Fanshawe on the Pow-Wow Trail April 7

The First Nations Centre at Fanshawe College will hold its annual Year End Social Gathering on Wednesday, April 7, 2010.

View the agenda.

The annual event, which is part of a nationally recognized series known as the "pow-wow trail," takes place on the first Wednesday of April every year, and attracts participants from many First Nations groups throughout the region.

Open to all members of the public, the Year End Gathering has been held at Fanshawe since 1999.

Performers in traditional regalia at last year's Gathering

Attended by many people from London and the surrounding area, the Gathering is a traditional social with drums, singers and dancers in regalia, along with food and crafts celebrating the cultural heritage of many Aboriginal students at Fanshawe.

The theme of this year's Year End Gathering is 'Celebrating Student Success,' and the event will feature a showcase of student accomplishments throughout the academic year, as well as a ceremony to honour outstanding students with the presentation of student awards including 'Students of the Month' and 'Student of the Year'.

Young and old alike are welcome!

"The Year End Social Gathering is a day for the Aboriginal community to honour and acknowledge our students," says Donna Smith-Sutherland, Supervisor of Fanshawe's First Nations Centre. "It's also an opportunity for our non-native friends and the College community to observe and participate in cultural dancing and singing, and even sample traditional food."

Eagle Flight performed at Fanshawe's 40th Anniversary celebrations

This year, there will be a hand drum competition and a smoke dance competition, both of which are expected to attract more of the Aboriginal community to Fanshawe than in past years. Special guests Eagle Flight and Oneida Longhouse Singers are scheduled to perform at the Gathering. Craft vendors and Aboriginal organizations will also be on hand promoting their services and resources.