Emma-Leigh Johnston, a first-year Health Sciences student at Trent University, a member of the Wolf Clan from Tyendinaga Mohawk Territory, served as the Earth Captain for the Whitby location of Walk With The Earth 2026. Walk With The Earth is a youth-led national initiative focused on Truth and Reconciliation, youth voice, sustainability, and environmental stewardship. The event raises funds for Honouring Indigenous Peoples (HIP) and their Youth to Youth (Y2Y) program — an immersive land-based learning experience that brings together Indigenous and non-Indigenous youth from across Canada. Emma had the privilege of participating in the Y2Y program in 2025 in Nova Scotia. That experience deeply impacted her. She learned from Elders, Knowledge Keepers, and community leaders, strengthened her connection to culture and land, and built lifelong friendships with youth from across Turtle Island. It is incredibly meaningful to now help create opportunities for other youth to participate in the same transformative experience.
The Whitby Walk With The Earth event took place on April 18, 2026 along the Whitby waterfront .......
The Whitby Walk With The Earth event took place on April 18, 2026 along the Whitby waterfront. The day included:
• 10:00 AM – Check-in
• 11:00 AM – Opening Circle
• 11:30 AM – 2.5 km accessible walk & 5 km route option
• Closing reflections and community connection
You can see some of the details at : https://
Event updates and community highlights can also be found on Instagram at @walkwiththeearthgta.
Emma emceed the event and helped coordinate community outreach, sponsorship, and volunteer engagement. If there is interest in learning more about this very successful initiative, she would be happy to virtually present or connect with your club, about the initiative to share additional details about the impact of the Y2Y program and ways your club members can get involved.
This event is all about youth leadership, reconciliation, and walking together for the next seven generations. Rotary’s long-standing commitment to service and community makes this partnership especially meaningful.
