TakingITGlobal

Sharing Circles by the Sea Reina Starke received a Samuel Connected North Youth Leadership microgrant to offer weekly healing circles focused on acceptance, healing trauma, unconditional love, coping strategies for anxiety and stress, self-expression, and ceremony. In a world where many young people face growing emotional challenges, Reina Starke stands as a guiding light in the Snuneymuxw First Nations community with her initiative, "Sharing Circles by the Sea." As a dedicated Child and Youth Care worker and advocate, Starke leads weekly healing circles designed to help youth navigate trauma, anxiety, and self-expression while fostering positive self-worth. Set against the peaceful backdrop of Vancouver Island, these circles combine cultural ceremony with open discussion, offering a safe space for youth to share experiences, build self-esteem, and develop coping strategies. The approach, rooted in community and cultural connection, helps participants not only address personal struggles but also strengthen communal bonds essential for collective healing and resilience. 20 C O N N E C T E D N O R T H 2 0 2 4 - 2 0 2 5 S E S S I O N M E N U In this session, students will explore and discuss aspects of healthy and unhealthy relationships through interactive group activities. They will learn about boundaries, self love, and relationship red flags. We will also discuss how to have a healthy relationship with Self. Healthy Relationships In this workshop you can expect to learn about the power of self talk, tips and tools for coping with stress and anxiety, such as, breath-work practices, guided meditations, body movement, and insightful journal exercises for self awareness. Coping with Stress and Anxiety Book a session with Reina Reina also offers Self-Love and Sharing Circles 53

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