By Colleen Flanagan, The Maple Ridge – Pitt Meadows News
It’s all about making students feel included, happy and, most of all, connected with their culture.
That is why Emily Barker-Voisine loves to be a mentor to indigenous youth.
And now the Grade 12 Westview secondary student has been recognized for her work with the Si:yam Cultural Leadership Award, which she received at the recent 12th annual Aboriginal Achievement Awards.
The award is handed out to a student who has demonstrated cultural leadership in their school or community.
Barker-Voisine has been a part of the Westview wrestling team since Grade 9. She was team captain in grades 11 and 12 and does a lot of work as a volunteer coach.
As a mentor, she joins younger students at indigenous events in the district.
Since Grade 10, she has been a volunteer at Ridge Meadows Hospital, as well as at Baillie House, where she organizes games and events for the seniors, serves dinner trays and provides companionship.
But it is providing a space for indigenous youth to reconnect with their culture that is her true passion.