Honouring the Past, Investing in the Future: Supporting the Squamish Nation Youth Powwow

Over three vibrant days in July, the Capilano Reserve Park came alive with the sound of drumbeats and jingle dresses. The 2025 Squamish Nation Youth Powwow was more than a celebration, it was a space for intergenerational healing and a powerful expression of Indigenous culture.

The Squamish Nation Youth Powwow honours the legacy of the late Gloria Nahanee, who helped revive the tradition in 1986. Today, it remains a grassroots-led gathering grounded in community values. It welcomes all ages, uplifts youth, and creates space for cultural visibility through music, movement, and shared experience.

This year’s event featured dance competitions, drum circles, early-morning sweat lodge ceremonies, and quiet moments of reflection. The grounds echoed with pride and purpose as young dancers stepped forward, guided by Elders and supported by their families.

As a long-standing partner to the Squamish Nation, Woodfibre LNG was honoured to support this year’s gathering. Our team participated in opening ceremonies, had conversations with community members throughout the weekend and joined in cultural moments with respect and humility.

“Reconciliation isn’t just about acknowledging the past. It’s about investing in the future,” said Luke Schauerte, CEO of Woodfibre LNG, who spoke at the opening of the Grand Entry, a ceremonial procession that marks the official start of the Powwow and welcomes all dancers into the arena. “We believe economic reconciliation includes creating opportunities for Indigenous youth to thrive, through cultural expression, education, and meaningful employment. Supporting events like the Youth Powwow is part of that commitment.”

At our community booth, team members welcomed visitors with cold drinks and conversation, and had the opportunity to support the Tiny Tots dance by helping organizers distribute prizes to all the young participants.

The Squamish Nation Youth Powwow is a powerful reminder of what it means to stand beside a community, not just in moments of celebration, but in shared effort toward a stronger future.

At Woodfibre LNG, we are proud to walk that path in partnership. Our support for this gathering reflects our broader commitment to Indigenous inclusion, youth empowerment, and a long-term relationship with the Squamish Nation built on trust and mutual respect.