FNUniv Celebrates Culture, Education, and Community at the 39th Annual Treaty 4 Gathering

Students, faculty, and community come together in Fort Qu’Appelle to honour culture, strengthen relationships, and inspire future generations.

Fort Qu’Appelle, SK — September 2025 – The First Nations University of Canada (FNUniv) was honoured to take part in the 39th Annual Treaty 4 Gathering, held September 15–21, 2025, in Fort Qu’Appelle, Saskatchewan.

With this year’s theme, Strengthening Communities, the week-long celebration brought together Elders, Knowledge Keepers, educators, students, and community members from across the region to honour Treaty 4 Territory through ceremony, learning, and connection. The Gathering featured student workshops, cultural presentations, the annual Chief’s Forum, and the highly anticipated Treaty 4 Parade and Traditional Powwow Celebration.

FNUniv’s participation reflected the University’s ongoing commitment to education, community engagement, and cultural pride. Throughout the week, students and faculty were involved in several key activities that celebrated both learning and cultural connection — from leading interactive workshops and inspiring youth through career exploration, to proudly walking together in the Treaty 4 Parade.

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Bringing Treaty Education to Life

On September 16, students from FNUniv’s Indigenous Education course (ESST 215) led classroom-style Treaty Education sessions for visiting Grade 6–12 students. The group developed and delivered Treaty 4-focused lesson plans and hands-on learning activities, connecting educational theory with community-based practice.

The initiative gave students a meaningful opportunity to put their learning into action while engaging youth in understanding Treaty relationships and shared histories. These future educators modelled how classroom learning can be grounded in Indigenous knowledge and experiential education.

FNUniv commends the ESST 215 students and faculty for their leadership and dedication to advancing Treaty Education in respectful and authentic ways.

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Inspiring Future Leaders at the Treaty 4 Career Fair

From September 16–18, FNUniv hosted an interactive recruitment booth at the Treaty 4 Career Fair, located at the Treaty 4 Powwow Grounds. The event brought together hundreds of Grade 6–12 students eager to explore education and career opportunities rooted in Indigenous worldviews.

As the official lunch sponsor, FNUniv staff and Student Ambassadors engaged directly with students, educators, and families — answering questions about academic programs, scholarships, and campus life. The booth showcased FNUniv’s commitment to supporting Indigenous learners from early exploration through post-secondary success.

“The Treaty 4 Career Fair is such an important space to inspire youth and show them what’s possible,” said one FNUniv team member. “Our goal is to help them see themselves here — in a place that celebrates who they are and where they come from.”

FNUniv extends appreciation to the Treaty 4 organizers, volunteers, and partner institutions who helped make the Career Fair a success.

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Students and Community Unite for the Treaty 4 Parade

The Gathering concluded with the Treaty 4 Parade on Saturday, September 20, where FNUniv students, faculty, staff, and alumni proudly represented the University.

Volunteers and Student Ambassadors worked together to build and decorate the FNUniv float, while student dancers in regalia joined the procession — bringing colour, energy, and culture to the streets of Fort Qu’Appelle. The parade was a vibrant display of unity and pride, as community members and Nations came together to celebrate identity and resilience.

“It was so powerful to see everyone come together — students, Elders, and community — all smiling, sharing, and celebrating who we are,” said Audra Cochrane, FNUniv Student Ambassador. “Being part of the parade and helping decorate the float reminded me how important these connections are. It’s about unity, culture, and pride in where we come from.”

FNUniv extends heartfelt thanks to everyone who contributed to the University’s presence during the week — from faculty and students to staff, volunteers, and alumni. The 39th Annual Treaty 4 Gathering served as a reminder of the collective strength that comes from honouring Treaty relationships and walking forward together in the spirit of community and reconciliation.