Context
As agri-food projects continue to grow in the Atikamekw Nehirowisiw community of Wemotaci, Seskitin Elementary School and Nikanik High School expressed interest in enhancing the food-producing potential of their schoolyards by planting fruit trees and shrubs. Following consultations with teachers and a permaculture expert, food forest plans were created. The initial phases of these food forests were implemented at the start of the school year during workshops led by CISA staff with various student groups.
Another component of the project combined gardening with visual arts through a five-week summer program. Young participants were employed to garden in the mornings and engage in art activities in the afternoons.
Project Objectives
The primary objective of the project was to foster civic engagement among youth in the Atikamekw Nehirowisiw community of Wemotaci by involving them in collective and community gardening initiatives. The project aimed to promote collective learning in agriculture and improve access to fresh food in Wemotaci.
Another key goal was to develop social skills and leadership abilities among Atikamekw youth while enhancing their knowledge, creativity, and practical skills through hands-on participation.