Into the Light – First Nations Student Bursary Fund

To view entire gallery, please click on one of the images on the right and click through the gallery

To purchase artwork, email Roland Borsato ’72, Alumni Relations, Shawnigan Lake School.

"Into the Light" Summer Event

On a picture-perfect Sunday afternoon, more than seventy performers, artisans, Chiefs and supporters gathered in the Oak Bay neighbourhood of Victoria in support of Shawnigan Lake School’s First Nations Bursary. Attendees were treated to a delightful Sunday afternoon of dance, song, food, and wine, and the opportunity to view and purchase a variety of pieces produced by some of the West Coast’s most talented First Nations artists. The event drew supporters from all over Vancouver Island, throughout British Columbia and even as far away as New Mexico!

After a brief introduction and welcome from Headmaster David Robertson, the stage was set for the afternoon by Chief Rande Cook, who led several other First Nations performers in traditional dances and songs meant to bless the land on which the event was being held. The performers were dressed in their traditional costumes, which were later relinquished to Mr. Robertson and our host for the afternoon, Dev Wood ’85, who joined in the celebrations, gamely trying to master the intricate traditional dance steps. Finally, the remaining members of the audience were convinced to join in the fun, dancing up a storm and working up an appetite!

The balance of the afternoon was spent mingling and savouring the fine wines and food so generously provided by Dev and his wife, Christine. Several of the donated pieces of art were sold to patrons, and a raffle was held for many other pieces in an effort to ensure that no visitor left empty handed. The afternoon was successful on every level, generating a great deal of financial support for the bursary and spreading information about its existence, and its significance to the School. Shawnigan has always prided itself as being a School inclusive of all cultures, and this bursary helps ensure the tradition continues.

The afternoon would not have been the great success it was without the tireless efforts and leadership shown by Dev and Christine. The School thanks them for opening their home to our guests and supporters, and for championing such a worthy cause. Dev assures us he has already begun planning for next year’s event and is committed to making it even bigger and better!