August 6 - 9, 2026
Camp fYrefly is Canada's only national leadership retreat for lesbian, gay, bisexual, trans-identified, two-spirited, intersexed, queer, questioning, and allied youth. The Camp, which was founded in 2004 by Dr. André P. Grace and Dr. Kristopher Wells of the University of Alberta, is designed to help youth develop the leadership skills and personal resiliency necessary for them to become agents for positive change in their schools, families, and communities. After observing the impact of the programming while serving as the Artist in Residence at Camp fYrefly Edmonton, Dr. Spencer J Harrison '97, teamed up with Dr. Grace to bring Camp fYrefly to Trent University in 2017.
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About Camp fYrefly
Artists in Residence
As an arts-based camp, Camp fYrefly Ontario has been blessed with so many creative and talented individuals who have shared their gifts and stories with campers. Below you will find a list of past Artists in Residence, along with links to their personal websites, showcasing their work.
| 2024 | Justin Fraser | https://www.instagram.com/justin_fraser_stylist |
| 2023 | PJ Marcellino | https://www.instagram.com/pjmarcellino |
| 2022 | Charlie Petch | http://www.charliecpetch.com/ |
| 2021 | Hana Shafi | https://www.instagram.com/frizzkidart/ |
| 2020 | Spencer J. Harrison | https://agp.on.ca/artists/spencer-harrison/ |
| 2019 | Mark Julien | https://mark-julien-illustration.myshopify.com/ |
| 2018 | Syrus Marcus Ware | https://www.syrusmarcusware.com/ |
| 2017 | Kael (Kate) Reid | https://kaelreid.com/ |
Applications
Please click and fill-out the appropriate form, below.
| APPLICATION FORMS | |
| TBA | |
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CHECK OUT the Camp fYrefly Variety Hour Radio Show!
The Camp fYrefly Variety Hour Radio Show blends arts, stories, and identity to bring you a little bit of queer culture and fYrefly magic over the airwaves. Contributors: Grayden Heatherly, Kris Hamill, Teddy Syrette, Kyler Kay, Oliver Middleton
For Teacher Candidates
Offered as an Alternative Placement Setting, Teacher Candidates will help create a safe, inspiring space during the 4-day summer retreat weekend. You'll support workshops, activities, and community-building experiences that empower young people to develop confidence, resilience, and leadership skills. Whether you’re facilitating discussions, lending a helping hand, or mentoring, your role will be vital in making Camp fYrefly unforgettable for everyone involved. Come be part of an amazing team working to help youth shine and grow!
Teacher Candidates wishing to join our team or find out more, contact:
Rachael Nicholls
2025 Faculty Liaison
rachaelmnicholls@trentu.ca
For Researchers & Community Members
Interested in collaborating with Camp fYrefly? Please email us at fyreflyo@trentu.ca
GIVE TO FYREFLY |
Camp fYrefly Ontario simply would not exist without the support of many generous individuals, community organizations, churches, businesses, and corporations. Annual Camp operating costs exceed $50,000. We raise these funds from a variety of sources, which include fundraisers, community partnerships, and grants. For a $300.00 donation, you can help one youth to attend Camp fYrefly in person. Help send a kid to camp and give them the chance you never had! All donations in support of Camp fYrefly are eligible to receive a charitable tax deduction receipt from Trent University. |