Reflecting on Still We Rise

Written by Zetta Anderson

With the help of the Youth Mental Health Fund, Ever Active held its first-ever Still We Rise online event on what turned out to be a rather frigid day in mid-February. The intent behind Still We Rise is framed by the desire to inspire, uplift, and empower Indigenous youth through discussing topics such as health, wellness, safety, healing, and culture. The event is projected to reach up to 400 Indigenous youth across Alberta from North to South, and East to West. 

Brought to the spotlight were five incredible speakers and one wonderful elder. Those in attendance felt their impact reach through the screen, spanning hundreds of kilometres across Alberta.

First of all, we thank Elder Jonathan Red Gun for his appearance in beginning our day in a good way through prayer and encouraging words.

Michelle Nieviadomy

To start us off strong, Michelle Nieviadomy of Iskwew Health warmed our hearts and refreshed our spirits with her dazzling energy and wisdom on what it means to practice self-love and care through breath and affirmations. 

Eugene Brave Rock and Sheena Kaine

We then heard from the incredible Eugene Brave Rock, an internationally recognized Indigenous actor whose powerful words reminded us to remember our roots and acknowledge them as a source of power as we move through the world. Alongside Gene was Sheena Kaine, former professional boxer and current self-defence and wellness workshop facilitator, who spoke on the importance of balance in all aspects of our being – spiritual, mental, emotional, and physical.

Apollo Hess

After lunch, we were privileged with the presence of Apollo Hess, Blackfoot Olympian from the Blood Reserve. Apollo captivated our attention, not only with his speaking skills, but also with his story in becoming an Olympian – showing us that success is as much about the struggle as it is about the reward. He represented Canada at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games, placing 5th, becoming the first indigenous person to represent Canada at an Olympic Games in swimming.

Raegan First Rider

Finally, we were eager to welcome Raegan First Rider, a proud Jingle Dress dancer and current holder of the 2026 Calgary Stampede First Nations Princess title. Raegan is from Kainai Nation, and carries her Blackfoot name Isspiitaapoyi, meaning ‘Stands Tall.’ Amongst the many inspiring aspects of Raegan and her story such as her desire to pursue teaching, what stood out to us was the pride and love she consistently expressed towards her family and familial roots – Beautifully role modelling the importance of deeply honoring where we come from.

Some evidence of the impact this event had on participants was captured by quotes in response to the following prompt: “Being a part of Still We Rise helped me…”

In closing, we want to extend a big thank you to everyone who was able to attend the 2026 Still We Rise virtual event, including the participants, speakers, Ever Active staff, and our elder. We are already looking forward to next year!