the CEO Message from
It’s often in the small, everyday moments that the impact of this work becomes clear, whether it’s a community gathering, a young person discovering a new creative outlet, or a story being shared and preserved. These moments, happening in communities across Saskatchewan, are a reminder of why this work matters, and the role culture continues to play in bringing people together. Organizations, artists, and volunteers continue to move their work forward, even as they navigate ongoing changes and uncertainties. What stands out most is not just the work itself, but the spirit behind it, the willingness to adapt, to support one another, and to keep showing up for communities. Through the Funding Program Renewal Project, SaskCulture has been making changes shaped by what we have heard from communities and organizations. This includes moving to 100% upfront funding for SaskCulture project grants to reduce cash-flow barriers and embedding more trauma-informed approaches into our programs and assessment processes. We have also introduced priority areas in some programs to better support equity-denied communities. These are small but meaningful steps toward a more responsive and accessible funding system. This year also gave us the chance to celebrate meaningful milestones. Creative Kids marked its 15th year, supporting over 18,000 young people in exploring their creativity, investing more than $8.76 million in the sector, and supporting over 710 local instructors. It’s a milestone that reflects the lasting impact of this program and the many artists, cultural workers and organizations who bring it to life.
We also continue to see strong interest in SaskCulture’s programs, with participation and engagement reflecting the important role arts, culture, and heritage play in people’s lives. I want to thank SaskCulture staff, who, behind the scenes, continue to bring care, thoughtfulness, and dedication to this work each day, helping to support the many people and communities who make culture thrive across Saskatchewan. I am equally grateful to our partners and community leaders across the province for their collaboration and commitment. This includes the Sask Lotteries Trust Fund for Sport, Culture, and Recreation, whose funding support makes this work possible. And thank you to our Board of Directors for their steady leadership and support. There is still much ahead, but I remain encouraged. When I look at the work happening across Saskatchewan, I see a community that is resilient, connected, and committed to growing together. It is a privilege to be part of this shared journey to build a culturally vibrant Saskatchewan.
Sincerely,
Dean Kush CEO, SaskCulture
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