After nearly two years of disruptions due to the pandemic, the K谩t艂SA国际影视传媒檕deeche First Nation has finally been able to host a grand opening for its long-awaited recreation centre.

On Sept. 18, a number of residents gathered for an afternoon of celebration and a ribbon cutting by local youth Kimberly Martel and Calliegh Sabourin Yakinneah, declaring the new facility open.

Acting CEO Roy Fabian presided over the event, which featured drummers and Elders, while volunteers assisted in organizing the day and provided food.

Brittany Gardiner, Recreation Coordinator for the KSA国际影视传媒檃tlSA国际影视传媒檕deeche First Nation described the grand opening as the culmination of years of effort by residents, KFN staff and the Department of Municipal and Community Affairs (MACA),.

She called the youth centre, which currently boasts air hockey tables, pool tables and lounge areas SA国际影视传媒� SA国际影视传媒渁mazingSA国际影视传媒�.

The centre is conveniently located across from the Chief Sunrise Education Centre. Gardiner said she wants it to be SA国际影视传媒渁 safe, clean environment,SA国际影视传媒� where children and youth can access services and supports to thrive, belong and build community.

A number of services and programs will be available including cultural cooking with youth and Elders. Gardiner added, SA国际影视传媒淲e are trying to get sports on the go and set up to (accommodate) the childrenSA国际影视传媒檚 needs.

We will also be adding computers for the youth to do homework, or to make resumes to apply for jobs.SA国际影视传媒�

When construction on the new facility began last year, it was in the midst of the Covid-19 pandemic, which SA国际影视传媒渟lowed the process down,SA国际影视传媒� said Gardiner. SA国际影视传媒淏ut now that itSA国际影视传媒檚 finished, we are finally able to let the children in to explore.SA国际影视传媒�

The new facility still needs a name, she said, and as itSA国际影视传媒檚 a place for youth, Gardiner said the kids in the community will participate in naming it.

Gardiner, who is new to her role with the K谩t艂SA国际影视传媒檕deeche First Nation, moved to the area in June before SA国际影视传媒渇alling in loveSA国际影视传媒� with its natural beauty and welcoming people.

SA国际影视传媒淚t has been an amazing experience working for the K谩t艂SA国际影视传媒檕deeche community,SA国际影视传媒� she said. SA国际影视传媒淚SA国际影视传媒檓 new to the culture but ISA国际影视传媒檓 all about new learning experiences that are brought to me. Seeing how the Elders keep the culture alive and bring the children and youth into it has been breathtaking.SA国际影视传媒�