A Night of Celebration and Cultural Connection: 2025 Indigenous Graduation Ceremony

Events & Celebrations, Graduation, Student Achievement Jun. 13, 2025

One of the evening's many graduates from Carihi Secondary being applauded into the Big House.

On June 5, 89 Indigenous graduates from across School District 72 were celebrated in a ceremony hosted by the Wei Wai Kum First Nation at the Kwanwatsi Big House.

The evening began with a welcome to the traditional territory and the Kwanwatsi Big House from Chief Christopher Roberts of the Wei Wai Kum Nation. Chief Roberts spoke to the inclusive nature of the gathering and how it honours students from many Nations and territories – giving the Nation’s blessing for the gifting of sashes to Métis graduates as part of the ceremony.

Kwaxiladzi (Shawn Decaire) served as Host Chief for the evening’s gathering, and He’wasa (Jason Wilson) served as Yakindalla, guiding the evening’s events. Graduates were drummed into the Big House by Will Henderson, marking the beginning of a night that blended celebration, tradition, and reflection.

The Liǧʷiɫdax̌w Culture Group performed the Ladies Dance and guests were treated to two additional dances shared by the Knowledge Keepers, drummers, and dancers, further deepening the richness of the evening.

Each graduate was then individually called forward and honoured, presented with cedar headbands crafted by Elder Betty Nicolaye of the Ka:’yu:’k’t’h’/Che:k’tles7et’h’ First Nations and cedar bentwood boxes from Spirit Works. Métis students were also gifted sashes by Jackie Lever of the North Island Métis Association. Together, graduates then joined in the Umlala (Fun) Dance – a joyful and symbolic moment of community and unity.

Following the ceremony, graduates and their families gathered for a reception at Thunderbird Hall. The Indigenous graduation ceremony continues to be a meaningful tribute to student success and cultural pride. Congratulations to all 89 graduates – we celebrate your achievements and bright paths ahead!

Special thanks to the Knowledge Keepers, dancers, drummers, and the Indigenous Education Council for their guidance, and the SD72 Indigenous Education team for organizing another special evening.