Kílila Youth Program

The Kílila Program, named after the butterfly (symbolizing transformation in the
Sḵwx̱wú7mesh Nation language), was an initiative focused on retrofitting a cabin at the Cheakamus Centre in October 2024. The program was facilitated through BCIT and the Cheakamus Centre, with support from multiple funding partners.

The project created a hands-on learning environment for Indigenous youth to contribute to constructing and improving the energy sustainability of the cabin’s envelope. In addition to the building work, the project incorporated Indigenous cultural programming, connecting students to modern construction practices and traditional knowledge.

KEY LEARNING HIGHLIGHTS

• Skill Development: The students gained practical skills in constructing an energy-efficient building envelope.
• Energy Sustainability: The cabin was retrofitted with energy-efficient upgrades aimed at reducing its environmental footprint and improving sustainability.
• Cultural Empowerment: The project integrated Indigenous cultural programming, enabling students to blend traditional knowledge with contemporary building practices.
• Collaboration: It fostered a partnership between the Cheakamus Centre, BCIT, Indigenous communities and Elders, and green building professionals.

Indigenous youth from communities across British Columbia and Canada participated in the project, receiving hands-on training in construction and energy efficiency with guidance from cultural leaders, BCIT instructors, and sustainability experts. Students participated in a one-week intensive training at the Cheakamus Centre, highlighting construction and cultural activities, learning about energy-efficient retrofitting, and the cultural significance of sustainable building practices.

THE GOAL OF THE KÍLILA PROGRAM IS TO IMPLEMENT THE FOLLOWING LEARNING OPPORTUNITIES:

• Cultural Involvement: The project incorporated Indigenous professional insight on the construction of the envelope, ensuring cultural relevance and balancing traditional and modern methods.
• Workshops and Hands-On Learning: Students participated in workshops that combined practical training with cultural education.
• Skills Acquired: Students completed the course, gaining valuable knowledge in sustainable construction techniques.
• Energy Efficiency Gains: The cabin’s energy consumption was reduced through the retrofitting process, enhancing its sustainability.
• Cultural and Community Impact: Participants showed increased pride in integrating their cultural heritage with modern building practices, creating lasting benefits for their communities.

The Aboriginal Housing Management Association (AHMA) plays a pivotal role as the program coordinator, ensuring the seamless integration of all aspects of the Kílila Program. AHMA facilitates collaboration between various stakeholders, including BCIT, the Cheakamus Centre, Indigenous communities, and funding partners. Their leadership is instrumental in aligning the program’s goals with the cultural and educational needs of the Indigenous youth, fostering an environment where traditional knowledge and modern sustainability practices can thrive.

This new video showcases the experiences and achievements of the 2024 Kílila Program cohort. The video highlights the students’ transformative journeys, their hands-on learning experiences, and the integration of Indigenous cultural practices with sustainable building techniques. We invite everyone to watch and celebrate the incredible work done by the participants.

The growth from the students’ experiences during this program, both personal and professional, goes beyond the learnings that occurred in October. These teachings and experiences carry forward, empowering Indigenous youth to reach their full potential and support one another through community, building bright futures as a collective.

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