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The THRIVE Program is a community-based summer program that combines the cultural, recreational, and wellness activities of the FUN Program with the education, mentorship, and career exploration of the LEARN Program.

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The program is hosted directly within participating Indigenous communities, allowing youth to learn and grow while remaining connected to their families, culture, and community supports. Instead of bringing youth away from home, the THRIVE team travels to the community and works with local leaders, Elders, Knowledge Keepers, organizations, and volunteers to create a program that reflects the needs and priorities of the community.

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THRIVE is designed to help Indigenous youth build confidence, strengthen cultural identity, develop leadership skills, and explore future education and career opportunities.

Participants take part in a mix of cultural activities, land-based learning, mental wellness programming, sports, arts, academic workshops, leadership activities, career mentorship, and hands-on learning.

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Activities may include traditional storytelling, drumming, medicine walks, sports, art activities, science and technology workshops, team-building games, guest speakers, career exploration, leadership sessions, and information about college, university, trades, and other post-secondary pathways.

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Through these activities, youth are encouraged to discover their strengths, build meaningful relationships, learn more about future opportunities, and feel confident in making decisions about their education and careers.

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The program is led and supported by Indigenous students, volunteers, Elders, Knowledge Keepers, educators, student-athletes, community members, and industry professionals. These mentors provide participants with positive role models and opportunities to learn from people with a wide range of experiences.

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THRIVE is more than a summer program. It brings culture, education, mentorship, wellness, and community together to help Indigenous youth develop the skills and confidence they need to succeed while staying connected to who they are.

THRIVE Program

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Who the Program Is For

The THRIVE Program is designed for Indigenous youth who want to strengthen their cultural connection while exploring education, leadership, and future career opportunities.

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The program welcomes First Nations, Inuit, and Métis youth from the participating community.

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THRIVE is especially suited for youth who are beginning to think about their future and want opportunities to learn new skills, meet mentors, explore careers, and better understand their education options.

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Community-Based Experience

The program is delivered directly within the participating Indigenous community. Activities are hosted in partnership with local leaders, organizations, families, Elders, and Knowledge Keepers.

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Program activities may take place in community centres, schools, recreation facilities, cultural spaces, outdoor areas, and other locations selected in partnership with the community.

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By hosting the program locally, youth can participate in a familiar and culturally supportive environment while remaining close to their families and community.

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Keeping the camp within the community allows participants to learn in a familiar, culturally supportive environment without needing to stay overnight on a college or university campus.

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Activities and Learning

THRIVE combines fun and cultural activities with education, leadership, and career development.

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Indigenous Leadership and Mentorship

The camp is led and supported by Indigenous university students, volunteers, Elders, Knowledge Keepers, and trained facilitators. Indigenous students and volunteers serve as mentors and positive role models, helping participants build confidence and see new possibilities for their education and future.

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Local community involvement is also central to THRIVE. Community leaders and organizations can help shape the activities and learning opportunities so that each program is relevant to the youth and community being served.

Student Requirements

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To participate in the THRIVE Program, students must:

  1. Be under 16 years old at the time of the program.

  2. Identify as Indigenous, including First Nations, Inuit, or Métis youth.

  3. Complete a registration form with accurate personal, emergency contact, health, and dietary information.

  4. Provide permission from a parent or legal guardian to participate in the camp, travel, activities, and overnight university-campus stays.

  5. Be able to participate safely in group activities, including outdoor learning, sports, workshops, cultural activities, and campus tours.

  6. Follow the program’s safety and behaviour expectations, including treating other participants, staff, volunteers, Elders, and Knowledge Keepers with respect.

  7. Respect cultural teachings and activities shared during the program.

  8. Stay with the assigned group and follow staff instructions during travel, campus activities, meals, and overnight stays.

  9. Inform program staff of any medical conditions, allergies, medications, accessibility needs, or other required accommodations before the program begins.

  10. Bring the required clothing and personal items, including comfortable clothing, outdoor footwear, toiletries, medication, and any items listed by the program organizers.

  11. Attend the full program whenever possible, including scheduled activities, meals, workshops, and group sessions.

  12. Avoid bringing prohibited items, including alcohol, cannabis, illegal drugs, weapons, vaping products, or other unsafe materials.

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