Youth Roots: A Substance Use Prevention Gathering

On November 16 and 17, 2022, we hosted Youth Roots: A Substance Use Prevention Gathering in Whitehorse.

About

This event brought together a diverse and exciting mix of professionals from across the territory. This included people working with the Yukon government, Yukon First Nations and community organizations.

The 2-day event covered topics such as understanding the current landscape when it comes to the substance use and health behaviours of our young people.

Presentations

A welcome message, opening prayer and introductory remarks.

Clayton Thomas-Muller, Author/Activist

Moving Through and Healing from the Violence of Colonialism

Ian Parker and Jennifer Gibson, Department of Health and Social Services, Health Promotion Unit

Setting the Context: What are we talking about? What have youth told us about their health behaviours and experiences?

Florence Bergeron, The Students Commissions of Canada

The Blueprint for Action: Preventing Substance-Related Harms Among Youth

Dr. Ingibjörg Eva Pórisdóttir, Planet Youth

Prevention is Possible: The Planet Youth Guidance Program

Yvonne Jack, Tosh Southwick, Randell Tetlichi and Cass Ivany

Reflections from Day One

Elders and Junior First Nations Education Advocates Panel

Protective Factors Across the Generations

Joe Zucchiatti (Skate for Life Alliance), Isabelle Piche (Haines Junction Boys and Girls Club of Yukon) and Lindsay Johnston (Recreation and Parks Association of Yukon)

Building Positive and Inclusive Youth Spaces: Social and Physical Environments

Marshal Johnson (Yukon Hospitals’ First Nations Health Programs), Alyssa Carpenter (Western Arctic Youth Collective) and Yvonne Jack (Knowledge Keeper)

Reconciliation and Position Youth Development

Nat Thievierge (Yukon Workers Compensation Health and Safety Board) and Alexandra Inglis (Kamloops-Thompson Health Promoting Schools Coordinator)

Engaging Young Women in Positive Youth Development

The closing circle

The closing circle at Youth Roots: A Substance Use Prevention Gathering.