Some 40 photos, the results of Photovoice, a project conceived and funded in partnership among AB Medical Association, Canadian Medical Association, Pediatrics Department of University of Alberta and Nehiyaw Kakeskewina Learning Society in Maskwacis are currently being displayed at the University of Alberta Faculty of Extension after being exhibited earlier in Ermineskin and Wetaskiwin.
Melissa Tremblay, the lead for the project at the U of A end, said the project was aimed at “reframing perceptions” of the Maskwacis youth of their own community.
Under the $40,000 project, 11 youths, ranging in age from 15 to 19 were provided with a digital camera each and they had training sessions with professional photographers.
The youth also had special sessions with the community elders with a view to being encouraged to see the positive aspects of their community.
Natasha Rabbit of the Nehiyaw Kakeskewina Learning Society said during the inauguration of the photo exhibit on Sunday, Nov. 8 that the idea of using photography and involving youth in the effort came about during the discussions on various ways community promotion.
After its tour in Wetaskiwin and Edmonton, the photo exhibit will be on permanent display at the Maskwacis Health Centre.