CLBC’s North CLBC Community Council and Empowering Self Advocates to Take Actions (ESATTA) Cooperative recently lit up Prince George with the North Star Gathering—a vibrant, three-day celebration of inclusion, connection, and self-advocacy. Held from May 22 to 24, 2025, the event brought together over 100 people from across the North to learn, share, and build stronger, more welcoming communities.
Community Council members from across the North Region kicked off the gathering with an in-person meeting to reflect on their role and set goals for the year ahead. This face-to-face connection was a welcomed and important milestone for the group who haven’t met all together in person since before COVID.
The event officially began with a World Café, offering a welcoming and inclusive space for open conversations about self-advocacy and belonging. This was followed by People Planning Together workshops, led by experienced self-advocacy leaders, which guided participants in exploring their personal goals and building their confidence to plan for the future.
The Council also hosted an lively Community Carnival that welcomed families, community members, and local organizations. With games, food, face painting, glitter tattoos, and plenty of laughter, the event created meaningful opportunities for connection. Attendees also heard powerful presentations from the North Community Council and ESATTA Cooperative, highlighting the important work happening in the North to promote inclusion and self-determination.
Chelsea Rinquinha, Chair of the North Community Council and a Self-Advocacy Leader, shared her pride in bringing this event to life:
“This event was a great way to learn, share and celebrate together. It helped promote inclusive communities and self-advocacy leadership. I’m especially proud because hosting an in-person gathering like this in the North has been my dream for many years. I’m so happy it was a success—and I can’t wait to do it again!”
This event is a powerful example of the vital role CLBC’s Community Councils play in empowering people to lead full lives, have meaningful relationships, and participate in decisions that affect their communities. Council members are volunteers with lived experience—self-advocates, families, and allies—who help guide CLBC’s work by providing grassroots input, building partnerships, and championing inclusion across the province.
Congratulations to the North Region Council, ESATTA Cooperative, and all those involved for coming together to host such a memorable and impactful event.
For more information about CLBC Community Councils, contact CLBC.Connect@gov.bc.ca.
