On Aug. 18, the Driftpile Cree Nation (DCN) back to school career expo brought together students, families, local industry representatives and community service providers.
According to Angela Calliou, executive manager of administration for DCN, approximately 180 students attended the event, while 11 industry representatives and organizations participated by setting up booths. The booths shared information and provided school supplies at no cost to the Nation.
The primary goal of the expo was to ensure local students heading back to school had the supplies they needed for a successful year.
The event was open to students from kindergarten through Grade 12. The goals was to have students leave with a backpack full of school supplies. Thanks to contributions from industry partners and community organizations, that goal became a reality for many families.
Beyond providing supplies, the expo was designed to introduce community members to employment and support opportunities available within the community and through local industry partners.
“It was just a moment for people to get to know what programs were available on the Nation and what job opportunities might be available with associated industry,” Calliou said.
The event also provided information about services available within the community, helping families learn about resources that can support students throughout the school year.
The expo also featured a free barbecue and door prizes.
Businesses and organizations were eager to be involved, Calliou said, and many were grateful for the opportunity to connect directly with students and families.
The response from the community was equally positive.
“We had great feedback from community members, parents and industry participants,” Calliou said.
That encouragement has already inspired plans for the future.
This year’s expo marked the first event of its kind for DCN, but Calliou intends to make it an annual tradition. Looking ahead, Calliou hopes the expo will continue to grow and eventually move outdoors, creating space for additional activities, participants and attractions.
For Calliou, the strong turnout and positive feedback demonstrated that the event met an important need within the community.
Sara Driedger
Lakeside Leader