In partnership with The Learning Network and Lakeland College, ‘Elder In The Making’ was premiered at the Alumni Theatre in Vermilion on September 27. The educational documentary film was also shown at high schools in Lloydminster on September 27, as well as in Marwayne on September 28. Lakeland College’s manager of indigenous support services, Clint Chocan, introduced producer and director, Chris Hsiung, as well as The Learning Network’s Dan Nash. “Coordinating professional development, it’s not often that we get to work in the community. ‘Elder In The Making’ is really a work of art, and has a very thought-provoking message,” said Nash. As the film began, the audience was captivated as a Blackfoot aboriginal, and a Chinese newcomer embarked on a journey to rediscover their shared heritage. The film covers topics including history, environment, health, humanity, and reconciliation. The audience was awed by the beautiful imagery and relationships in the film, paired with authentic music and a remarkable story. The film’s relevance moved them to laugh, become emotional, and applaud. Of his first feature documentary film, Hsiung said that the experience was very rewarding and has been shared with audiences as far away as New Zealand. Along with its own curriculum material, the film has been shared in schools across Canada. It has also been recognized for its value to new recruits of the RCMP and newcomers to Canada. “Being able to dig deeper into the history gave me a whole different connection to the landscape. Reconciliation is something that Canada really needs to do. This history is a critical part of Canada’s origin story. Coming to terms with it and forming relationships with indigenous people is essential for Canada to become more whole as a country,” said Hsiung.
From left, Dan Nash, Chris Hsiung, and Clint Chocan during the ‘Elder In The Making’ film premiere in Vermilion on September 27.