The Native Wellness Institute hosted its annual winter Native Youth Leadership Academy (NYLA) and Adults Working with Native Youth training in San Diego December 2 - 5, 2009 at the beautiful Kona Kai Resort. 150 youth and adults gathered from throughout Indian Country to learn new skills, meet new people and enjoy a positive gathering of youth, adults and elders.

"The purpose of the NYLA is to provide our young people with an opportunity to learn, grow, heal, laugh and fill their hearts and minds with positive people, energy and wisdom" stated Robert Johnston, NWI founding board member and lead youth trainer. The training began with a traditional tobacco ceremony to help the young people understand how serious it was for them to step up and take a leadership role. The event featured a cultural sharing night, clan work, traditional games, low ropes course, dinner and dance and presentations from the adults. At the end youth groups were challenged to take their messages of wellness home with them and provide an education session at their school or in their community.

One participant shared: "Thank you from my entire heart. This experience has done so much for me you don't even know. I can't wait to go back and show my cultural pride!"

Both trainings will take place in San Diego the first week of December 2010. We hope to see you there!