Career Expo prepares youth for the future

Observer Staff

2/28/2006 12:00:00 AM

The 12th Annual Career Expo provided insight on traditional values and lifelong education opportunities during the Feb. 9 and 10 event.

About 200 attendants were able to speak with 19 college and university representatives, employees from 17 Tribal departments and attend several Native workshops at the Soaring Eagle Resort.

Tours of the Ziibiwing Center of Anishinabe Culture & Lifeways, as well as Central Michigan University took place on Feb. 9 with workshops the following day.

Keynote speaker Knowatsitsawi Wemytewa (Mohawk) spoke on positive lifestyles and the Seven Grandfathers or Teachings, including Nibwaakawin-wisdom, which went hand in hand with the educational component of the occasion.

"Sound judgment," Wemytewa explained. "The ability to teach others what you have learned or experienced. Use good sense and form a good attitude and course of action."

Wemytewa, of Zuni, N.M., is a teacher by trade and a presenter by choice. She conducts trainings related to both personal and professional issues.

The dynamic speaker has a bachelor of arts degree in languages and a masters in adult education.

"The presenters were quite inspirational in helping us to remember who we are and why we are here," said Amber McFarlin of Marshall. "It reminds you that this isn't just a one-time event in gathering college information, but more of a step in the right direction toward future choices."

McFarlin, Kyliegh Newman and their grandmother Linda Cypret-Kilbourne especially enjoyed the Sacred Colors and Directions workshop by George Martin (Lac Courte Orielle Ojibwe Midewewin Society).

"There is so much to take in," Newman added. "It really makes it nice to have all the options in one location and the cultural aspect makes it sort-of a spiritual journey."

Helen Roy (Deer Clan, Wikwemikong, Canada) also spoke to participants on language preservation.

"It's very humbling to have someone fluently speak to you in your Native tongue and only vaguely comprehend or recognize words here and there," said 18-year-old Alisha Stafford.

"With education there is a definite beginning, but the possibilities are endless. You can build in so many directions and to great heights. As long as you continue to learn and strive for more, you can't go wrong."