About
In the spirit of ongoing truth and reconciliation with our Indigenous communities, Stirling John Foundation for Youth Empowerment will be conducting youth engagement in the Treaty 6, Treaty 7 and Treaty 8 Indigenous Communities. This initiative is to build relationships and trust between the indigenous communities through music while encouraging the creativity with youth in Indigenous communities in Alberta. This initiative will develop the following skills:
- Leadership
- Relationship Building
- Self-Worth
- Discipline
- Community Awareness
- Creativity
This non-profit initiative meets the calls to action from the TRC report, specifically Section 3.3 and 9.2. We will provide and encourage meaningful connections both internal and external First Nations and Metis governments for lasting relationships. The short and long-term impacts this initiative will have on the community and/or those involved in building broken relationship of the past through the path of reconciliation. Further, address early risk factors among vulnerable populations, including children and youth at risk; fostering family violence prevention; promote awareness about relationship and family violence through elders and members. Assist victims of crime including elders who will lead in the education as to how this healing and collaboration can happen with Indigenous communities.
Stirling John, an indigenous recording artist, and veteran of the Royal Canadian Mounted Police with 16 years of frontline and airside policing experience in Alberta, is eagerly anticipating the launch of his latest project, the Stirling John Foundation for Youth Empowerment Ltd. Throughout his career, Stirling has also been passionately involved in music, and since 2015 he has used his skills and platform to create meaningful songs that highlight important issues such as addiction, human trafficking, and suicide while lifting others' spirits. He has performed across Canada, including Nashville, Tennessee, and was even honored with a sevens teaching Award at the inaugural Okimâw Awards ceremony in November 2022 at Edmonton City Hall.
Stirling has always had a vision of supporting young people in his communities, particularly those who require positive mentorship and leadership, which he has witnessed first-hand in isolated posts, and now, in 2023, Stirling has made those dreams a reality. The not-for-profit organization, the Stirling John Foundation for Youth Empowerment, has been registered with the Alberta Government, and it fulfills specific calls to action from the Truth and Reconciliation Commission Report, especially Sections 3.3 and 9.2.
The Foundation's initial project entails highlighting the talents of two young musicians, Zach Willier from the Sucker Creek First Nation and Bryce Delorme from the Buffalo Lake Metis Settlement.
We believe our YOUTH can embrace who they are,
can define their future, and can change the world.
Who is Stirling John?
With roots coming from the Saugeen First Nation Reserve in Ontario, Inspirational Country Artist Stirling John is now proud to call Alberta home. Residing just outside of Edmonton, Stirling John takes pride working along side the first nation communities across Canada, with a strong passion for helping Indigenous youth.
Most recently Stirling John has invested much of his time and efforts into recording a new project being released later in 2022. Digging deep into his soul and drawing on what Stirling John is most passionate about, other people and giving back to the community. In doing so, Stirling John found himself. The first single from the new album, is a bit of an awakening, a realization if you will of what means the most. Where I’m Meant To Be, is not only the title of Stirling John’s next project but the first release to come from his first full length album.
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Music has always been something that has been close to Stirling John’s heart. Growing up singing in church with his mother and siblings. For a time, music began to take a backseat to life. After graduation Stirling John, made a life choice to become an RCMP officer and start a family. Over the next few years, Stirling’s path took several turns eventually leading him back to a place of comfort and passion…. Inspirational Country Music. Stirling’s powerful yet comforting vocals touch listeners hearts and souls with songs like Believe, Where I’m Meant To Be and Weight Of The Call. Stirling John is committed to putting a light on the topics that matter most to him, real life people and events.
Drawing inspiration for artists such as Paul Brandt, The Newsboys, Chris Tomlin and Rascal Flatts, Stirling John introspective music carries his listeners down a path of emotion.
In Stirling down time, you will find him being a dad to his children first and foremost. On his days off, Stirling spends time volunteering his time and resources helping develop music programs for Indigenous Students or underfunded schools. Through his passion to help others, Stirling John’s music has also given opportunity to becoming the first Ambassador to the Veterans Association Food Bank in Calgary.
Stirling John provides positive mentorship to struggling youth
Written by Vanessa Friesen Thursday, Jun 22 2023, 8:40 AM
