do anything they put their mind to!”
– Sue Cardinal, Manager, Community and Indigenous Engagement
After an opening prayer from community Elders, the newly formed teams got down to business. Teams were tasked with creating a business idea that included a logo, budget, core values, and a branding and marketing plan. Ideas started flowing as teams connected their passion for Indigenous community, culture, and skills to their business objectives.
The participants, none of whom had participated in anything like this before, blossomed throughout the week as they practiced public speaking, shared their ideas, and embodied the confidence of seasoned CEO’s. The pride in themselves, their businesses, and their culture reverberated through the evening community celebration, where their video pitches were shared with family, friends, Elders, and proud mentors.
“I was floored by the love, hope and compassion woven into every decision these kids made. It’s a powerful reminder of the importance of listening to our youth, who led from the heart and are guided by their belief that we need to take care of one another.”
– Brittany Smith, Senior Advisor, Internal Communications
After a delicious dinner prepared by a local Indigenous caterer, the videos were shown, and the judges deliberated. All participants received a prize for their inspiring work and the winning team earned an instant confidence boost when everyone in attendance (loudly!) celebrated their achievement. Most importantly, every entrepreneur walked away with a newfound belief in themselves and excitement about what their future holds.
“This camp made kids aware and comfortable with important life skills – kudos to the Bears’ Lair TV team for this initiative. I admire what they’re doing and how great they are at working with youth.”
– Richa Singh, Equity, Diversity and Inclusion Manager
We’re grateful to the Bears’ Lair TV team for their partnership and innovative spirit. Collaboration is critical on the journey of reconciliation, and we’re honoured to work with such caring partners who are making a real difference in Indigenous communities.