Youth & Seniors Gathering – 10 Years of Connection
Posted on: Mar 05, 2026
This year’s Youth & Seniors Gathering marked a significant milestone, celebrating 10 years of bringing Métis Youth and Seniors from across Alberta together for cultural connection, knowledge sharing, relationship building, and community wellness. What began as a small afternoon gathering has grown into a vibrant, action-packed weekend event welcoming more than 400 Youth and Senior Citizens to celebrate Métis culture and community.
The 2026 Gathering was guided by the theme Anisko, meaning connection. This theme invited participants to reflect on how they connect with one another, how they connect across generations, and what it means to connect to their Métis culture. Rooted in kinship and shared experience, Anisko reflects the strength that comes from bringing generations together.
“Our Youth and Seniors Gathering is a powerful reminder that connection is at the heart of Métis identity,” said President Andrea Sandmaier. “For ten years, this gathering has created space for our Elders, Seniors, and Youth to come together to share stories, pass on teachings, as well as build and enhance relationships that strengthen our communities today and for generations to come.”
This year’s keynote address, Aniskohocikan – String of Beads, was delivered by Métis scholar and Otipemisiwak Métis Government Citizen Chelsea Vowel. Her keynote explored the Métis understanding of time as circular, where generations are intricately connected and knowledge flows between past, present, and future—much like beads strung together, each strengthening the whole.
The Gathering was proudly emceed by Rayven Glazebrook and Theresa Majeran, recipients of last year’s Outstanding Youth and Outstanding Senior Awards respectively. Their leadership reflects the mutual respect and shared responsibility that define intergenerational connection within Métis communities.
“This gathering created a space where Youth and Seniors connected in meaningful ways, learning from one another while strengthening pride in who we are as Otipemisiwak Métis Citizens,” said Rebecca Lavallee, Provincial Secretary for Youth, Sport and Gender Equity. “By bringing generations together, we are ensuring our culture, values, and traditions continue to be carried forward.”
“I am glad that seniors are so eager to take the time to gather with our youth and share their experiences, stories and knowledge,” said Kaila Mitchell, Secretary of Health, Wellbeing & Seniors. “This annual event is such a special opportunity for our seniors to share their wisdom with their future generations.”
The Otipemisiwak Métis Government also had an opportunity to celebrate this year’s Outstanding Senior and Youth award recipients. Both recipients were nominated by their fellow Citizens during a month-long nomination period.
Outstanding Youth Recipient: Lyric Jesso
Lyric is a proud Métis Youth who was born and raised in Lac La Biche. At just 19 years old, he has already demonstrated exceptional dedication as a front-line worker in firefighting, forestry, and emergency services. These experiences have shaped his informed and impactful voice in community and policy discussions. Lyric has played an active role in supporting and helping develop initiatives that address key priorities affecting the wellbeing of Métis citizens, including restorative justice, health & wellness, climate change, consultation, and Youth leadership. Through countless hours of volunteer service, Lyric has shown an unwavering commitment to supporting his community. He leads by example, demonstrating maturity beyond his years while remaining approachable, respectful, and inclusive. His leadership style ensures that others feel valued, heard, and encouraged to participate. Lyric truly exemplifies the spirit of community, generosity, and pride that defines Métis identity.
Lyric aspires to pursue a career as a Conservation Biologist and Indigenous Environmental Policy Analyst, continuing his lifelong commitment to protecting the land and uplifting future generations. As a Métis youth advocate, he regularly shares his experiences working in front-line environments, emphasizing the importance of not only hearing youth voices but actively involving youth in decision-making spaces. A strong advocate for youth leadership, Lyric consistently highlights the valuable perspectives that young people bring to the table. Recently appointed to the Métis National Council’s Youth Council, Lyric will continue advocating for meaningful youth representation across all levels of leadership.
Outstanding Senior Recipient: Dan Cardinal
Dan is a deeply respected and dedicated member of the Métis community whose lifelong commitment to language revitalization, inclusion, and youth empowerment has made a lasting impact across generations. His work is rooted in generosity, kindness, and an unwavering belief in the importance of welcoming spaces where culture, language, and community can thrive. Over the past several years, Dan has played a vital role in engaging community through his work teaching Michif in collaborating with the Otipemisiwak Métis Government developing accessible lesson plans and resources. His work in language has empowered Métis Youth to rebuild connections to their identity and carry this knowledge forward.
Dan’s leadership extends into governance and advocacy. He proudly serviced the Métis Nation of Alberta for nine years as Region 1 Vice-President and then Provincial Vice-President. Dan led with integrity, compassion, and inclusivity, consistently uplifting youth voices and creating respectful dialogue. Dan is a visible advocate for the 2SLGBTQQIA+ community, serving as a positive role model within leadership spaces. Known for his warmth and genuine care for others, Dan creates a sense of belonging wherever he goes. Through his cultural teachings, leadership, and commitment to cultural revitalization, Dan exemplifies the values of community, generosity, and cultural pride.
