Northern Alberta has definitely been an experience of sorts thus far, and I think I’m already loving it.
Arriving in High Level was definitely very different. It was very rural; something I have very little experience with as an urbanist. Taking in the views of the countryside was definitely an eye opener for me, it was like a different world. Yet, it felt like I had already connected with it. Large highways, dirt roads, vast expanses of greenery and a view like no other; I was breathless in experiencing this new world.
We drove eight and a half hours from Edmonton to High Level, and I am so glad. Taking in the views of the ‘prairieside,’ what Northerners typically do on an everyday basis was amazing. Really embracing the views in a dreamer-like state, I was already enthused!
We arrived in Chateh first, a neighbouring community to mine. It was my first time being on reserve. The community was so tight-knit and close, almost like a family. We had toured the Health Centre and then the school. The school was probably the most beautiful school I have ever seen! Filled with colour and embrace, I could see light in the culture.
We got to attend an assembly where we learned about the vast support first peoples had and the efforts Non-Indigenous people wanted to make to bridge friendships with one another. We also got to see the trailer for an Indigenous film called the Grizzlies. I also got to meet an actor from the film, Emerald MacDonlad!
After leaving Chateh, we were headed for Boyer 164, my community for the Summer. A flood of emotions overtook me as I was excited to beging this new journey, yet nervous to be living alone for four months.
Boyer 164 is a smaller, yet tight-knit community. Everywhere you went, if you waved, people would wave back. It was that close. The community is surround by lot’s of bush, a very different feel for me; gravel roads, greenery and buildings/homes close by to one another.
My role as a Lands and Consultation intern seemed very exciting. We would be surveying the area to find out what lands were significant to the elders, as well as we are planning a community engagement meeting for Beaver First Nation on three important upcoming projects: Green energy, forestry and development.
All in all, I’m ready to take in this Summer and really immerse myself. Stay stunned for more updates!
Until next time, keep dreaming my friends.
-Johnny
Planneresque 