Kaydence Gladue

Age: 18
School: Father Patrick Mercredi High School Graduate for the Class of 2020
Future Goal: To continue pursuing her talents in singing and songwriting

Written by Emma Carter, YMM Parent

Kaydence Gladue is many things. She’s a role model, a devoted community member and an artist. She works full-time at the Fort McKay Wellness Centre, where she started as a volunteer when she was just six years old.

“I remember going to the Wellness Centre as a child and looking up to the older junior leaders so much,” said Kaydence, a recent graduate of Father Patrick Mercredi High School. “Not only did I see all the cool trips and excursions they got to go on, but I saw how big of an impact and influence they made on the younger generations.”

Kaydence’s cousin was a junior leader at the time, and that positive role model inspired her to become a leader as well.

“I want the kids in my community to know that if I can do it, so can they,” said Kaydence. “I take a lot of pride in my position as a junior leader and a role model, and I really want to give encouragement and hope for the future generation of Fort McKay kids.”

Not only is she a hard worker with the Wellness Centre, but Kaydence also works tirelessly on her art. As a singer and songwriter, she utilizes this as an outlet for self-expression.

“Music gave me an outlet to express my emotions and get my messages out there. I feel like my music gave me a platform to help people understand how and why I am the way that I am.”

She writes and records her own music and is currently working on releasing it via streaming platforms, as well as airing it on the Fort McKay radio station.

Her creative expression also extends to traditional First Nations dancing.

“It is a part of Indigenous culture and a way of life,” Kaydence said of her dancing. “My culture is a source of knowledge and healing, and I love that.”

“I want the kids in my community to know that if I can do it, so can they. I take a lot of pride in my position as a junior leader and a role model, and I really want to give encouragement and hope for the future generation of Fort McKay kids.”

— Kaydence Gladue

About the author

YMM Parent Team

YMM Parent Team is a collaboration of authors and contributors from in and around Fort McMurray.