Friendship Centre Youth Champion: Jenna Chisholm

Jenna Chisholm - Mi’kmaw Native Friendship Centre

Jenna Chisholm is a 22-year-old Youth Champion from the Mi’kmaw Native Friendship Centre in Halifax, Nova Scotia. Jenna exhibits strong leadership skills, volunteerism, and is a positive role model in her community as a full-time student. Jenna is working towards a Bachelor of Communications and a minor in Canadian Studies and Public Policy. She is also a full-time youth worker at the Mi’kmaw Native Friendship Centre where she organizes additional programming such as day camps, backpack program, and oversees her Friendship Centre’s social media.

During her time off, she volunteers at community dinners and events at the Friendship Centre. She is also the Vice-President of the National Association of Friendship Centres (NAFC) National Aboriginal Youth Council (AYC). Jenna attends conferences and meetings on behalf of the NAFC AYC and sits on the following committees; NAFC National Negotiating Committee and NAFC Constitutional Review Committee; AYC Policy & Procedures Committee and AYC Communications Committee.

When asked about her role as a youth leader in addressing violence against Indigenous women and girls, Jenna stated the need for "A women’s program; creating a men specific program for youth based on culture and vulnerability; Educating our youth on LGBTQ2S issues. Our drum does not discriminate, we allow youth of all gender identities to stand around the drum and sing and learn."

If you know someone who is a Youth Champion or if you want us to highlight a Youth Champion from your Friendship Centre, send us an email!