WILL "RAYNE" STRONGHEART
Will is a member of the award-winning hip hop group REDDNATION. He travels with the group facilitating youth workshops and performing at concerts. He has shared the stage with acts such as Sean Kingston and Lloyd Banks. Will is Saulteaux, from the Keeseekoose First Nation in Saskatchewan
Who was your inspiration when you were growing up?
Oddly enough, George Jones. My mom used to play his stuff all the time. And the way he connected to his audience was second to none. I was also inspired by Tupac and SPM.
were there any issues you dealt with as a young per- son that you see young people dealing with today?
Peer pressure has been and will always be a big issue. I definitely think it’s the root that can lead to the drug and alcohol problems young people face. Along with gangs. When I was growing up, alcoholism was also a major issue.
what is the role of a leader in the community?
Lead by example. A leader embodies characteristics best suited for his or her community. I find a leader to be one who takes action. Don’t be afraid to speak; there may be many who share your voice.
What is your vision for your community?
I certainly see a rise in interest for the arts and sports for our younger generation. I’m hoping that as a community, we can nurture our children’s passions and see them succeed. I’d like to see a busier community where people stay active and feel proud of where they live.
What role should our traditions and culture have in the lives of our first nations youth?
Being First Nation isn’t something we try to be, we simply are. By identifying our own traditions and culture we can maintain the roots of our own uniqueness. Youth often find troublein “fitting in,” and a great place to start is with yourself. Our teachings are relevant to this day, and learning them only helps us grow.
What advice would you give to young athletes and potential leaders in the communities?
Don’t give up. I know it seems cliché, but the truth is we all have and will face challenges. When it seems like no matter how hard you try, you may fail—that’s when you need to push the hardest.
If you had one message to send to the native com- munity in north america, what would it be?
Follow that dream. I’ve met so many talented, warm-hearted, and strong-spirited people among the communities of Turtle Island. And far too often I’ve seen a lot of my brothers and sisters give up on their dreams because of obstacles and sometimes, addiction. Following your own dream can not only give you a life of happiness and lessons, it can also inspire generations to come.
Why is education important for our young people and their communities?
Education is the foundation of everything. When you learn to hunt, sing, or shoot a slapshot, you’re taught. We aren’t born with the knowledge to achieve what we want. So, we learn how to obtain it. Education is exercising the most valuable asset we have as humans—our brain.
Did you have to overcome specific challenges to be where you are today?
I’ve faced a lot of challenges growing up. I’ve dealt with peer pressure and the lure of gangs. Bouts with alcohol have also been a factor in my life. At one particular time in my life, I felt so down and out I didn’t trust anyone. I was too proud to ask anyone for help and it really took me down a rough path.
What is the story behind your story?
I guess it’s not much different than anyone else’s. There’s been a lot of challenges, a lot of downfalls leading to countless lessons. But, the key to getting me where I am today is love. Love for the art of music, the love I share for my culture and people. But especially the love from my family and friends. It’s really what got me through it all. And the reason I keep going today.
