Experiential Learning Stream
2023 Evaluation Report
Executive Summary
The Experiential Learning stream was one of two Emerging Needs streams offered in 2023. Emerging Needs have a targeted focus and funding goal, based on community needs identified by Creation's Advisory Circle. The Experiential Learning stream focused on funding projects that supported youth in acquiring new knowledge and developing their skillsets by actively participating in practical and hands-on experiences.
All grantees funded through the Experiential Learning stream reported that their project activities strengthened connections to culture and supported Indigenous youth in developing their leadership capacity. Participating in hands-on activities like cultural exchanges, land-based experiences, and arts-based learning equipped youth with new knowledge and skills and opportunities to put them into practice. Most grantees described seeing a significant increase in youth empowerment and youth leadership as a result. This increase in youth empowerment made grantees themselves feel more empowered and that their projects were successful. Communication and flexibility enabled grantees to deliver programming with ongoing and long-term impacts, despite challenges with logistics and scheduling. Projects funded through the Experiential Learning stream supported youth in building stronger connections to land, community and culture; in developing their leadership capacity; and in increasing their sense of empowerment. As a result, grantees said that many of their participants are now stepping into leadership roles, implementing their own programming, and engaging with even more youth, creating a ripple effect with ongoing long-term impacts that can't yet be measured.
Quantitative Results
REGIONAL REPRESENTATION OF GROUPS
7 Indigenous youth-led projects received funding 43% of funded groups were in On-Reserve Communities
“When I was invited to join the Learning Lodge, I was in a tough place, facing some challenges with my mental health. That week out on the land became a new way to practice for my coping with mental health.
Being surrounded by people from my own culture, in a space that felt safe and welcoming, made all the difference. I learned so much not only about traditions, ways of living but also their impact on mental health and holistic healing.
Making art supplies by hand, understanding the ways we use animals we've hunted—it all opened my eyes out about humility and how we all work together in a circle with creation. Seeing wildlife up close, harvesting our own wood for the hides, nature walks to learn about mint, learning to gather birch bark—every experience was a reminder of who I am and where I come from.
This differently opened my eyes into having an interest in how Indigenous people can heal while out on the land. Miigwech - Thank you so much to Indigenous Youth Roots and the Creation Grant for giving me this opportunity.
“
Youth Helper Shkabewis - Indigenous Youth
Housing Navigator, Endaayaan Awejaa
Ray Hookimaw
Quantitative Results % STREAM FUNDING AMOUNT
BY BUDGET ITEM CATEGORY
ProjectSupplies
Honoraria(allothers)
food
Honoraria(Youth)
projectactivities
salaries
$26,000
administration
communications
travel contracts accommodations
Just over $26,000 in funding was used for Food, in the form of snacks and meals for participants, as well as ingredients to prepare community meals and feasts.
28%
28% of funding was used to provide Youth, Elders, and Community Members with Honoraria
Quantitative Results TOP 5 ACTIVITIES
SESSION THEMES
One piece of advice I’d share with other youth is: don’t underestimate your abilities. Imposter syndrome is real, and it’s easy to feel like you’re not experienced enough or that your work isn’t ‘perfect’ enough. There’s a lot of pressure to meet certain standards or expectations, but it’s important to remember that the most impactful work comes from a place of intention, love, and care. Instead of striving for perfection, focus on showing up authentically, and continue to reflect on your journey along the way. When you bring your whole self to the work—heart on your sleeve—people will recognize the value of your contributions and the dedication behind them. It’s not about doing everything flawlessly; it’s about showing up with purpose and learning as you go.
- Advice from Experiential Learning Stream 2023 Grantee “
