Sharon Kabanak, a member of the Kluane First Nation, is dedicated to preserving traditional practices by passing on her knowledge to future generations. Through workshops held at the Thechàl Dhâl’ Visitor Centre near Haines Junction, Yukon, she teaches children, families, and visitors from diverse backgrounds about traditional art and culture.
During a recent workshop, Kabanak instructed participants on crafting necklaces and medicine bags inspired by traditional styles using beads and plastic bone-shaped pieces. Beyond creating tangible items, Kabanak emphasizes the importance of connecting with the land through hands-on activities.
Drawing from teachings passed down by mentors and elders, including her mother, Kabanak stresses the significance of respecting animals and natural materials. She believes in the power of experiential learning, encouraging younger generations to observe and engage in traditional practices to keep the cultural heritage alive.
Kabanak’s approach goes beyond intergenerational knowledge transfer; she views sharing traditional practices as a means of fostering connections with individuals from diverse cultural backgrounds. Participants in her workshops, ranging from researchers to students from Quebec, France, and the United States, have gained a deeper appreciation for the interconnectedness of wildlife, plants, and people in the boreal forest.
Marilou Roy, a master’s student conducting research on wildlife in the Yukon, attests to the transformative impact of learning from Kabanak. By understanding the intricate relationships within ecosystems, Roy has gained a new perspective on her research and the interconnectedness of all elements in nature.
Kabanak’s ultimate goal is to ensure that the knowledge and wisdom shared during her workshops continue to be passed on from one person to another, fostering community connections and a deeper appreciation for the land and its traditions.