More than 200 Indigenous students in Grades 9 through 12 from across Saskatchewan gathered in Saskatoon this week for a day designed to connect land, food and future opportunity. Hosted by Agriculture in the Classroom Saskatchewan in partnership with Horizon School Division, the Indigenous Youth Gathering: Awakening the Land, Growing Futures took place at the University of Saskatchewan’s College of Agriculture and Bioresources and offered students an immersive introduction to agriculture through both traditional knowledge and modern innovation.
Throughout the one-day event, students took part in interactive breakout sessions, keynote presentations and shared learning experiences focused on plant and soil science, animal agriculture, food production and food sovereignty. The format encouraged participation and reflection while helping students see agriculture not only as an industry, but also as a living relationship between people, place and community wellbeing.
A major highlight was the keynote address by Cadmus Delorme, former Chief of Cowessess First Nation. During his leadership, Cowessess re-entered grain farming and now farms more than 5,000 acres. Now a founder and partner of OneHoop Advisory Services and Flowing River Capital Group, Delorme spoke about reconciliation, Indigenous leadership and the importance of creating practical economic opportunities that are rooted in community values and long-term vision.
"This gathering is about creating meaningful connections between youth, the land and the future of agriculture," said Sara Shymko, executive director of Agriculture in the Classroom Saskatchewan. "For many students, this is their first experience exploring agriculture in a hands-on and culturally relevant way. We want them to see the possibilities, understand the impact and recognize the opportunities for them in shaping the future of food."
The day also featured a keynote session from the Sioux Valley Youth Warriors, an Elder-led welcome, collaborative discussions and small-group learning circles. Bryan McNabb, superintendent of Indigenous education at Horizon School Division, said the gathering created space for students to see their identities and values reflected in food systems and agricultural learning. "This gathering is an opportunity to honour Indigenous knowledge while opening doors to future pathways," he said. "When students see their culture, values and ways of knowing reflected in areas like agriculture and food systems, it strengthens identity and creates space for them to lead in ways that support their communities."
By the close of the gathering, students left with more than new information. Organizers said the event was intended to spark confidence, curiosity and a sense of belonging in Saskatchewan’s agriculture and food sectors. For many participants, the experience reinforced that the future of farming and food systems can be grounded in culture, connected to community and shaped by the next generation of Indigenous leaders.