|
Wrap-up of the conference held December 2 – 7, 2006 :
The December 2006 conference had the highest participation to date, drawing 500 participants. The youth participation was admirable, whereby 45 youth participated in the conference.
Participant feedback has been very positive, both during and after the conference. One participant shares, “This conference changed me so much! It made me aware of being a front line worker. It opened new doors for me. I gave a report to my colleagues and shared my experiences with them. Sharing knowledge is very important part of our career. At home, it has also changed me a lot, on how I should be a better mom to my children and grandchildren. My spirituality is also very important in my life to guide my children in a better way, spirituality included”.
Qualified rovers were available to provide guidance and support and a secure avenue for participants during the conference. These rovers were present to facilitate the handling of emotionally difficult moments that may have been triggered by the content of training sessions or workshops. Also, one male and one female traditional spiritual healer were available for individuals requiring specialized individual healing sessions during the conference. Healing and Sharing Circles were formed during the course of the conference as another support tool for participants.
FNISPAQL presented the 2006 Awards and the winners were :
Youth of the year:
- Ms Caitlin Tolley
Youth Community Organization:
- Saputiit Youth Association of Nunavik and Mr Johnathan Epoo
Lifetime Community Committment Honour:
- Kitcisakik Community
Community Worker:
- Mrs Germaine McKenzie
Community co-worker :
- Mrs Alice Echaquan
Caregiver:
- Mrs Sarah Jourdain
Police Officer:
- Mr Gerald McBride et Mr Floyd McBride
Special Honour:
- Inuit Midwives Association
The opening ceremony included a powerful drum ceremony and prayer by an elder. A group of drummers were invited for the Awards Ceremony. The conference was concluded with a concentric circle formation of Passing the Light ceremony, where each participant: elders/leaders, men, women and youth held a candle, lit by each group in turn, ending with each circle facing outward.
All these powerfull moments made the Dialogue for Life IV conference a once in a lifetime event, that will live for a long time in the hearts of those who attended and contributed to the success of the event.
|
