By Tricia Thomas

Tsawwassen First Nation were given a kick-start for future success in the job market, thanks to a summer youth program.

High school students were given onthe- job paid work experience, training and mentoring opportunities along with letters of reference when the program ended. They were also involved in the nation’s cultural events.

Participants received hands-on training on motorized equipment, power tool certification and occupational first aid. Learning about heritage resources and cultural history were included in the mentoring activities. One example was a Coast Salish paddle-making workshop with T’Sou-ke First Nation artist Mark Gauti, who is licensed by the Industry Training Authority and is an environmental consultant.

Students also took part in cultural events, including a canoe journey welcome feast at the longhouse, the First Fish ceremony and work at the nation’s Farm School.

The work experience program was offered through a joint venture between Tsawwassen and Wales McLelland Construction, GardaWorld Protective Services and Matcon Civil Constructors.

A series of projects involving environmental research and development in Tsawwassen territory is currently being planned.

And more: Tsawwasen youth saving species at risk