Activate NT: Building the Next Generation of Northern Recreation Leaders

The Northwest Territories Recreation and Parks Association (NWTRPA) hosted the first-ever Activate NT Training Workshop this fall in Yellowknife, and the event was an overwhelming success. Over fifty youth, mentors, and chaperones from communities across the Northwest Territories came together for three days of hands-on learning, leadership development, and connection.

Activate NT is a new initiative designed to support young people who are leading community recreation projects through $5,000 micro-grants, mentorship, and practical training. The program reflects the NWTRPA’s commitment to empowering Northerners to design and deliver meaningful, locally relevant recreation opportunities.

The workshop was filled with energy, collaboration, and creativity. Participants explored the foundations of recreation leadership, learned about calibrated challenge and inclusive program design, practiced financial management and risk planning, and built confidence in areas such as communication, teamwork, and conflict resolution. Sessions were intentionally learner-centered, emphasizing active participation and real-world problem-solving.

Beyond the classroom, the workshop offered opportunities to build relationships, celebrate culture, and share ideas. Participants returned home with concrete tools and significant progress on their project plans, along with a renewed sense of purpose to strengthen recreation in their communities.

The NWTRPA extends its sincere thanks to MakeWay, GNWT MACA, Hotıì ts’eeda, and Canada Service Corps for their partnership and belief in the Activate NT vision. With their support, a new generation of Northern leaders is gaining the skills and confidence to turn great ideas into lasting impact.

Applications for Activate NT Cohort 2 are now open. Learn more and apply at www.nwtrpa.org/activate-nt