Saddle Lake Cree Nation is welcoming Indigenous youth, families, leaders and communities from across Canada to the 2026 National Indigenous Youth Conference, September 29 to October 2 at the DoubleTree by Hilton West Edmonton.
With the theme “Youth Empowering Youth” and the call to action “Time to Lock In,” the four-day event will bring together young people with artists, leaders, entrepreneurs, cultural knowledge holders and community advocates to strengthen identity, build connections and inspire the next generation.
Featured guests include Juno Award-winning artist Fawn Wood, Chief Isaiah Swampy-Omeasoo of Samson Cree Nation, Alexie Fastlightning of The Pursuit, Leo and Priscilla McGilvery (Healing Through Song), Joey Taylor, Harlan Kingfisher of Smudge the Blades, and young entrepreneurs Lylah of Candy Craze and Kennedy Bruno of Shirts & Quirks.
Entertainment includes DJ Nyla, with MCs Conway Kootenay, Sage Morin, April Quinney and Bronson Pearson.
Programming will cover healing through song and dance, entrepreneurship, sports, arts, leadership, prevention and cultural connection, plus a fashion show and a West Edmonton Mall field trip.
The conference is open to youth ages 12 to 25, along with chaperones, parents, grandparents, youth workers, social workers, prevention and PMSS staff, leadership and Elders.
The gathering will hold special meaning as it includes September 30, the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, offering space to honour Survivors, remember the children who never returned home, and celebrate Indigenous resilience while looking ahead.
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