Celebrating Culture and Reconciliation: LaSalle College Vancouver and The Ballantyne Project

From November 12 to 14, 2024, LaSalle College Vancouver proudly partnered with The Ballantyne Project to host a transformative culinary experience for six Indigenous youth and their chaperones as part of the #WeSeeYou Trip 2024. This meaningful collaboration celebrated Indigenous culinary traditions while fostering connection, learning, and cultural appreciation.

A Culinary Journey Honoring Tradition and Innovation

The week-long program brought participants from three First Nations across Canada into LaSalle’s state-of-the-art kitchens, where they explored the art of cooking and baking under the guidance of our esteemed chefs and faculty:

• Chef Mandy introduced participants to the intricate craft of pastry-making, sparking creativity and precision.
• Chef Julian shared essential knife skills and foundational culinary techniques.
• Chef Robert Clark, along with LaSalle’s Culinary and Bakery faculty, students, and alumni, provided hands-on support and mentorship throughout the week.

This immersive experience combined professional culinary expertise with the richness of Indigenous flavors and traditional recipes, creating a unique platform for cultural exchange and empowerment.

A Celebration of Flavors and Community

The program culminated in a stunning six-course dinner, where participants showcased their culinary creations. Drawing on both Indigenous traditions and newly learned techniques, the meal was a celebration of culture, resilience, and creativity.

Guests, including families, faculty, and supporters, gathered to enjoy this heartfelt feast, which highlighted the talents of these remarkable youth and their deep connection to their cultural heritage.

A Commitment to Reconciliation and Decolonization

At LaSalle College Vancouver, we recognize that fostering reconciliation requires a commitment to honoring and valuing the culture, history, and knowledge of Indigenous peoples.

Our responsibility, as an institution authorized by the Province of British Columbia to grant degrees, is to actively contribute to decolonization efforts by:

• Engaging Indigenous voices: We are proud to have leaders like Dr. Kim Baird, six-term elected Chief of the Tsawwassen First Nation, involved at the Board level. Her insights into Indigenous ways of knowing and governance guide our mission.
• Integrating Indigenous perspectives: Whether renewing existing programs or proposing new ones, we work with local First Nations on whose territory we are located, as well as other Indigenous groups, to ensure our curriculum reflects relevant and meaningful content.
• Teaching newcomers: As a gateway for many newcomers to Canada, LaSalle College Vancouver strives to educate all students on what it means to live, learn, and work on this land. This learning starts with us as an institution.

Empowering Indigenous Youth Through Opportunities

The six participants of the #WeSeeYou Trip were chosen through a competitive application process from over 70 applicants. These young leaders not only showcased exceptional culinary talent but also embodied the spirit of community and resilience.

This initiative reflects our shared commitment to empowering Indigenous youth by creating opportunities to learn, grow, and bring valuable skills back to their communities.

Looking Ahead: Building Bridges Through Education and Collaboration

We are deeply grateful to The Ballantyne Project, led by Dwight Ballantyne, for their visionary leadership and to the sponsors who made this collaboration possible. Together, we are working towards building meaningful connections and fostering a future rooted in reconciliation, inclusivity, and shared understanding.

As Canadians and British Columbians, our collective future depends on a deep understanding of our past. Through partnerships like this, LaSalle College Vancouver reaffirms its commitment to creating an environment where Indigenous voices and cultures are celebrated at every level of our institution.

Learn more about The Ballantyne Project and their inspiring work here.