Last year, Spirit North engaged more than 18,500 students in its diverse programs throughout Canada. Spirit North is a charitable organization focused on empowering Indigenous youth through physical activities. It collaborates with communities and local schools to promote healthier lifestyles and enhance students’ well-being by introducing new sports opportunities.
Beckie Scott, a two-time Olympic medalist in cross-country skiing, established Spirit North after retiring from competition. The idea came to her while visiting Indigenous communities in northern Alberta, particularly in Kikino, a Métis settlement. A pivotal moment occurred when she witnessed a young boy finding joy in skiing, which inspired her to ensure all students could participate in such activities.
In 2024, Spirit North underwent a leadership transition, with Scott transitioning to a founder role and Gary St. Amand taking over as CEO. The organization expanded its sports offerings beyond cross-country skiing to include basketball, soccer, mountain biking, and Indigenous games like double ball. Additionally, Spirit North initiated food and clothing drives, Elder gatherings, and annual festivals in partnership with local communities.
The non-profit witnessed significant growth from British Columbia to Ontario and the Northwest Territories. In Alberta alone, participation in Spirit North programs increased from 4,451 to 7,326 students between the 2023-24 and 2024-25 school years. Emphasizing community engagement, Scott highlighted the importance of delivering valuable services based on communities’ needs and desires.
Spirit North’s impact report focused on three pillars: relationships, inclusion, and Two-Eyed Seeing, a concept integrating Indigenous and Western knowledge for the benefit of all. Collaborations with partners like Sun Life and Canadian Tire Jumpstart, along with generous donors, enable Spirit North to continue supporting communities and offering diverse activities to youth.
In Mînî Thnî, a Stoney Nakoda First Nations community in Alberta, residents recognized Spirit North’s positive influence on local youth. The organization’s programs have significantly increased youth participation in activities like cross-country skiing, leading to transformative experiences for many, such as Stktkcxwiłp, a young athlete excelling in competitions like the Alberta Cup and the upcoming Alberta Winter Games in biathlon.
The impact of Spirit North extends beyond sports, fostering healing and growth within communities. Participants like Stktkcxwiłp and her mother, Ptâyedu Wiya, have found strength and authenticity through their involvement with Spirit North, breaking cycles and fostering healing within their community. Their experiences exemplify the organization’s meaningful impact on Indigenous youth and families.