Students experience ‘life-changing’ land-based learning in Hawaii
This article was published on: April 22nd, 2025
Earlier this year, 12 Niagara College students packed their bags and travelled to Hawaii for a unique land-based learning experience through the College’s Be World Ready (BWR) program.
The BWR trip, Weaving Stories – Reclamation and Restoration of Indigenous Identity, was offered in partnership with the University of Hawaii and encouraged students to explore the reclamation and restoration of identity through shared storytelling, service-based learning, and reciprocity with the Kanaka Maoli, the Indigenous people on the island of Oahu. From working in Hawaiian fishponds, learning about traditional Hawaiian food systems to working alongside Indigenous youth at an organic produce farm, this new BWR experience has had a lasting impact on participants.
Students participated in various learning opportunities with Indigenous community members.
“One thing I was told before going on this trip was how it would change me,” said NC student, Jennifer Taylor. “From the moment we arrived in Hawaii I felt an instant sense of belonging and a deep connection to the land and I knew that I would now see the world differently.”
“This experience has enriched my understanding of Indigenous people and has taught me the power of collaboration and solidarity as I stood alongside those reclaiming their language, land, and identity. Hawaii has opened my mind to new possibilities and ignited a passion for change that will follow me for years.”
Throughout the 10-day trip students participated in various learning opportunities designed to foster a deep connection to the land through a blend of both personal development and hands-on experiences with Indigenous community members.
The trip highlighted land-based learning opportunities that brought together layered concepts, including the importance of language, the geography of stories, land protections and rights, relationality and accountability, a connection to truth and reconciliation, and more.
Leah Hogan, Director, Indigenous Education at NC is proud of the students who travelled to Hawaii on this BWR trip for opening their minds and their hearts to the experience.
“This journey wasn’t easy; it asked us to sit with difficult truths, and to hold space for vulnerability and growth. I personally witnessed our students be within that discomfort, they did so with incredible grace and self-awareness…it was powerful and an honour to walk alongside them”.
The BWR Hawaii experience was a transformative experience grounded in the restorative practice of rebuilding relationships–with each other, with the land, and with themselves.
“Sharing stories, learning from one another, and witnessing the strength of our collective identities reminded us that we are not alone,” said Hogan.
Police Foundations student Emma-Rose Lemkey felt honoured to be selected as a participant for the trip, using it as an opportunity for self-reflection and to re-connect with herself.
“I had an amazing time on this BWR trip,” said Lemkey. “For me, this experience was life changing and I was inspired by the people we met and the connections I made to re-examine my career goals and to further my education.”
This opportunity was partially funded through the Embark Student Foundation and the Indigenous Student Success Pathways Project, and is the first Indigenous-focused trip offered through the Be World Ready program at the College.
For more information on the Be World Ready program and upcoming opportunities, please visit beworldready.ca.