In the spring of 2023, we held a Vancouver Session of VYC Kindred, a free 6-week community program that connects newcomers, refugees, and Indigenous youth mentors to learn about Indigenous music. Through the generous guidance and mentorship of Deanna Gestrin (St’at’imc) and Russell Wallace (Lil’wat), VYC Kindred created a community of singers keen to learn more about the traditions and music of this place. In the video that follows, participants share their thoughts and experiences about what they gained during their six weeks together.
Audio and Video recording by Dan Loan
Original song "With Open Arms" by Deanna Gestrin
-------------------------
The VYC Kindred program is supported by the generous funding of Chorus America and Telus Future Friendly Foundation.
VYC Kindred Vancouver 2023 was hosted at Collingwood Neighbourhood House, on the traditional and unceded territory of the Coast Salish peoples, including the territories of the xʷməθkʷəy̓əm (Musqueam), Sḵwx̱wú7mesh Úxwumixw (Squamish), and səl̓ilw̓ətaʔɬ (Tsleil-Waututh) First Nations.