The Saskatchewan legislative building was taken over by a group of enthusiastic students from some far flung regions of northern Saskatchewan today. They got to take the big chairs and see what it feels like to be a provincial politician.
This is the sixth year for the Youth Mentorship Program where the students learn about education, career opportunities and their own potential. Grade 12 student Mia Thomas is from Cumberland House. She says the tour has given her a new perspective and appreciation.
“It’s amazing, so much to see, so much history,” she says. “And the galleries are really nice, a lot of walking though, going upstairs, going downstairs — but I loved it.”
Thomas plans to continue her education, something many of the students on the youth mentorship tour are considering. Career counsellor Corinne Favel is seeing a different attitude in her students. This is the third year she has participated in the program. She says it is helping the students realize their potential.
“It’s inspiring for me to see that,” she says. “Because that is my vision and that is my art to see our young people to realize how important education is because that means a better life for their kids.”
The students come from Cumberland House, Dillon, La Loche, La Ronge, Hall Lake, Ile a la Crosse, Pelican Narrows, Stanley Mission and Wollaston Lake. They are staying at the University of Regina residence.
They will be heading home tomorrow. The youth mentorship program is a two-day event which includes tours of the University of Regina, the First Nations University, RCMP Depot Division, Government House, the Royal Saskatchewan Museum and the legislative building.