Spirit of Story: A Digital Multimedia Program for Indigenous Youth in Manitoba

The next generation of local historians will have the opportunity to learn other ways of telling stories through the Spirit of Story program.

It teaches youth and teenagers about film and media production.

“Many of our ancestors kept our traditions alive through storytelling, so I think in this new age of technology, we're keeping it alive and doing it in a modern way,” said Erica Daniels, program officer. co-director and instructor.

“I think just sharing our stories is the way to heal.”

Viola Cameron was a participant in the first “Spirit Story” program four years ago.

“I was really scared at first because it can be overwhelming at first when you see all the cameras and all this big lighting and everything in place,” Cameron recounted.

Cameron says they try to live by the Seven Teachings – guiding principles in Indigenous culture – and the program has helped them embrace humility.

“It's helped me to work with others, to take other people's ideas, and basically to come up with a look or angle that's more beautiful or that I've never thought of before,” said a former participant.

Cameron says they learned to be flexible through the program. They have experienced different roles like directing, acting and writing. Their goal is to learn all the different roles in filmmaking so that they can one day become well-rounded filmmakers.

“It was really fun because I got to see all the different elements of what it's like, not just writing a script. Getting actors for it and basically directing it.”

The now 19-year-old, who was in foster care during the program, says he wants to show others like them that anything is possible.

“As we grow up in care, we feel like we're not allowed to do that,” Cameron explained. “Sometimes we think we will grow up like our parents. Maybe it's not meant for us.

“But I want that guidance, that support, that gives people like me, 'oh, I can do this,'” she says. I just have to believe in myself a little bit.'”

Southern Chiefs serves as a program partner and provides mental health support to its employees and participants. The local Screen Office also provides funding.

Daniels, a Cree and Ojibway filmmaker co-creator, says the program offers a safe space for youth and teens.

“I've seen how this program has benefited so many young people who come through our doors, who are shy when they first come in, and once they're in the program, they really blossom,” Daniels said. “They finally feel like they have an opportunity to share their story and share their voice.”

Applications are invited from local young people and young people aged 16 to 25, including young people in care or care. Applications for the program can be found here Spirit of Story website – a total of 20 participants will be selected.

The program starts at the end of May and will continue until March next year.

This makes Cameron look forward to mentoring new participants next month.

“One day I want to give back to the people growing up in the system,” they said. “I want to give them light, we can do it. Do not do what we are told to do, but do some work.''