The participants in the Office of the Treaty Commissioner – Youth in Service had interesting guests at their last Zoom call in August.

The Lieutenant Governor of Saskatchewan Russ Mirasty and his wife Donna Mirasty, joined them to speak about what it is like being the first Indigenous person in the role in the province, and to reflect on what it means to be Indigenous.

“We are a wonderful, beautiful, people and we have a lot to share and I think society in general is starting to see that,” Mirasty said to the youth, telling them to believe in who they are and where they come from.

Stepping into the role of Lieutenant Governor meant being of the forefront of change, he said.

“If you want change within a system, the best way to facilitate that or be a catalyst for change is to be within that system,” Mirasty said. “It’s easy to be outside and … but step inside and commit to being part of the change in some way.”

“I’ve had nothing but tremendous support and that’s from my own community, other First Nation and Indigenous communities, and we’re humbled by that and that took away any doubts for me,” he said.

When His Honour was installed, there it was the first time there was a pipe ceremony at Government House.

“By being in the office it’s been a really great opportunity to introduce different aspects of culture and ceremony to the role.”

Mirasty talked about promoting the value of education and his ongoing support for young people.

“It’s really awesome to hear what you have to say to us as youth,” said Kaileigh Dumont, who is part of the Youth in Service team.

In total, 18 youth and staff from the OTC joined the call to hear and be inspired.

“I feel pride in knowing there is a Lieutenant Governor who is a First Nations individual and takes pride in that identity,” said OTC director of public education Amy Seesequasis.