My name is Ananya Ramchandani, and I am pleased to present a final report as a summer research intern at More Than Words, an innovative a 4-year project (2019-2023) which is part of WAGE’s national $50 million Gender-Based Violence program that explores the profound impact of Indigenous-focused youth-led survivor engagement through the arts, with a specific focus on understanding its effects on the producers (young people) as well as their families and communities in relation to their experiences of Sexual and Gender-Based Violence (SGBV). I am in my third year of my studies at McGill University, earning my Bachelor of Arts degree in International Development and Sociology.
The More Than Words project aims to create a safe and empowering space for Indigenous youth to express themselves through artistic mediums, enabling them to reclaim their narratives, address issues of SGBV, and promote healing within their communities. This internship has provided me with invaluable insights into the intersection of Indigenous culture, youth empowerment, survivor engagement, and the transformative potential of art as a means of expression and healing. As an International Development and Sociology student, I was drawn to the More Than Words project as a medium of promoting social justice and equity.
During my internship, I was tasked with various responsibilities aimed at supporting the development of skills among girls and young women in the context of intergenerational mentorship, referred to as "auntiship." This initiative, known as More Than Words, focuses on exploring Indigenous-focused survivor engagement through the arts and collaborates with girls and young women from diverse backgrounds at locations across Canada: Eskasoni (Cape Breton), Nova Scotia; Rankin Inlet, Nunavut; and Treaty 6 (Saskatoon), Saskatchewan.
I was actively involved in several key areas, including the creation of engaging knowledge mobilization materials, toolkits, and resources tailored to youth. I also assisted in gathering support resources for designated sites, transcribing interviews to use in proposals and write-ups, took notes during community events, and later produced reports detailing the activities of our youth participants. Another noteworthy project involved the production and editing of the final edition of the More Than Words (You)th Inspire Newsletter. My role included generating innovative and creative content to engage youth audiences, enhancing the overall impact of the newsletter. Through these tasks, I actively contributed to the overarching mission of fostering leadership among Indigenous girls and young women, facilitating collaboration with boys and young men, and promoting culturally relevant dialogues on the root causes of, as well as solutions to, sexual and gender-based violence.
During my time as a summer research intern, I discovered and learned so much about the benefits of participatory visual methodologies as a method of rehabilitation. Indigenous-focused survivor engagement through the arts has a profound impact on the empowerment and self-esteem of young producers. The creative process allows them to express their experiences, reclaim their agency, and foster a sense of community and support among their peers. Art acts as a healing tool, allowing young producers to process their experiences of SGBV in a safe and expressive manner. This contributes to their overall well-being and resilience, emphasizing the importance of culturally relevant healing practices. The positive effects of the project extend beyond the individual producers. Families and communities witness the transformative power of art in addressing SGBV, leading to increased awareness, open dialogues, and a collective effort towards healing.
My time as a summer research intern at More Than Words has been an enlightening experience. The project's commitment to Indigenous youth, survivor engagement, and the healing potential of art has inspired me. The findings from this research project emphasize the need for continued support and expansion of similar initiatives that empower marginalized communities, promote healing, and create positive societal change.
I am grateful for the opportunity to contribute to this important work and for the knowledge and skills I have gained throughout this internship.
I would like to express my gratitude to the entire More Than Words team for their guidance and support during this internship. I also extend my appreciation to the Indigenous youth, families, and community members who generously shared their stories and experiences, making this research possible. Lastly, I would like to thank the King family for generously providing the Hinda Ordower King Award of Merit which helped me financially support myself throughout the summer. This internship has been a transformative experience, and I am excited to carry forward the lessons and insights I have gained into my future endeavours.
