Last year, more than 18,500 students participated in a variety of programs by Spirit North throughout Canada. Spirit North, a charitable organization dedicated to empowering Indigenous youth through physical activities, collaborates with communities and schools to enhance overall well-being by introducing new sports opportunities.
Founded by Beckie Scott, a two-time Olympic medalist in cross-country skiing of European descent, Spirit North originated a decade after her retirement from competitive skiing. The idea for this non-profit organization was sparked during Scott’s visit to Kikino, a Métis settlement located about 185 kilometers northeast of Edmonton, where she noticed a young boy seeking solace in a cardboard box in the school principal’s office.
Motivated to integrate the boy into group activities, Scott and the principal introduced him to skiing, leading to a transformative moment when he joyfully glided down a hill for the first time, marking the inception of Spirit North’s mission.
In 2024, Spirit North witnessed a leadership transition as Beckie Scott stepped down as CEO, assuming the role of founder, with Gary St. Amand taking the helm. The organization also expanded its focus beyond cross-country skiing to include various sports for Indigenous youth, such as basketball, soccer, mountain biking, and traditional Indigenous games like double ball.
In addition to sports, Spirit North engages in community initiatives like food and clothing drives, Elder gatherings, and annual festivals across the country. The organization experienced significant growth, with Alberta alone witnessing a surge in student participation from 4,451 to 7,326 between the 2023-24 and 2024-25 school years.
Spirit North emphasizes building relationships, fostering inclusivity, and embracing Two-Eyed Seeing, a concept that combines Indigenous knowledge with Western perspectives for mutual benefit. Collaborations with partners like Sun Life and Canadian Tire Jumpstart enable Spirit North to expand its programs and activities tailored to the needs of local communities.
In the Mînî Thnî community of the Stoney Nakoda First Nations in Alberta, Spirit North has positively impacted the youth, encouraging more participation and engagement in outdoor activities. Community members have observed a significant increase in youth involvement, with individuals like Rashaun Powderface, a former participant turned youth leader, and Stktkcxwiłp, an aspiring biathlete, sharing their transformative experiences with Spirit North.
The organization’s impact extends beyond sports, fostering healing, confidence, and cultural pride among Indigenous youth and their families. Through outdoor activities and community engagement, Spirit North continues to make a meaningful difference in the lives of Indigenous communities across Canada.