Grounded in culture: a participatory empowerment evaluation of the oskâyak (youth) power program for oskinîkiwak (young men) and napêsisak (boys) at pakitahaw sākahikan iýiniwak (sturgeon lake first nation)

The Oskâyak (Youth) Power Program (YPP) at Pakitahaw Sākahikan Iýiniwak (Sturgeon Lake First Nation) was co-created by and with youth to strengthen <i>miyo-ayāwin</i> (wellness) among <i>oskinîkiwak</i> (young men) and <i>napêsisak</i> (boys). Using a participatory empowerment evaluation grounded in a braided framework of community-based participatory research (CBPR), transformative learning, and ethical space, guided conversations were held with 14 youth supported by Kēhtēyak (Elders) and Kayāsi Kistēyihtamow Kanawēyihcikēw (Traditional Knowledge Keepers). Oskâyak (Youth) described how cultural teachings, land-based activities, and mentorship nurtured confidence, identity, and connection, cultivating hope, belonging, purpose, and meaning. The findings show how Nation-led, strength-based programs grounded in Indigenous knowledge can foster holistic <i>miyo-ayāwin</i>, agency, and community connectedness. The YPP illustrates the power of Indigenous youth-led, culturally grounded approaches to address health inequities while honoring self-determination and Ownership, Control, Access, and Possession (OCAP®) principles.