35 others—qualities that align with the group's purpose and values. For Tymchyshyn, participating in the naming process was both meaningful and educational. “I learned about how much thought and care goes into the naming process and how sacred it really is,” he said. “It was a really good learning opportunity.” The experience deepened studentsʼ connection to the group and reinforced the importance of honouring both culture and community. Using Their Voices Throughout the year, IYL students also had opportunities to share their experiences and perspectives with others. At LRSDʼs Leadership Retreat in October, Tymchyshyn joined a student panel that invited divisional leadership to reflect on Indigenous student experiences in public education. “It was a little nerve-wracking,” he said. “But I had my points, my values, and my intentions. I was proud of myself.” He spoke about the importance of representation and understanding the distinct histories and experiences of First Nations, Métis, and Inuit Peoples. “Indigenous representation is important in every space,” Tymchyshyn said. “Itʼs a respect not only to the people, but to the land that we're on.” He also found opportunities to celebrate and share his identity through other activities, including introducing Qilak, an Indigenous- language choral piece, at a divisional choir performance. “I really enjoy being able to represent myself and my culture in places where they're not typically represented,” he said. Looking Forward Whether through SAB or IYL, students are demonstrating that leadership takes many forms. What unites them is a belief that young people can make a difference. “Iʼve never felt such a sense of community in my heart,” Tymchyshyn said. “Itʼs a really good space to get comfortable with who you are, build community, and be a leader.” For Yuvi, the hope lies in the next generation of student leaders. “Seeing younger students and how much passion they have gives me hope for the future,” he said. Together, their stories reflect the power of student voice in LRSD: students learning, leading, connecting, and helping shape the future of their schools, communities, and beyond. “The Student Advisory Board is a place to learn and grow,” said Singh. “It's also a place to make connections, see the diversity that our division has to offer, and celebrate it.” For Grade 10 student Alvina Nabiha of Dakota Collegiate, the experience on SAB this year reinforced an important lesson about leadership. “Itʼs okay to be a quiet leader,” she said. “So many people don't have that outgoing personality, and thatʼs okay. You can still be yourself in these spaces.” That message is one students hope future members will carry forward. “This group was created so students can have a voice,” said Singh. “If they don't offer you a seat at the table, pull up a folding chair.” Finding Identity, Belonging, and Purpose While SAB focuses on student voice and advocacy, divisional Indigenous Youth Leadership (IYL) provides Indigenous students with opportunities to connect with culture, community, and one another. For Grade 11 student Logan Tymchyshyn of Dakota Collegiate, the program has played a significant role in his personal growth. “Grade 11 has been a big year of reflection for me,” Tymchyshyn said. “IYL has been a really big part of me being able to reflect on who I am.” Logan joined IYL midway through Grade 10 after becoming involved in Dakota Collegiate's Tawâw program. Through monthly divisional gatherings, land-based learning, cultural teachings, and leadership experiences, he found a sense of connection that helped strengthen his understanding of his Métis identity. “Going to IYL really opened my eyes to the community that I was missing out on,” he said. “Itʼs really helped me find my sense of self and my sense of identity.” This year, students in IYL gathered regularly for activities that included beading, drumming, dancing, singing, medicine teachings, land-based learning, and conversations with Elders and Knowledge Keepers. For Logan, some of the most powerful lessons came through everyday moments. “When I was learning beading, I was taught to leave the mistake because it's a spirit bead,” he said. “It shows that not everything is perfect.” Other teachings have carried into his daily life. “I used to think of smudging as just a mental thing,” Tymchyshyn explained. "But I learned it's a spiritual cleanse too. I smudge almost every day now, and it's amazing how one teaching carried over into my day-to-day life at school.” A New Name, a Shared Purpose This year also marked a significant milestone for IYL as Elder Ed Azure gifted IYL a new name: e-winaskochik, meaning groundhog. “I thought it was an amazing experience to be a part of something sacred,” said Riel Ethier, a Grade 10 student from Collège Béliveau. The name represents perseverance, leadership, and helping
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