WELLNESS GROUP EVENTS
Returning to relationship with land, culture, and one another.
Talaysay Tours: Whoiwhoi
As part of the VIFW Wellness Program, our mentees spent the day with TTalaysay Tours on the cultural and unceded lands of X̱wáýx̱way — also known as Whoiwhoi — a historic village site with deep significance to the Musqueam, Squamish, and Tsleil-WaututhNations.
Together, we learned about plant medicines, listened to stories of place, and reconnected with teachings that have always been here.
Talaysay Tours offers more than knowledge — it’s an invitation to return to relationship with land, culture, and one another.
Takaya Day on the Water
Thank you to Takaya Tours and our guide Jeff for welcoming our VIFW Youth Wellness Group onto the waters of Tsleil-Waututh territory. It was a powerful and fun day of connection.
We learned history and knowledge of the land, guided by stories, drumming, and singing that brought the shoreline to life.
Talaysay Tours: Lynn Valley Bridge
As part of the VIFW Mentorship Program, we spend the day with Talaysay Tours on the unceded territories of the Musqueam, Squamish, and Tsleil-Waututh Peoples.
We walk the land, learn from it, and reconnect through land-based teachings, stories, and shared meals provided by VIFW and Access Youth Futures.
Ribbon Skirt Making
VIFW and Access new cohort of talented Indigenous students from Blanche Macdonald created their own ribbon skirts—a powerful symbol of identity, resistance, and resurgence—with mentorship from designer and entrepreneur Candice Stevenson.
Ribbon skirts hold deep roots across many Nations. They’ve become vibrant emblems of Indigenous pride, sovereignty, and reclaiming space with every stitch and stride
Drum Painting with Maynard Johnny Jr.
Thank you to Maynard Johnny Jr. Cultural Advisor at VIFW, for leading our Youth Wellness Group in a meaningful Drum Painting Workshop grounded in culture, reflection, and pride.
With every brushstroke, Maynard shares cultural teachings, personal insight, and encouragement. His presence creates a safe space for our youth to explore who they are, connect with their roots, and express themselves through art.
We’re honoured to have his continued support and guidance as we walk alongside the next generation in their journeys of creativity and identity.
Get Involved
Want to know how you can get involved? Check out the many ways you can join the momentum, from new positions to volunteering, event production, and everything in between, there might be a role for you!