Founded in 2012, All Nations Juniors is a youth drum group based in Tkaronto, performing a blend of traditional and contemporary styles. The group emerged out of Toronto Council Fire’s Little Embers Youth program, comprised of youth from many different Nations including Dakota, Anishinaabe, Chippewa, Cree, and Haudenosaunee, as well as invited non-Indigenous — thus, All Nations. As the original All Nations drum group transitioned into adulthood, the All Nations Juniors continued the powerful legacy of Toronto Council Fire’s drum. The group has composed many songs, like the Cree/Ojibway song, “Everyone Welcome,” which honours all people across Turtle Island.

Andrea Johns (she/her) is a member of the Kanien'kehá:ha/Mohawk Nation (Six Nations of the Grand River) and is a University of Toronto ’21 alumni. Andrea holds an Honours Bachelor of Arts with High Distinction as a Specialist in Indigenous Studies and a double minor in Book and Media Studies/Creative Expression and Society. She currently is an Indigenous Training Coordinator with the Office of Indigenous Initiatives at the University of Toronto and formerly employed by the Ontario Federation of Indigenous Friendship Centres as an advisor, supporting Communications, Indigenous Employment and Education and the Indigenous Languages Revitalization Program. In her spare time, Andrea is an avid beadworker and artist, where her work has been showcased at the

Asha Frost is an Indigenous Medicine Woman, and the international best-selling author of You are the Medicine and The Sacred Medicine Oracle. She has guided thousands of people through profound and lasting transformation as a healer, homeopath and ceremonial guide and has become a prominent speaker in the field of Indigenous healing, garnering recognition on both local and international platforms.Asha holds membership at Chippewas of Nawash First Nation and is a mama of two boys with whom she walks gently upon the earth. She loves sharing her Medicine in powerful ways through ceremonies, teachings, and speaking events. Through this work, she loves seeing people reclaim their roots, find their healing wisdom, and rise into their power.

Audrey DeRoy, BA/BEd., is of mixed heritage, Anishinaabe/French, a band member of Anizaatikoong (Lac Des Mille Lacs) First Nation, and a mother of two wonderful adult children. She’s employed by the Ontario Native Women’s Association (ONWA) as the Land-Based Supervisor, reconnecting Indigenous women and families to the land, language, and culture. Audrey is a First Nations’ Education Teacher and was formerly employed by the Ministry of Education and Tourism, Culture and Sport. She is a passionate advocate for Indigenous peoples’ identity, Anishinaabe spirituality, worldview, philosophy, history, contributions, ecological/technological knowledge, and teaching students and people of all ages, locally and internationally. Audrey is committed to reclaiming the Anishinaabemowin language and is actively involved in her community, in her role as an Indigenous Education Resource Person and Entrepreneur. She facilitates presentations, workshops, and market/retails her handmade items at Indigenous conferences, organizations, and educational institutions.In the fall of the Millennium year, Audrey and her partner George Price, a Coast Salish Carver, raised a totem pole in Hope, British Columbia called “Coming Home” to honour all Indigenous women who fought for the reinstatement of Indigenous rights and equality, BillC-31 in Canada – Jeannette Corbiere Lavell, Yvonne Bedard, Mary Two-Axe Early, Sandra Lovelace, and Rose Charlie – and as remembrance of the strength of Indigenous women and families!

Claire Sault was elected Chief on December 9, 2023, and served on the Missisaugas of the Credit Council through a bi-election since October 22, 2022. She formerly worked as the CEO of Northwind Business Development, a company wholly owned by Caldwell First Nation. Prior, Chief Sault served as the CEO for Kettle & Stony Point First Nation Administration with a large staff. During the Covid pandemic, Ms. Sault worked in a consulting capacity and prior to that, served as CEO of Noozhoo Nokiyan Limited Partnership owned by the Mississaugas of Scugog Island First Nation. She was the President of a non-profit in California called Divine Choices and Vice President and Director of Human Resources for a large public company and its subsidiary called First American Trust. Both, in the United States. She was born and raised on the Mississaugas of the Credit First Nation with deep roots and strong ties to her mother’s First Nation (Six Nations) as well. After returning to Canada, she functioned in various consultative capacities including working with a First Nation in Saskatchewan. Prior to moving to the United States though, she gained experience within various Aboriginal agencies, including tourism, addictions treatment, First Nation governments and various service organizations. As President of a non-profit and services company, from 2007 through 2013; she travelled extensively promoting the mission and cause of child sexual abuse prevention through public speaking engagements, social media, and TV commercials. She’s also an author and co-author of various papers, teaching materials and a book called “The Lie That Binds”. Ms. Sault received a master’s degree in business administration from Simon Fraser University with her focus on Aboriginal Business and Leadership. Her background provides a broad expertise in business and financial management and more importantly, an understanding of the Indigenous way of life. Ms. Sault is the second youngest of a large family and resides on the Mississaugas of the Credit First Nation.

Chief June Black Picikik8e (Buffalo Woman) is the proud leader of Apitipi Anicinapek Nation, dedicated to advancing her community's vision of self-determination, cultural revitalization, and sustainable growth. As a Matriarch and Leader, Chief Black brings a deep commitment to fostering governance structures that reflect the values and traditions of her Nation while addressing the contemporary challenges faced by her community.Raised with the teachings of the Anishinaabe, Chief Black embodies the spirit of leadership through mino-biimaadziwin—the pursuit of a good life. She carries forward a legacy of advocacy for community-driven decision-making, prioritizing youth empowerment, language preservation, and access to equitable services for all Apitipi members, whether living on or off-reserve. Her leadership is grounded in honesty, transparency, collaboration and determination.Before becoming Chief, June Black played a pivotal role in local governance and community development. She is a graduate valedictorian from the Nechi Institute, and also earned her certificate and diploma from Keyano College and studied Native Studies at the University of Alberta. This foundation has enabled her to lead with a deep understanding of both traditional knowledge and modern governance systems. Throughout her tenure (2020 to present day), Chief Black has been a tireless advocate at regional and national tables, amplifying the voice of Apitipi Anicinapek Nation to ensure that their rights, priorities, and inherent jurisdiction are respected. Her leadership is defined by transparency, collaboration, and unwavering dedication to the well-being of her people.As Chief, June Black continues to inspire future generations by upholding the strength, wisdom, and resilience of the Apitipi Anicinapek Nation.

Sherri-Lyn Hill is a Mohawk woman from Six Nations of the Grand River and currently serves as the 59th Elected Chief. With an impressive background, spanning over 30 years, Sherri-Lyn has dedicated herself to the field of addictions, bringing about positive change and support to countless individuals. Her commitment extends beyond this, as she boasts a decade of experience as an Elected Councillor, actively contributing to the betterment of her community.In addition to her public service, Sherri-Lyn was an entrepreneur with a business facilitating programs and training to First Nations communities across Turtle Island. This venture reflects her dedication to empowering and uplifting others.Beyond her professional pursuits, Sherri-Lyn takes immense pride in her role as a loving mother to three beautiful children and a cherished grandmother to six delightful grandchildren – four granddaughters and twin grandsons. Family holds a special place in her heart, and she always finds time in her busy schedule for them. Sherri-Lyn carves out time for herself by engaging in hockey, softball/slow-pitch, and kickboxing. These activities serve as an outlet for personal well-being while displaying her determination.

Daanis Pelletier (she/her) is Anishinaabe from Fort William First Nation - an Anishinaabe community located on the north shore of Lake Superior in Canada. As a sugar busher, advocate, and young leader, she aims to nourish and protect Indigenous nationhoods through promoting the resurgence of our inherent knowledge and legal systems; language, art, and food sovereignty practices. She is in her third year studying Indigenous Learning with a minor in Philosophy at Lakehead University. Daanis expresses her self care, love, values and relationships through her art of beading. Daanis is inspired by the environment, her mom, and her mentors.

Host of How to Powwow Dance on Youtube, Deanne Hupfield is an Indigenous Educator from Temagami First Nation. Growing up in Thunder Bay and Winnipeg, Deanne witnessed the harsh realities of generational trauma within the Indigenous community stemming from residential schools and the 60s scoop. She has spent her life reconnecting to the culture that was taken from her family from those systems. Now a recognized educator she has been teaching powwow dance and regalia making for over 20 years in numerous community organizations and now online to help others reconnect to culture as she has.

Dr. Alexa Lesperance is an Anishinaabe Family Physician from Rocky Bay First Nation located in the Robinson-Superior Treaty area and Whitefish Bay First Nation in Treaty #3 area. She is Makwa/Bear clan which informed her decision to go into medicine and inspired her pursuit of knowledge and trying to incorporate traditional medicines within western health care systems. She works with the ONWA Mindimooyenh Health Team, helped create ONWA’s Cultural Safety Curriculum and hosts an Indigenous Women’s Health Talk Series every month. She completed her medical residency in Vancouver, BC in the Downtown East Side with the UBC Indigenous Family Medicine Program. She currently serves as the Vice President of the Indigenous Physicians Association of Canada which represents all Indigenous physicians, residents and medical students across Canada and is a Northern Ontario School of Medicine Faculty.

Mshodenkwezhens – Strong Hearted Little GirlEmilee Ann is a twelve-year-old Fancy Shawl/Jingle Dress and Hoop Dancer. Emilee Ann is Pottawatomi/Ojibway and is from the Thunderbird Clan. She is a proud member of the Wiikwemikoong Unceded Territory located on Manitoulin Island (Miidoo Miising). She is known as Emmie to her family and friends, and loves dancing, arts, traveling, being with family and friends, attending pow wows, ceremonies and loves her pets (2 guinea pigs and 2 birds).Emilee Ann began dancing Fancy Shawl after her Coming Out Ceremony in 2016 at the age of 3. She was a Champion dancer at the age of 4 years old, and a year later she found her love for hoop dancing. At the “Every Child Matters Walk” in 2021, Emilee Ann met Canadian recording artist Andrea Ramolo. It was through their friendship that Emilee Ann become involved in Andrea Ramolo’s powerful song/video called “Free” featuring Indigenous artist Kinnie Starr. Emilee Ann starred and co-directed the music video with Andrea and Kinnie. In March 2022, Emilee Ann become the youngest co-director at 8 years of age to win a Canadian Independent Music Video Award (Folk Category) for her role in starring and co-directing “Free”. Emilee Ann was a guest hoop dancer at the Centre for Truth and Reconciliation’s nationally televised event in 2022 and 2023 called – “Gidinawendimin”.Emilee Ann is represented by Vancouver based talent agency, Ignite Artists. Her work in the film and television industry is starting to blossom as she auditions many roles. Emilee Ann is trained by the Armstrong Acting Studios in Toronto. Currently Emilee Ann has two commercials to her credit, with the Dairy Farmers of Canada and the Joy Smith Foundation. Emilee Ann’s work with the Joy Smith Foundation’s National Public Service campaign (launched on Feb. 22, 2023) highlights the importance of educating teenagers about “Knowing the Signs” of human trafficking.Emilee Ann has spent the last 3 month vigorously training for the 2025 World Hoop Dance Championship in Pheonix in February 2025.

Esther Maud is an Ojibwe mother of six, including two stepchildren, and a proud Kokoom from the small community of Skownan First Nation in Manitoba, now residing in Thunder Bay, Ontario. Having overcome personal challenges and intergenerational trauma as the daughter of a residential school and Sixties Scoop survivor, Esther draws strength from her lived experiences and her education in social work to inspire her passion for uplifting and empowering her people.As the founder and CEO of Wabshkaa Animkii Benesii (WAB), an after-school program, Esther creates opportunities for Indigenous youth to embrace their culture through teachings, land-based learning, and traditional crafts. She is also a co-founder of the Orange Abiinoojih Movement, which lit a Sacred Fire that burned for 123 days to honor the 215+ children found in Kamloops, BC, and support residential school survivors and their families.Esther’s love for her family, culture, and sobriety is the foundation of her work. She is dedicated to preserving traditions, fostering healing, and paving the way for a thriving future for her people and community.

Gabrielle Fayant is an off-Settlement Metis woman from Fishing Lake Métis Settlement, AB. Gabrielle is an award-winning woman for her work in her community, her dedication to supporting young people, and amplifying grassroots efforts. Gabrielle is passionate about cultural resurgence, revitalization and restitution for all Indigenous peoples. She has been working in community for 10+ years to help improve the lives of Indigenous peoples and has a diploma in Indigenous Healing and Wellness Counselling. Gabrielle is a helper and co-founder of a non-profit Indigenous youth organization called Assembly of Seven Generation (A7G) and a co-manager for a social enterprise retail store called Adaawewigamig.

Gloria Wesley is a proud member of Missanabie Cree First Nation, from the Bear Clan. Her spirit name is Woman of The South, who works in the Thunder Bay office, as an Indigenous Youth Leadership Coordinator.She is passionate working with our indigenous youth as they are paving the way for our future. She has worked in mental health and addictions for 18 years in different capacities supporting youth navigating through services and reconnecting to cultural practices and teachings.She is a proud grandmother of 2 and loves to be on the land, enjoying nature in her free time.

Born and raised in M’Chigeeng First Nation, Linda Debassige is a devoted mother to two children and grandmother to one. Linda graduated with honours from Civil Engineering Technology at Confederation College, Thunder Bay , and holds a Certificate in Negotiations from Osgoode Hall Law School.First elected to M’Chigeeng First Nation Council in 2013, Debassige was Chief from 2015-2023. During her tenure within the governance of M’Chigeeng, she participated in numerous portfolios, committees, and boards locally, regionally, and nationally, across many sectors including but not limited to treaty, infrastructure, water, housing, environment, policing, mental health and addictions, community safety, economic development, education, health, emergency management, and community development. She is currently serving as the Grand Council Chief of the Anishinabek Nation following a Traditional Stand-Up Election in June 2024.Linda is known for her strong leadership style, knowledge, dedication, and passion for all First Nations people and is often called upon for advice and advocacy for Indigenous communities, organizations, and leadership.Notably, Linda was the first Indigenous Trustee to hold the position of Vice Chair of the largest school board in Northern Ontario, the Rainbow District School Board. She also serves as a co-lead for the Assembly of First Nations on the co-development of the First Nation Safe Drinking Water and Wastewater Legislation.

Helen is a Dane Zaa, Cree, Metis and mixed settler descent woman from Prophet River First Nations living in Northeastern British Columbia. She is the author of the Nationally best-selling book, In My Own Moccasins, which was a longlisted for an RBC Taylor award. Her second book, Becoming a Matriarch, became a National bestseller, was named one of the top 10 books for 2023 by Indigo Canada, was the recipient of a BC Yukon Book Prize, and was a finalist for a 2024 Governor Generals Award in Non-Fiction. Helen holds a Bachelor of Social Work, is completing her Masters in First Nations Studies at UNBC, and has worked in advocacy, wellness, and education within Indigenous communities for over a decade. She is a mediocre beader and an expert berry picker who enjoys holding babies and filling rooms with loud auntie laughter.

Helen Pelletier is an Anishinabe kwe from Fort William First Nation. Helen has worked with Wiigwas for twenty years and recently developed a relationship with winter birchbark and sgraffito style etching. Helen credits her Wiigwas knowledge to family, community, elders, and friends. Helen has exhibited her work in “Their Breath in Beads” (2019) and the Northern Ontario Juried Exhibition in 2019 and 2022 at the Thunder Bay Art Gallery. Helen also exhibited her work Indigenous Fashion Arts Festival marketplace in the Northern Ontario Spotlight in 2020.

Ingrid Green is from Kenora, ON, but considers Lake of the Woods home. She is a registered member of the Lac Seul First Nation. She is the daughter of Catherine (Kitty) Everson nee Wesley and Ronald Everson and is the youngest of eight children. Ingrid is the mother of one fabulous son, Nathaniel Green and has many nieces and nephews that she loves as her very own. Ingrid graduated with First Class Standing in the Indigenous Learning Honours Program with a Minor in Women Studies from Lakehead University. Ingrid is committed to working for and with Indigenous women. Ingrid has worked at the Ontario Native Women’s Association for 18 years in several different positions, continuously supporting and developing programs specific to meeting Indigenous women’s safety needs. Currently, Ingrid is the Director of Research and Evaluation at ONWA and is also the Contributing Editor of the She Is Wise Magazine, a bi-annual magazine that is published by the Ontario Native Women’s Association.

Jaime Black-Morsette is a Red River Métis artist and activist, with family scrip signed in the community of St Andrews, Manitoba. Jaime lives and works on her home territory near the confluence of the Red and Assiniboine rivers. Founder of The REDress project in 2009, Black-Morsette has been using their art practice as a way to gather community and create action and change around the epidemic of violence against Indigenous women and girls across Turtle Island for over a decade. Black-Morsette's interdisciplinary art practice includes immersive film and video, installation art, photography and performance art practices. Her work explores themes of memory, identity, place and resistance.

Janine Desmoulin is a proud Ojibwe from Biigtigong Nishnaabeg (Pic River First Nation), who resides in Thunder Bay and works as a Cultural Resource Coordinator for Ontario Native Women’s Association. It is her goal to create impactful connections with others and inspire those who come in her path to embrace and create new opportunities to step into. Janine is passionate about working with young people in areas of wellness and has learned to use her voice, while on a journey of healing, to share messages of hope. She is honoured to have had many opportunities to share healing and humour as a speaker, workshop facilitator, comedian, and Master of Ceremony; since 2015. She is a mother, auntie to many, and a self proclaimed “Animated Storyteller” who promotes laughter as one of the greatest forms of medicine.

Jennifer Bouchard is a proud member of Kiashke Zaaging Anishinaabek (Gull Bay First Nation), a small community located along the western shores of Lake Nipigon. Above all, Jennifer is a dedicated mother of three sons and has served as a foster parent for over 20 years, advocating for the well-being of the children in her care. Her advocacy efforts focus on reunification, mental health, education, and criminal justice supports, demonstrating her unwavering commitment to the children’s futures. To deepen her understanding of their complex needs, Jennifer earned an Honours Bachelor of Arts in Psychology and is currently pursuing a Master’s in Social Justice Studies at Lakehead University.As a practicum student with the Ontario Native Women’s Association (ONWA) in Community Development, Jennifer is passionate about amplifying the voices of Indigenous women in social justice matters. She has been a long-time volunteer with Our Kids Count, a local community development organization dedicated to promoting the health and growth of individuals and families in her community.In her personal life, Jennifer enjoys reading, beading, crafting moccasins, learning Anishinaabemowin, and spending quality time with her family and friends. She also enjoys engaging in yoga, pilates, and Kizomba dance. Although she has made Thunder Bay her home for many years, Jennifer prioritizes monthly visits to her home community, ensuring her sons have a strong connection to their land and heritage.

Joan Riggs is based in Ottawa and is a long time facilitator primarily working withwomen to strengthen our voices, restore our place in society and celebrate our incredible gifts.Very blessed to be working again at ONWA and with Stan!!!

First Nations Leader | Former MP and Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada | Bestselling Author The Honourable Jody Wilson-Raybould, PC, OBC, KC, was raised to be a leader. The daughter of a hereditary chief and Indigenous leader, she always knew that she would seek leadership roles and responsibilities. As a lawyer, an advocate, and a leader among Canada’s Indigenous Peoples, she’s built a strong reputation as a bridge builder and champion of good governance and accountability. She shares her unique perspective as both a community and political leader on topics such as Indigenous rights and reconciliation, democracy and governance, leadership, and justice. Wilson-Raybould was first elected as a Member of Parliament for the new constituency of Vancouver Granville in 2015. She was then appointed the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada making her the first Indigenous person to serve in this portfolio. In January 2019, she was appointed the Minister of Veterans Affairs of Canada and Associate Minister of National Defence, positions she held until her resignation from cabinet in February 2019. During the 2019 election, Wilson-Raybould was re-elected as an Independent Member of Parliament for Vancouver Granville, making her Canada’s first ever female Independent MP elected and the only elected Independent in the 43rd Parliament. Prior to politics, Wilson-Raybould was a provincial crown prosecutor in Vancouver and served three terms as an elected Commissioner of the BC Treaty Commission. She was also elected BC Regional Chief of the Assembly of First Nations in 2009, where she devoted herself to the advancement of First Nations governance, fair access to land and resources, as well as improved education and health care services. She served until 2015, holding responsibilities for governance and Nation building on the Assembly of First Nations Executive.Wilson-Raybould is a descendant of the Musgamagw Tsawataineuk and Laich-Kwil-Tach peoples, which are part of the Kwakwaka’wakw and also known as the Kwak’wala speaking peoples. She is a member of the We Wai Kai Nation with her traditional name, Puglaas, meaning “woman born to noble people.” She served two terms as an elected councillor for her Nation and was also a director and chair of the First Nations Finance Authority and a director of the First Nations Lands Advisory Board. Wilson-Raybould is the bestselling author of three books, the political memoir “Indian” in the Cabinet: Speaking Truth to Power, which was a finalist for The Writers’ Trust Balsillie Prize for Public Policy and the Shaughnessy Cohen Prize for Political Writing; From Where I Stand: Rebuilding Indigenous Nations for a Stronger Canada; and, her most recent, True Reconciliation: How to Be a Force For Change. She is also the co-author of the forthcoming book, Reconciling History: A Story of Canada.

Laini Lascelles is Lunapeew, Mohawk & Anishnaabe she isa member of Eelunaapeewi Lahkeewiit, Delaware Nation. She is a Nokomis,Grandmother of 2 grand girls, has 2 children and is a Traditional Healer fromthe Wolf clan. Laini has been sharing her knowledge with the indigenouscommunity for over 27 years in the helping field. She was mentored by the Eldersand Healers to use her gifts of healing in sweat lodge ceremony, spirit names,full moon ceremony and rites of passage ceremonies and is an educator through thesocial work field.

Laini's healing journey has shown her a path to guidesothers to find their gifts and strengths to help them grow as human beings. Sheworks to empower Indigenous communities to instill a sense of identity andconnection to spirit. Today, Laini continues to teach others the importance ofliving a balanced lifestyle through her experience and wisdom.

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The Lyons Sisters are Métis Jiggers whose passion for culture has taken them all over North America as performers and as teachers. Being Swampy Cree Metis from the Métis Homeland of Manitoba and Saskatchewan, the sisters learned traditional dance from a very early age. Métis jigging is a beautiful blend of traditional First Nations and European dance styles (Irish, French, and Scottish) and their unique style combines everything they’ve learned from Manitoba, Saskatchewan and Ontario.

Manitou Mkwa Singers (Spirit Bear Singers) hail from the Mississaugas of the Credit First Nation. They are a family Hand drum group that sing pow-wow, and round dance songs. They are all Bear Clan which is in relation to their name “Manitou Mkwa Singers”. They work diligently as helpers in ceremony and community initiatives. They also try to bring awareness to indigenous issues and advocating for their First Nation and their inherent and treaty rights. Their music is meant to uplift the spirits of people and bring good positive energy to those in need.Over the last 10 years since the release of their first album, the Manitou Mkwa Singers have been nominated in the following music awards.The 2015 Indigenous Music Awards for the category of best hand drum group.The 2021 Summer Solstice Indigenous Music Awards, (SSIMA) in two separate categories: Hand-Drum-fiddle-instrumental of the year; and Pow-Wow traditional & Contemporary album of the year.The 2022 Juno nomination in the (first ever) Traditional Indigenous artist or group of the year.

Hi, my name is Meeka N. Uniuqsaraq. I am originally from Niaqunguk/Apex Hill, Iqaluit, Nunavut. I have 2 adult sons and 3 beautiful young Grandsons. My late Parents, Geosah and Mary Uniuqsaraq were originally from Pangnirtung, Nunavut. I have also lived in Ottawa, On and now am residing in Toronto, On for 7 years now. I have been fortunate to have represented for our Inuit living in the urban city of Toronto, ON among all nations. I have been asked for 4 years to do opening and closing prayers or to light my traditional Inuit Seal oil lamp to teach all Nations or people either through in person or through the Zoom since the pandemic years. We have also been recently going to our Tungasuvvingat Inuit office to meet other Inuit whom are residing in the GTA and learning to do either arts and crafts with each other.

Monique DesRosiers is a proud Métis woman whose family traces their lineage to White Horse Plains (St. Francois Xavier) Manitoba.With more than 20 years of experience working in the social services field, Monique has dedicated her career to empowering women. She is passionate about strengthening the capacity and supporting Indigenous women on their leadership journey. Monique is the Manager of Membership Services in the Community Development department at ONWA.Monique resides in Thunder Bay and is the mother of two grown sons. As a family, they are committed to learning and reclaiming their culture.Happiest outside, Monique enjoys gardening, walking and playing in the snow.

Nadya Kwandibens is Anishinaabe from Animakee Wa Zhing #37 First Nation in northwestern Ontario. She is an award winning portrait and events photographer, an ambassador for Canon, and has traveled extensively across Canada for over 14 years. In 2008 she founded Red Works, a dynamic photography company empowering contemporary Indigenous cultures through photographic series and features. Red Works also provides image-licensing, workshops, and presentations. Her photography has been shown in group and solo exhibitions across Canada and the United States, and Nadya currently hold the position of Photo Laureate for the City of Toronto!

Combined with extensive experience, specialized education, distinct skills and a wide range of multi faceted abilities; the Training Team is guided through its experiences and fostered relationships between community as well as its connection to grandmothers. Grandmothers lead the work in a good way to amplify safety, empowerment of Indigenous Women in picking up their leadership roles. The Training Teams primary focus has been building capacity, creating awareness, fostering connections, cultivating relationships and encouraging partnerships. The Training Team works at the grassroot, municipal, provincial and national level; with ONWA’s staff, membership and communities. The Training Team developed Love Builds the Bundle, a toolkit designed to focus on 2 Spirited Girls inherent roles and responsibilities and launched it at the National Summit on Indigenous Mental Wellness in 2024. Currently, the Training Team is rebranding the Missing Person Toolkit connecting with community through engagements to ensure consistent language and messaging in all our documents over time. The Training Team consists of a small but mighty team of: Collin Graham, Manager; Hugette Carty, Program Development and Community Engagement Team Lead; and Michelle McGuire, Community Capacity Coordinator.

Senator Parm (Parmallia) Burgie has made Ottawa her home for over 40 years. She was born in Toronto, her father’s Métis community comes from Penetanguishene, Ontario and is a citizen with the Métis Nation of Ontario. Parm has been elected Métis Senator for the Ottawa Region Métis Council and has served with the community council for over ten years. Watching her community grow, and being able to assist the citizens, has been an honor.In her role as Senator, she helps foster bonds between community members at events and meetings, as well as helps to keep Métis culture vibrant within the City of Ottawa, by sharing Métis traditions and way of life. Speaking at many engagements in advocacy of Métis recognition in Canada. In addition, Parm actively volunteers in many other organizations and boards within Ottawa, such as the Community Equity Council and the Ottawa Aboriginal Coalition.Parm continues researching her family history, which she started over 20 years ago.

Elder Renee Thomas-Hill, Cayuga Nation, Bear Clan, is an educator, elder and grandmother living on Six Nations near Brantford. She is a sessional lecturer and Elder-in-Residence at McMaster University. She is a founder of Grandmother’s Voice on social media and has also held the role of Cultural Co-ordinator at the Native Horizons Healing Lodge, which works with addictions at New Credit First Nation. As a Haudenosaunee woman, she is responsible to carry on the teachings of ‘Our’ Way of Life. “My walk in life, is to share awareness and the uplifting of the spirit through the teachings of Our Mother, the Earth and the Understanding of the Good Mind.”

Samantha Doxtator – Haudenosaunee, Oneida; Wolf Clan – is a Personal Development Consultant who specialises in teaching life and employability skills that are grounded by traditional values. She has over 25 years of communications experience and uses this knowledge to help build bridges of new understandings.Samantha has recently accepted the gift to continue the work and research on Indigenous Astronomy by her sister Sasha who passed away in July 2021. Sasha’s passion for infusion of Indigenous Knowledge and Science in education will continue to be remembered.The sharing of this knowledge and research has been referred to as medicine by many communities. This aligns with Samantha’s intentions, which are to heal Indigenous oppression with astronomical knowledge and original ways of knowing with the focus of nurturing intergenerational gifts, creativity, and innovation.

Sophia Carnovale, a 20-year-old Mohawk Wolf Clan member from Six Nations of the Grand River, is a passionate advocate for Indigenous rights and representation. A third-year Public Health student at Brock University with a minor in Indigenous Studies, Sophia also works at Hadiya’dagénhahs First Nations, Métis, and Inuit Student Centre, supporting Indigenous students on campus. During her free time, she serves as a Donnie Wenjack Youth Ambassador, sits on the Ontario Native Women’s Association Board as Southern Youth Director, and volunteers as a youth soccer coach, mentoring young athletes. Sophia is passionate about cultural revitalization, youth empowerment, and social justice. Her dedication to education, cultural advocacy, and community well-being highlights her commitment to building a more inclusive and equitable future for Indigenous peoples.

Stan Wesley is from Moose Factory and currently living in Six Nations Territory with his wife Mandy and two daughters Maya and Tenona.With his high-energy and sincere professional approach, he’s considered by many to be one of the most high energy speakers around. He’s pumped to be working again with ONWA.

Stephanie Mikki Adams is a female Inuk from Rankin Inlet Nunavut. Her and her family moved to Ottawa in the Fall of 2018 to work with the Federal Government as a Data Analyst. Mikki and her Husband Kelly have two living children; Dione (25 and Tia (23), and in 2017 sadly Mikki and Kelly lost their oldest child Billie Jo in an accident.Mikki Adams received her Management Studies Certificate in 2001 at the Nunavut Arctic College in Rankin Inlet and her Certified Aboriginal Financial Managers designation from AFOA Canada in 2009. From 2005 until 2009 Mikki had entered into a “Mentorship assignment” through the Canadian Executive Search Organization which assisted in enhancing her skills and competencies that are essential to a Financial Managers position; budgeting, reviewing and implementing new financial processes and systems, strategic planning, methodologies and principals of accounting, time management and human resource issues. Recently, Mikkis been accepted into Harvard taking the Harvard Business School Executive Certificate Program - Leading People and Investing to Build Sustainable Communities in March of 2025! She has been in finance and management for 20+ years. She worked in many levels and sectors such as: municipal (Hamlet of Rankin Inlet), government (Government of Nunavut with the Nunavut Arctic College) and recently at the federal government (Employment and Social Development Canada) until she was hired as Executive Director with Inuuqatigiit Centre for Inuit Children Youth and Families in July of 2019. Mikki is the Co-Chair Ottawa Aboriginal Coalition, a board member with CASO, Inuit Non-Profit Housing, ONWA.

Strong Water Singers is an Indigenous led collective, who has dedicated the past ten years strengthening their voices and identities. With a focus of redefining and strengthening Sisterhood in accordance to the traditional Teachings, roles and responsibilities they strive to spread their ‘heart medicine’ with all of Creation. Currently an 11 time award winning collective, who recently signed to be Artist Ambassadors for the Downie Wenjack Fund, Strong Water Singers, is incredibly grateful for every opportunity that comes their way, they endeavour to seize every opportunity for the women, children, men, and families in their community. At the core of Strong Water Singers, dwells mother/daughter relationships that not only have been strengthened by a commitment to cultural reclamation, but have also been renewed by an understanding and appreciation for the role that Indigenous women have to themselves, their family and community. We are incredibly humbled, grateful and honoured to be asked to meaningfully contribute to this years She Is Wise conference!

Aanii / Boozhoo / Hello My name is Suzanne Knapp, BSWH. I am a 73 year old Anishnaabikwe, I was born and raised in Wiikwemikoong Unceded Territory and currently reside in Manitowaning. Ojibway is my first language and culture and I was raised with traditional customs. I am a Mother and pride and joy of 2 children, stepmother of 6, grandmother of 15 and 2 great grandchildren. I am presently ONWA Grandmother for the Eastern Region. I have been involved with ONWA for 16 years. Fortunately, my good health enables me to continue to work with Anishnaabemowin Childrens' Program, revitalizing our language by providing Monday-Friday programs in a home-like setting with other fluent speaking Elders. Most of my work related experiences were in the Humanities working with various age groups including children, youth, adults to elders. I have worked in Family Resource Centre, schools and Nursing Homes. I attended courses in Cambrian College and Laurentian University to obtain a Social Work Degree and an Ojibwe Language Training Program required for my present position. These courses were excellent in preparing me to work in this field. I enjoy a variety of hobbies that include reading, cooking, sewing, knitting and doing crafts. I engage in physical activities including hiking, biking, swimming, boating, gardening, dancing, travelling, yardwork. I also enjoy attending workshops and socializing with others. During this time we usually share events in our lives and support others. I am very grateful to be involved with ONWA and my role as Grandmother. The Ontario Native Women's Association has encouraged and helped many women take leadership roles within themselves and in our communities. Chi-miigwetch.

Tanya Gluvakov is the founder of Roots and Raven, a botanical body care brand that focuses on Indigenous medicines, connecting to land and Indigenous medicine garden projects. She is a mixed nation Mohawk woman with roots and family from Six Nations. Her motivation to teach, create and help with Indigenous medicine resurgence projects comes from her connection to her grandmother Betty, who taught her she could stand up and do hard things. Land is healer and holds Un during difficult times. Community and connection heal us and help us move forward in a good way.

Wa'tkwanonhwerátonh, my name is Katsi'tsyo Tawnya Brant. I carry my grandmother's Mohawk name. I am a chef, a mother of 2 beautiful sons and loving fiancée to Cody. I was raised and currently reside on the Six Nations of the Grand River Territory, located in southern Ontario. I am a Kanyen'kehá:ka (Mohawk) woman and Tekarihoken Turtle clan. My goal is to use this forum to share my journey with Indigenous food and my work in the Indigenous food sovereignty movement.

Teanna Bertin-McLeod is a 24-yr old Métis youth currently working as an Indigenous Youth Leadership Coordinator with ONWA. Originally from Thunder Bay, Teanna relocated to Ottawa to complete her degree in Criminology and Criminal Justice and currently resides there. After completing her degree, she went on to work as an Anti-Human Trafficking Liaison for 2 years then transferred to her current position at ONWA. When she is not working, she enjoys spending time outdoors and beading!

The Bearhead Sisters are a musical trio from Paul First Nation, Alberta, Canada, Who are a two time JUNO Nominated group that won the Juno Award for Traditional Indigenous Artist of the Year at the Juno Awards of 2023 for their album Unbreakable The group, consisting of sisters Allie, Trina, and Carly Bearhead. The group also competed in the third season of Canada's Got Talent with un breaking song “Waka’Ne” the sisters continue to travel national to share their gift of song and story. The sisters have been a singing trio for 20 plus years and continue to grow as the year passes on. There dream and vision was to reach the young people. We're very proud of the work we do within our indigenous communities and proud of who we are and where we come from. Our ancestors carried a lot of strength with them and prayed for our generations to be here today. We believe that that’s our message for the world to know that we’re still here and very much thriving with our cultural. Language and songs.

Registered Psychotherapist, Professional Art Therapist, Canadian Certified CounsellorTisha Summers is from Oneida Nation of the Thames First Nation and Wasauksing First Nation. Tisha resides inLondon, Ontario and provides support to London and surrounding First Nation communities. She has herHuman Services Foundation Certifi cate, Child and Youth Worker Advanced Diploma, Sociology Degree andMasters level designate in Art Therapy. She has been working directly with children, youth and families for over20 years in a variety of different settings.Tisha has specialized training in Art Therapy through Toronto Art Therapy Institute, and Emotional Intelligencetraining through Six Seconds. She has her level 1 training in Somatic Experiencing and Level 1 training in soundtherapy. Tisha has professional registration with Canadian Art Therapy Association, with the College ofRegistered Psychotherapists of Ontario, & Canadian Counselling and Psychotherapy Association.

Tressa Beaulieu (she/her) is a Métis woman with citizenship with the Métis Nation of Ontario, from the Dalseg, Godin and Morriseau family lines (Region 1/Treaty 3). As a student and lifelong learner in her indigeneity, Tressa moves through this colonial world by valuing honesty, practicing authenticity, and standing proudly in the strength of her ancestors. Tressa holds the titles of a Registered Dietitian (RD) and Certified Equine Assisted Learning Facilitator in Thunder Bay, Ontario.She has transformed a lifelong passion and of working with horses into a unique, culturally inclusive, and empowering business, known as ‘Red Horse Connection’. This business combines her passions of food sovereignty initiatives, land-based education, and horses. As part of Red Horse Connection, Tressa hosts a variety of equine-assisted workshops to bring together Indigenous youth, families, and groups, as well as provides education through speaking engagements and conferences.Tressa strives for connection in all things, within herself, with others and most of all with her community to offer Indigenous-led safe spaces that promote learning and healing.

Yolanda Wanakamik is a proud Anishinaabe kwe and a member of Whitesand First Nation. She has over twenty years of experience in education, social services, healthcare, and private sectors dedicated to integrating structure, policy, and programs that most effectively influence a strategic community vision. Yolanda is the ONWA Director of Community Development, she champions the values of multi-sector engagement, mobilizing ideas, skills and passion of like-minded community organizations, government, and people.Yolanda has a diverse background of experience in areas of Indigenous governance and politics, serving as her First Nation Band Councillor. She is an avid community volunteer. She is known as a broad and progressive thinker with a participative style that develops learning communities designed to incorporate an open space for dialogue to move toward common desired goals as a network of influencers.Yolanda is a wife and mother and outside of work, can be found spending time with family, cycling, weightlifting, reading and being outside on the land. Yolanda has a special affinity for storytelling and learning with, from and by others through story.

Zippie is from Nain, Labrador (Nunatsiavut.) She is a former Minister of Lands & Natural Resources and a former Minister of Status of Women for the Nunatsiavut Government. Zippie also helped create a curriculum on Inuit history for Illiniapaa Skills Development Centre in the community support program on the impacts of colonization.Zippie now lives in Ottawa and works for Tungasuvvingat Inuit as an Elders Cultural coordinator delivering programs for Inuit and Elders. She hosts Inuit Zoom Groups and Elders Virtual Tea all across Canada and the world for Inuit families to connect with each other.