Innovation Through Arts and Culture

Stardale Women's Group Inc. offers innovative educational programming for Aboriginal girls ages 10 to 17 in Calgary. Stardale realizes the importance of keeping the girls' interest and enthusiasm toward a program that entertains fresh approaches. The after school program combines life skills and literacy with the arts to stimulate group dynamics and personal growth. The Cultural Model framework includes recruiting a wide range of female mentors and recognizing their patterns of understanding. It makes sense of our shared world views with the girls. Emphasis is placed upon social, emotional and intellectual development of the girls. There are numerous opportunities for the girls to work with a myriad of professionals in the arts to learn a variety of modalities. Each year, Stardale endeavours to empower the girls by having them "give back to the community." Thus, the girls get to perform for an audience. The rationale behind the performing is that it increases awareness of the incredible narratives of their lives. Additionally, they become positive role models for other Aboriginal youth through their creative outward expressions.