The annual Paddle 4 Pacific (P4P) fundraiser, organized by Pacific Peoples’ Partnership (PPP), took place on Monday, July 7, at the Brentwood Bay garden of Leonard and Marla Morris.
The event, held in traditional Tsartlip territory, marked the start of the PPP’s fundraising efforts, celebrating its 50th anniversary and new partnerships with Samoa and Vanuatu.
The fundraiser, held in partnership with the Geronimo Canoe Club, featured traditional protocols, a community meal and a ceremonial paddle.
Alicia Deasy, event coordinator, highlighted the importance of sharing Indigenous knowledge between communities, focusing on issues like environmental sustainability and cultural preservation.
Funds raised will support initiatives like the Indigenous Youth Exchange Opportunity and Vanuatu Earthquake Recovery.
A highlight of the evening was the recognition of six youth paddlers from the Geronimo Canoe Club: Joseph Seward, William Morris, Nick Morris, Jacob Seward, Keira Seward, and Alex Morris.
These young athletes have been selected to represent Team Canada at the World Outrigger Distance Championships in Sao Paolo, Brazil this summer.
Their participation underscores the PPP's commitment to supporting Indigenous youth and promoting cultural exchange.
