The following is a story by Bradley, one of the campers at our 2025 Neechi Camp, August 17-21, 2025 at Ochekwi Sipi Cree Nation, also known as Fisher River, Manitoba.
This was my very first event with YAAY, and going into it, I didn’t really know what to expect. I’m a pretty shy person, so I wasn’t sure how comfortable I’d feel or how much I’d actually enjoy myself. But very quickly, Neechi Camp surprised me in the best way. I ended up having so much fun and came away with such a genuinely lovely experience. Even before the retreat began, I had already made a friend who was also heading to Neechi Camp, which helped ease some of my nerves right from the start. Knowing I wouldn’t be going in completely alone made a big difference, and it gave me a sense of comfort before we even arrived. Over the next few days, the community at Fisher River welcomed us warmly and invited us to visit their Red Turtle Lodge. It was absolutely stunning. Being in that space felt meaningful and grounding, and it added a deeper layer to the experience. Moments like that made Neechi Camp feel like more than just a camp—it felt like a place of connection, learning, and respect. 
We spent our mornings having breakfast at Red Turtle Lodge, talking together and playing activities that helped us connect even more. We also had the chance to meet some of the townsfolk and kids from the community, which made the experience feel welcoming and real. 
Overall, we spent much of the weekend near Red Turtle Lodge, and it quickly became a meaningful gathering place for us. On the first day, we went out on boats led by a man and his son, who are commercial fishers. 
We got to experience fishing with nets; huge nets. 
The ride itself was really cool, being out on the water together and taking in the surroundings. We helped throw the nets out into the lake, and then headed back, where we made Indigenous drums using caribou hide. 
Creating something by hand after being out on the water felt special, and it was a moment I won’t forget. The next day, we went back out onto the water to pull in our nets, and there were so many fish that both teams caught. To pass the time back on land, we continued working on our drums, slowly seeing them come together. 
When supper came around, everyone took part. The Neechi Camp group, townsfolk, and kids all worked together to cut, descale, and cook the fish we had caught. It was such an awesome experience, especially for the younger kids, who were clearly the most excited and eager to help. Being part of that shared effort made the meal feel even more meaningful. 
Later, Indigenous Hoop Dancers came and performed at Turtle Lodge, and even taught us a little. Watching them was incredible—I genuinely felt inspired and wanted to try hoop dancing myself. 
As the last day arrived, we slowly said our goodbyes. Those moments are always the hardest, but I left Neechi Camp feeling changed. The experience encouraged me to take part in more events like this, helped build my confidence, and gave me a sense of joy and connection that I’ll carry with me.
A Story by Bradley, A Neechi Camp 2025 Camper
Photos taken by Twila MacNair. Post created by Nicholas Dube.
This camp was supported by the UCC Vision Fund, UCC Indigenous Ministries and Justice, as well as funds from Fisher River entities.
