REEL YOUTH | Tulita NT Films

In Tulita, located in the Sahtu Territory of NT, an engaging filmmaking program was held at Chief Albert Wright School, where students had the opportunity to explore diverse themes through their creative work. This initiative allowed young filmmakers to produce three distinct films, each highlighting important aspects of their community and culture.

The first film focused on the Chief Albert Wright School's girls volleyball team as they prepared for the annual SPIKE IT competition. Students captured the dedication, teamwork, and camaraderie that define the team, showcasing their training routines, challenges, and aspirations as they aimed for victory.

The second film delved into survival skills in the wilderness, where students interviewed local Knowledge Keepers and used that information to create a humourous and informative short about what to do if you find yourself lost on the land. This exploration emphasized the importance of self-reliance, ways to find dry wood, and create a heat source as soon as possible, equipping them with practical skills for thriving in the land they call home.

The third film draws on the stories of the 'Bushman' within the Mountain Dene or tradition, allowing students to connect with their cultural heritage. Through interviews and storytelling, they highlighted the wisdom and experiences of Elders, preserving invaluable narratives that reflect the values and teachings of their ancestors.

This filmmaking program not only fostered creativity and technical skills among the students but also strengthened their ties to community, culture, and tradition. By sharing these stories, the students of Chief Albert Wright School contributed to the preservation of their identity and the celebration of their vibrant heritage.

In our work we strive to embody what we hope to see in the world—a just humanity and
community in which people are free to be themselves fully and without fear. A community where no one is exiled or silenced because of gender, gender expression, race, color, ethnic or national origin, religion, sexual/affectional orientation, age, class, physical character or disability. We believe in the power of storytelling to make connections across difference.