From Roots We Rise: A Youth Gathering

Good Health and Wellbeing

September 16, 2026 — Edmonton, AB

Attend in Person — Watch the Live Broadcast — Watch the Recording

From Roots We Rise: A Youth Gathering Visual

This year’s theme, “Good Health and Wellbeing” is rooted in a traditional view of health that encompasses physical, spiritual, emotional, and mental wellness and finding a balance across all four aspects of wellbeing.

This 2 hour live educational gathering is a highlight of NCTR’s Truth and Reconciliation Week programming and will immerse you in the rich tapestry of Indigenous culture, music, dance, and history while honouring residential school Survivors. It is designed to open a dialogue with young people about the truth of Canada’s residential school system

Students will hear from residential school Survivors and take in performances by Indigenous dancers and singer-songwriters. They will also hear from Elders, change-makers, knowledge-holders and authors.

The Gathering Includes:

Julian Taylor

Neon Dreams

DeeDee Austin

Emma Stevens

Devon Paul

DJ Matty Galaxy

Mimi O’Bonsawin

Drives the Common Man

Stoney Bear Singers

Michael R. Denny

Ivan Flett Memorial Dancers featuring Mikey Harris

Mi’kmaq Dancers led by Jennifer Maloney

How To Participate

2025 Youth Gathering Event

For Teachers & Students (Grades 7-12)

Attend In Person

September 16th – 10:30 am MDT

Experience unity and healing through Indigenous music, dance, and storytelling. Witness our shared history, honour the voices of Survivors, and inspire action toward a harmonious future.

This live educational gathering will take place at the Edmonton EXPO Centre in Edmonton, AB.

2025 Youth Gathering Event shown in a YouTube frame

For Teachers & Students (Grades 1-12)

Watch the LIVE Broadcast

September 16th – 10:30 am MDT

Experience the Youth Gathering LIVE from your home, school, or classroom.

Watch LIVE via YouTube.

Drummer performing during 2025 Youth Gathering

For Teachers & Students (Grades 1-12)

Watch the Recording

A recording of the in-person Youth Gathering where students can experience unity and healing through Indigenous music, dance, and storytelling. 

Available within our Education Portal (login required).

Volunteer in the crowd

Volunteering at From Roots We Rise: A Youth Gathering

September 16th

Are you passionate about youth, education, and reconciliation? We’re looking for dedicated volunteers to help bring From Roots We Rise: A Youth Gathering to life on September 16, 2026, at the Edmonton EXPO Centre in Edmonton, AB.

Need additional information?

Contact: trwday4@nctr.ca

2025 Photos

“The Gifts We Carry”
Me’j Tekweyulkul Kina’matnewe’l wjit teli-Kpma’ltultimk
“We still carry with us the lessons on how to treat one another with the greatest respect”