GEMS – Girls, Empowerment, Mentorship, Strengthening.

GEMS is a program held within the Listuguj Community Social Service Directorate (LCSSD.) It is an after-school group for girls aged 9-13. This program is designated to offer mentorship and guidance for young girls in the community.

Carlene Isaac is a Home Support Worker at LCSSD and facilitates the group projects with GEMS. The girls who are registered for this program meet after school every Monday at LCSSD. They work on a variety of different projects such as arts and crafts and self-defense. The program also consists of information sessions on several important topics like bullying, sexual development, dangers of vaping and more.  

In the new year, Isaac would like to incorporate new teachings and cultural aspects to the program, such as beading, the Seven Sacred Teachings, medicines, and more.

In August, the GEMS program held a jingle dress workshop with Listuguj’s own, Cheyenne Isaac-Gloade. All nine girls enrolled in the program completed their dresses with pride.

At the end of the school year, the GEM and PALS (Protecting Ancient Leadership Skills) program at LCSSD went to tree-go in Rimouski.

When it comes to the importance of this program in Listuguj, Isaac said, “GEMS is important to the community because it’s a little group like family for the girls. They all get along when they’re here, and all have a great time. Most importantly, it also teaches them a lot of skills, and knowledge, and culture.”

As of right now, the GEMS program is full, with 10 girls enrolled. If you are interested in more information on GEMS, and upcoming registration opportunities, please contact Carlene Isaac at LCSSD at 418-788-3039 or via email at carlene.isaac@listuguj.ca.

By Ann Marie Jacques