January: A Month in Review

This month was positively buzzing with excitement for the Stardale girls. The start of a new year, new Stardale programming and new opportunities. In 2023 we are working to grow Stardale to new heights and use our plethora of history and past projects to help the Stardale girls today and beyond.

Before our classes even officially started we welcomed some past Stardale girls to create an extra special project for Stardale (details to be announced soon!). They worked very hard through 2 whole days of filming, interviewing and more to help this project come together!

(Behind the scenes from our video shoot at the Calgary Public Library)

The first class back - New Beginnings

Wednesday, January 11th marked the very first class back after the winter break and we begun our 2023 Stardale season with a Talking Circle. The circle included the sharing of important stories and discussion surrounding “Committing” an original stage play created by the girls of Stardale Women’s group over 20 years ago this year.

New songs and lifted spirits

With classes starting up again the girls were eager to get back to drumming! Many of the girls have returned from last years group so the girls are able to start to learn and explore new songs! They have also started to explore their own personal music tastes and discover new indigenous artists to inspire them.

A mini shopping spree

Some of the girls had the opportunity to update their wardrobes and find some pieces they loved during one of the classes. As part of our program we work to ensure each girl has what she needs to thrive and part of this includes having necessary clothing, supplies and more for school. We often ask for help and donations from our Funders and Partners to make this happen for our girls and ensure they are staying bundled up during the cold Calgary winters. (If you are interested in donating or providing support to Stardale please click here).

The wholesome moment above was captured during yet another Stardale talking circle. As many who have followed Stardale for a while know, our topics are not always light but we strongly believe in providing a supportive and safe environment for the girls to speak, share and listen.

A Stardale Tradition

Bowling has been a long time favourite activity of the Stardale girls and they were seriously psyched to visit Paradise Lanes again for some bowling fun. Of course they had extra fun receiving their unique bowling awards too!

Bringing January to a close

As we approached the end of the month the girls eyes were ever forward and looking to what’s to come this year. Both their drumming classes and regular classes are back to their regular schedule and providing frequent opportunities for them to grow and connect with one-another. There is excitement in the air for our big upcoming projects and lots of work to be done!