Kaylen Duke
CLASS OF 2022
, AGE 24
Kaylen carries a kindness and a calmness that is reflected in all she does.
She is a powerful advocate for Indigenous women and youth, and we are grateful to have her in our community.
YMM: What does community mean to you?
KD: Community is the sense of belonging, living amongst a group of people of all cultures. Inspiring, caring and supporting one another.
YMM: What is the best advice that you ever received?
KD: As harsh as it sounds, you need to do it for yourself. No one else will.
YMM: What accomplishment are you most proud of?
KD: I was interviewed and hired by an inspirational executive director and board of directors, each with their own skills as leaders in the Wood Buffalo area. Becoming a Manager of the Janvier Sekweha Youth Center, I was able to learn and gain experience in running a team of individuals who wholeheartedly care for the youth in our Indigenous community. I had the opportunity to learn from elders, community members and entrepreneurs. I was able to develop programming designed to inspire our youth in our indigenous culture and way of life. To see the children happy in a safe environment running up to hug you with a smile on their faces because they are genuinely happy for all the hard work was so rewarding.
YMM: How would friends and acquaintances describe you?
KD: Friends and family would say I’m headstrong in believing in my own beliefs, I’m driven, and I’m also learning and finding my own path in life. That I take the role of a “mother bear” of those I love and interact with, fearlessly protective and caring. They also see the leader in me and one who cares deeply for her indigenous way of life. That I’m a proud Dene woman who cares deeply for others.
YMM: Who is your hero, and why?
KD: The women in my family. My grandma, my mom and my auntie. They are all been through different struggles and accomplishments. I couldn’t be more proud of all of them and have anyone better to look up to.
YMM: What motivates you?
KD: Being able to work with the land and learn more about my Indigenous culture.
