Chris Hunsley
Northern News Services

Aklavik (July 04/05) - Aklavik youth found themselves in the bush earlier this month, attempting to rediscover some of their cultural traditions.

"A lot of parents and families don't have the equipment or expertise to go out on the land, so the kids don't have the opportunity to learn land skills," said Shauna Charlie, program manager for the fledgling Aklavik Youth and Family Program.

Funded by the Aboriginal Healing Foundation and Inuvialuit Regional Corporation, the year-old program teaches teens who would otherwise be unable to get out on the land and learn how to survive in the wild.

For the group's first trip of the year, seven youth, accompanied by four hunting guides and chaperons, boated 70 kilometres towards the Arctic coast to set camp near Coney Lake, June 10-12.

"It does a lot for their self esteem," said Charlie, noting that the teens must set up camp, hunt, cook, get water and take care of all their needs. "We try to bring out that lost culture."

Although unsuccessful while at camp, a chance encounter with a caribou during the group's return offered the opportunity for youngsters to learn to prepare and cut meat after a hunt.

"That really builds confidence," said 17-year-old Crystal Koe, who explained she now feels safe she could survive in the woods alone.

With only $15,000 of funding guaranteed for three years, the program can only offer two or three trips a year.

"I think all the kids should do it," said Koe, who feels more money should be allocated for the program.