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JUNE 2-4, 2025

RBC Convention Centre

Winnipeg, MB

Attendee quick links

The National Centre for Truth and Reconciliation (NCTR) and the First Nations Confederacy of Cultural Education Centres (FNCCEC) are hosting the Indigenous History and Heritage Gathering (IHHG). This gathering is one of the many important events held during Indigenous History Month. It brings together diverse groups who are working to amplify the distinct stories of Indigenous Peoples across Turtle Island.

Ten Years Since the TRC's 94 Calls to Action

June 2025 marks a decade since the Truth and Reconciliation Commission presented the 94 Calls to Action, setting a foundation for reconciliation between Canadians and Indigenous Peoples. IHHG will serve as an essential space to reflect on the progress made since June 2015, and provide an invaluable opportunity to engage in meaningful dialogue, explore our shared histories, and commit to building a better future rooted in respect, understanding, and reconciliation.
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Keynote Speakers

To access a speaker's bio, simply click or tap their photo or name.

Dr. Wilton Littlechild

Dr. Wilton Littlechild

Maskwacîs, Alberta – Treaty No. 6
Grand Chief, Lawyer

For more than 40 years, Dr. Littlechild has worked to build bridges between Indigenous and non-Indigenous Peoples through athletics, and law.

Morris Swan Shannacappo ​

Morris Swan Shannacappo ​

President, First Nations Confederacy of Cultural Education Centres

Morris Swan Shannacappo is a well-known cultural and political leader who has served our community for many years.

Phyllis Webstad

Phyllis Webstad

Author

A residential school Survivor and the inspiration behind Orange Shirt Day, Phyllis has sparked a national movement that continues to inspire dialogue, reflection, and action.

Speakers

To access a speaker's bio, simply click or tap their photo or name.

Mark Atleo

Mark Atleo

Survivor, Alberni Indian Residential School

Harry Bone

Elder Dr. Harry Bone

Need Title

Tréchelle Bunn

Tréchelle Bunn

Chief of Birdtail Sioux Dakota Nation

Andrew Carrier

Andrew Carrier

BA, RPT, CHRP

Francine Compton

Francine Compton

Associate Director of the Indigenous Journalists Association (IJA)

Jeffrey Cook

Jeffrey Cook

Survivor, Alberni Indian Residential School

Sherri Cook

Sherri Cook

Survivor, Alberni Indian Residential School

Karen Courchene

Karen Courchene

Grandmother-in-residence, University of Manitoba

Jennifer David

Jennifer David

Senior Consultant and Lead, Truth & Reconciliation Service Basket at NVision Insight Group

Chastity Davis

Chastity Davis-Alphonse

Principal, Chastity Davis Consulting

Verna DeMontigny

Verna DeMontigny

Jonathan Dewar

Jonathan Dewar

PhD, Chief Executive Officer, First Nations Information Governance Centre

Cambria Harris

Cambria Harris

Youth Advocate, MMIWG2S and Search the Landfill Movement

Cheryl McKenzie

Cheryl McKenzie

Executive Director of News and Current Affairs / Executive Management, APTN

Norman Meade

Norman Meade

Elders-in-Residence, University of Manitoba

Cary Miller

Dr. Cary Miller

Associate Professor, Department of Indigenous Studies, UofM

Josie Nepinak

Josie Nepinak

President, Native Women’s Association of Canada

Pat Ningewance

Patricia Ningewance

Language Professor, Survivor, Translator

Pahan PteSanWin

Pahan PteSanWin

Respectful Rematriation Repatriation Ceremony Co-Chair, University of Manitoba

Michael Redhead Champagne

Michael Redhead Champagne

Need Title

Melissa Rigden

Melissa Rigden

Lara Rosenoff Gauvin

Lara Rosenoff Gauvin

Respectful Rematriation Repatriation Ceremony Co-Chair and Associate Professor, University of Manitoba

Tammy Squitti

Tammy Squitti

Survivor, Alberni Indian Residential School

Shayla Stonechild

Shayla Stonechild

Matriarch Movement, APTN

Kim Sullivan

Kim Sullivan

Host-Reporter | Montréal, APTN

Fran Tait

Fran Tait

Survivor, Alberni Indian Residential School

Wanbdi Wakita

Wanbdi Wakita

Grandfather-in-Residence, University of Manitoba

Andrea Naomi Walsh

Andrea Naomi Walsh

Ph.D., Associate Professor and Smyth Chair in Arts and Engagement, Department of Anthropology at the University of Victoria

We are honoured by the participation of these confirmed speakers.
Please check back with us regularly as more are being added.

Call for Speakers

Speaker standing on stage with podium

IHHG 2025 will explore the following themes through three central program tracks:

» Reflecting on the TRC’s Legacy
» Indigenous Culture and Language​
» Sharing Stories

We invite presenters to submit proposals that explore innovative strategies, research, stories, experiences, and best practices related to the above themes and tracks.

Learn More

View our photo gallery from the 2024 Indigenous History & Heritage Gathering.

Dr. Wilton Littlechild

Dr. Wilton Littlechild

Maskwacîs, Alberta – Treaty No. 6
Grand Chief, Lawyer

For more than 40 years, Dr. Littlechild has worked to build bridges between Indigenous and non-Indigenous Peoples through athletics, and law. An accomplished lawyer, he is the first Indigenous person appointed to Queen’s (now King’s) Counsel by the Alberta Law Society. He brought Indigenous issues to public attention while serving as the first Treaty Indian Member of Parliament. Dr. Littlechild has been active with a number of organizations both within Canada and internationally, including the Indigenous Parliament of the Americas, the United Nations, the National Indian Athletic Association, and the Canadian Council of International Law.  Dr. Littlechild served as a Commissioner on the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada, whose final report was released on December 15, 2015; Regional Chief to the Assembly of First Nations and Grand Chief of the Confederacy of Treaty Six First Nations.  He served as the Commissioner of the Saskatchewan Justice System to report on over-representation of Indigenous Peoples and racism in the legal system.

In recognition for his service and dedication fighting for the Rights of Indigenous Peoples globally, the Treaty No. 6 Elders and Chiefs through a sacred traditional ceremony honoured Dr. Littlechild with the title of “International Chief”, a lifetime position supported by the Chiefs of Treaty No. 7 and Treaty No. 8 at a duly convened meeting. For his participation in Indigenous and athletic endeavours, Dr. Littlechild has been honoured with a number of awards, including the Lifetime Achievement Award as an Aboriginal Role Model, the Order of Canada, the Queen’s Jubilee Award; he has been inducted into nine Sports Halls of Fame, including the Canada Sports Hall of Fame. A graduate of the University of Alberta with a Master’s Degree in Physical Education, a Bachelor of Law Degree, and five Honourary Doctorates at Law. A renowned expert on the Inherent and Treaty Rights, International laws and declarations pertaining to Indigenous Peoples, including the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples and the Organization of America States Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples. Instrumental in securing not only the International Year of Indigenous Languages but also the International Decade of Indigenous Languages.

Morris Swan Shannacappo ​

Morris Swan Shannacappo

President, First Nations Confederacy of Cultural Education Centres

Morris Swan Shannacappo is a well-known cultural and political leader who has served our community for many years. Morris was first elected to council at his home community of Rolling River First Nation when he was 25 years old. He served as Chief of his home community for more than 10 years and Grand Chief of the Southern Chiefs’ Organization for two terms. He now serves as the President of the First Nations Confederacy of Cultural Education Centres and as a member of the Manitoba Indigenous Cultural Education Centre’s Board of Directors.

Mark Atleo

Mark Atleo

Survivor, Alberni Indian Residential School

The Alberni Residential School Survivors Art & Education Society was incorporated in 2024 and has a fluctuating membership of approximately 18-20 Survivors who attended the Alberni Indian Residential School in the 1960s. In 2013 with the support of TRC Commemoration Funding Survivors worked with staff and faculty at the University of Victoria (Dr. Andrea Walsh, Honourary Witness to the TRC) to repatriate a collection of 75 paintings created by children who attended the school during the 1960s. Since this time, the AIRS Survivors have used the paintings in Indigenous-led healing initiatives, and in public education about residential schools through their exhibition in galleries, museums, and school programming in British Columbia and Ontario. The Survivor’s stories are part of the permanent Canada Hall exhibition at the Canadian Museum of History. The Alberni Residential School Survivors Art and Education Society supports and delivers opportunities for Alberni Indian Residential School Survivors and their families to participate in artistic, educational, and social gatherings with a focus on education and healing from the legacy of residential schools in Canada. Members of the Society participate in public education initiatives on the topic of residential schools and reconciliation.

Harry Bone

Elder Dr. Harry Bone

Need title

Elder Dr. Harry Bone is a respected Knowledge Keeper and Anishinaabe leader from Keeseekoowenin First Nation. A former Chief and education leader for Keeseekoowenin Ojibway Nation, Elder Bone has worked tirelessly to preserve and share Indigenous knowledge and traditional laws. He has dedicated many years to reconciliation efforts, championing Indigenous rights and fostering understanding between Indigenous and non-Indigenous communities.

Tréchelle Bunn

Tréchelle Bunn

Chief of Birdtail Sioux Dakota Nation

Tréchelle Bunn is the first woman and youngest person ever elected Chief of Birdtail Sioux Dakota Nation, and one of the youngest serving Chiefs in Canada.

She graduated with distinction from the University of Manitoba with a Bachelor’s degree in Criminology and a minor in Indigenous Studies. She is now pursuing a law degree at Robson Hall, the Faculty of Law at the University of Manitoba.

A dedicated advocate for Indigenous rights and youth empowerment, Tréchelle has spoken on provincial, national, and international stages, including at the United Nations. She is the founder of the Reconciliation Run, Canada’s first National Day for Truth and Reconciliation half-marathon, and the creator of the first Indigenous student-athlete scholarship at the University of Manitoba.

Her leadership and advocacy have been recognized with numerous honours, including the Indspire First Nations Youth Award, the King Charles III Coronation Medal, the CBC Manitoba Future 40 Award, and the University of Manitoba Outstanding Young Alumni Award.

Andrew Carrier

Andrew Carrier

BA, RPT, CHRP

Andrew Carrier is a prominent Métis leader based in Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada.  First elected in 2000 with the National Government of the Red River Métis, the Manitoba Métis Federation – MMF as the Regional Director for the Winnipeg Region and in 2018 as the Vice-President for the Winnipeg Region.  Andrew is on the MMF Cabinet and is the Minister responsible for:

  • Red River Métis Community Resource Department
  • Michif Language
  • French Language Services
  • Riel House
  • Métis Residential, Day School Survivors
  • Associate Minister of Economic Development
  • Associate Minister for the Métis Heritage Trust Fund

Andrew Carrier has a Bachelor of Arts degree from the University of Manitoba and holds a Bilingual Business Administration Diploma from the St. Boniface Technical College. He is a Registered Professional Trainer and a Certified Human Resource Practitioner.

In 2017, Andrew Carrier completed 30 years of service with the Province of Manitoba and is currently serving his eighth term in office with the Manitoba Métis Federation.

Additionally, since 2010 to present, Andrew Carrier is the Chairperson for The Indigenous Leadership Development Institute, overseeing the World Indigenous Business Forum and is the Métis representative at The National Centre for Truth and Reconciliation – Governing Circle.

Francine Compton

Francine Compton

Associate Director of the Indigenous Journalists Association (IJA)

Francine Compton is a journalist whose work focuses on upholding Indigenous journalism standards and practices internationally. She is currently the associate director of the Indigenous Journalists Association (IJA), (formerly the Native American Journalists Association or NAJA). She previously served as President of NAJA for three consecutive terms. She was also the board treasurer for one term before her presidency. While president, she was responsible for leading the organization through a name change, starting the process of updating all governing documents, a global expansion strategy and producing an international conference in Winnipeg. Francine worked at the Canadian Broadcasting Corporation (CBC) as an assignment producer in the CBC’s Indigenous Unit before joining the IJA staff. She spent over 20 years of her career working for the Aboriginal Peoples Television Network (APTN) and was the executive producer of APTN News when she left to join the CBC.

Jeffrey Cook

Jeffrey Cook

Survivor, Alberni Indian Residential School

The Alberni Residential School Survivors Art & Education Society was incorporated in 2024 and has a fluctuating membership of approximately 18-20 Survivors who attended the Alberni Indian Residential School in the 1960s. In 2013 with the support of TRC Commemoration Funding Survivors worked with staff and faculty at the University of Victoria (Dr. Andrea Walsh, Honourary Witness to the TRC) to repatriate a collection of 75 paintings created by children who attended the school during the 1960s. Since this time, the AIRS Survivors have used the paintings in Indigenous-led healing initiatives, and in public education about residential schools through their exhibition in galleries, museums, and school programming in British Columbia and Ontario. The Survivor’s stories are part of the permanent Canada Hall exhibition at the Canadian Museum of History. The Alberni Residential School Survivors Art and Education Society supports and delivers opportunities for Alberni Indian Residential School Survivors and their families to participate in artistic, educational, and social gatherings with a focus on education and healing from the legacy of residential schools in Canada. Members of the Society participate in public education initiatives on the topic of residential schools and reconciliation.

Sherri Cook

Sherri Cook

Survivor, Alberni Indian Residential School

The Alberni Residential School Survivors Art & Education Society was incorporated in 2024 and has a fluctuating membership of approximately 18-20 Survivors who attended the Alberni Indian Residential School in the 1960s. In 2013 with the support of TRC Commemoration Funding Survivors worked with staff and faculty at the University of Victoria (Dr. Andrea Walsh, Honourary Witness to the TRC) to repatriate a collection of 75 paintings created by children who attended the school during the 1960s. Since this time, the AIRS Survivors have used the paintings in Indigenous-led healing initiatives, and in public education about residential schools through their exhibition in galleries, museums, and school programming in British Columbia and Ontario. The Survivor’s stories are part of the permanent Canada Hall exhibition at the Canadian Museum of History. The Alberni Residential School Survivors Art and Education Society supports and delivers opportunities for Alberni Indian Residential School Survivors and their families to participate in artistic, educational, and social gatherings with a focus on education and healing from the legacy of residential schools in Canada. Members of the Society participate in public education initiatives on the topic of residential schools and reconciliation.

Karen Courchene

Karen Courchene

Grandmother-in-residence, University of Manitoba

Karen Courchene, Grandmother-in-Residence at the Indigenous Student Centre, is a member of the Respectful Rematriation Repatriation Ceremony (RRRC) Council of Elders, Knowledge Keepers, Grandmothers and Grandfathers. “Hello my name is Blue Thunder Cloud from the Bear Clan. I’m from Sagkeeng First Nation and got married, then transferred to Peguis First Nation. I am a teacher by trade. I’ve been in the classroom for over 30 years and I’m currently living in Winnipeg”.

Jennifer David

Jennifer David

Senior Consultant and Lead, Truth & Reconciliation Service Basket at NVision Insight Group

Jennifer David has worked in the field of Indigenous communications and consulting for 25 years. Prior to consulting, Jennifer was the Director of Communications for the Aboriginal Peoples Television Network. She started her own communications consulting company as a youth entrepreneur.

A member of Chapleau Cree First Nation, Jennifer is of mixed ancestry and was born and raised in Omushkego/Treaty 9 territory (Northeastern Ontario).

Jennifer has degrees in Journalism and English literature from Carleton University. In 2003, Jennifer became a partner and is currently a Senior Consultant and minority shareholder of NVision Insight Group, a majority Indigenous-owned consulting company. She oversees an area of practice called Truth and Reconciliation, and manages the development and offerings of NVision’s suite of cultural awareness and cultural competency courses and presentations, under the banner of The Path.

As a skilled and experienced communicator, researcher, published writer and facilitator, Jennifer brings energy, creativity, and professionalism to every project, driven by her commitment to the promotion of Indigenous communities and cultures, and to amplifying First Nations, Inuit and Métis voices.

She sits on the board of the Aboriginal Peoples Television Network and writes freelance articles on Indigenous art for the National Gallery of Canada magazine. She is married and a mom of two teens. In her spare time, she’s a voracious reader of Indigenous literature. She co-hosted a podcast called Storykeepers: Let’s Talk Indigenous Books.

Chastity Davis

Chastity Davis-Alphonse

Principal, Chastity Davis Consulting

Chastity Davis-Alphonse is a mixed heritage woman of First Nations and European descent. She is a proud member of the Tla’amin Nation and married into the Tsilhqot’in Nation. Chastity is sole proprietor to her own multi-award-winning consulting business. She has worked with 100+ First Nation communities in British Columbia and several well-known corporations, companies, not-for-profits, and Indigenous organizations. Chastity’s work is completed in the spirit of reconciliation and focuses on building knowledge and capacities for both Indigenous and non-Indigenous individuals, organizations, communities, and governments.

Chastity’s approach is from an Indigenous women’s lens. She is on the leading edge of Indigenous Gender-Based Analysis Plus (IGBA+) in Canada working with the federal and provincial governments, Tsilhqot’in National Government, British Columbia Assembly of First Nations, and several others to weave the Indigenous women’s lens into their daily practices including Impact Assessment processes, policies, and procedures.

Chastity is creator and visionary of “Deyen – An Invitation to Transform” – one of the only online learning platforms in the world that centers the wisdom, knowledge, and lived experiences of the original Matriarchs of the lands often called Canada. She is also Editor of one of the only Indigenous Business Magazines in Canada titled Makook pi Selim (Chinook Jargon/Language) published in partnership with Business In Vancouver (BIV). Makook pi Selim is in its second year of publications and features 100% Indigenous writers and covers a wide and deep variety of topics as they relate to Indigenous Peoples and economic development.

Chastity has a Master of Arts in Intercultural and International Communications, a Bachelor of Arts in Professional Communication, and a Diploma in Marketing Management & Professional Sales from BCIT. Chastity is also a certified yoga teacher in two modalities: Yin and Kundalini. She weaves the ancient practice and philosophy of yoga into her personal and professional life.

Verna DeMontigny

Verna DeMontigny

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In 1986, Verna DeMontigny became involved in the Manitoba Métis Federation and worked there as a Bingo and Canteen worker. She also worked at Southwest Daycare as cook/cleaner and Childcare Worker for many years. After regretfully retiring from Southwest Daycare, she went on to work as a Membership/Harvesting Clerk at Manitoba Métis Federation.

Maintaining her strong cultural traditions and ancestral language of Michif, Verna became a Michif Language Coordinator for the Southwest Region’s Michif Language Program after retiring. She also served as a professor at Brandon University and taught Michif in the Brandon School Division. Verna has worked with various Michif language linguists—transcribing materials and contributing in many other ways to preserve the language she loves so deeply.

Over the last 20 years, Verna has taught the Michif language in many different settings through various organizations focused on language revitalization. She has also attended numerous language conferences to support this important work.

Verna has served on several boards, including the Southwest Local Management Board, the Michif Language Advisory Committee, Southwest Daycare, and Grand Valley Local, among others.

In addition to her language work, Verna is an accomplished craftswoman and storyteller. She enjoys beading, making sashes and rugs, preserving berries and food, and sewing—she loves working with her hands.

She holds extensive knowledge of subsistence practices cherished in the Michif culture. She still harvests today and is well known for her homemade canned goods and jams.

As an experienced teacher, Verna has helped preserve many traditions and oral teachings, sharing them with family, friends, and the broader community. She is actively involved with the Little Teaching Lodge, Assiniboine Community College, and schools in the Brandon School Division, offering cultural presentations. She also participates in cultural events throughout the Southwest Region, generously sharing her knowledge as she gains more experience.

Born in 1951, Verna DeMontigny has worked tirelessly to preserve the ancestral knowledge and language passed down to her by her parents and ancestors. Raised in a small Métis community and living a traditional lifestyle in a log cabin, she later raised her family as a single parent, returned to school after 32 years, and has remained committed to maintaining the oral teachings and language of her people.

Verna believes that language and traditional practices are the cornerstones of Métis culture. She is a powerful example of how adaptability, persistence, and strong willpower can lead to lasting impact and success.

Jonathan Dewar

Jonathan Dewar

PhD, Chief Executive Officer, First Nations Information Governance Centre

The FNIGC leads national-level research, designing and implementing surveys, including the longstanding First Nations Regional Health Survey, and related research and public health initiatives, and provides information governance and OCAP® education and training.

He has spent most of his career directing research and knowledge translation initiatives for national Indigenous-led organizations. During that time, his work has focused on governance, strategic planning, health and well-being, data sovereignty, arts and literatures, and truth, healing and reconciliation.

Jonathan previously served as the Director General and Vice President, Collections, Research, Exhibitions and Repatriation at the Canadian Museum of History; Director of the Shingwauk Residential Schools Centre and Special Advisor to the President at Algoma University; and Director of Research at the Aboriginal Healing Foundation, among other leadership roles.

Jonathan received a doctorate from the School of Indigenous and Canadian Studies at Carleton University and holds an appointment as Adjunct Research Professor in the Department of Sociology and Anthropology. He also serves in many volunteer capacities, including as a member of the Board of Directors of the Queensway Carleton Hospital, where he is also Chair of the Governance and Nominations Committee, and as a member of the inaugural Board of Directors for the National Council for Reconciliation.

Born and raised in the unceded and unsurrendered territory of the Algonquin Nation (Ottawa), Jonathan is of Scottish- and French-Canadian heritage and a member of the Huron Wendat Nation.

Cambria Harris

Cambria Harris

Youth Advocate, MMIWG2S and Search the Landfill Movement

Cambria Harris, also known by her spirit name West Flying Sparrow Woman, is a proud member of Long Plain First Nation and a dedicated mother. At 24 years old, she has become one of the leading voices behind the #SearchTheLandfill movement, following the tragic loss of her mother, Morgan Harris, and three other women who were murdered by a serial killer in December 2022. Cambria speaks with powerful honesty about her journey of resilience, strength, and advocacy, sharing both her story and her mother’s legacy in the ongoing fight for justice for MMIWG2S+.

Cheryl McKenzie

Cheryl McKenzie

Executive Director of News and Current Affairs / Executive Management, APTN

Cheryl McKenzie is Anishinaabe and Cree with her dad’s side of the family from the Hollow Water First Nation and her mom’s side from the Peguis First Nation in Manitoba.

Cheryl earned a degree in philosophy from the University of Winnipeg. Her studies in seeking out truth and logical arguments proved to be essential skills when she joined APTN as a reporter in June 2001. Since then, she has worked with APTN News as a host/producer, executive producer and currently as executive director.

Norman Meade

Norman Meade

Elder-in-Residence, University of Manitoba

Norman Meade, Elder-in-Residence at the Indigenous Student Centre, is a member of the Respectful Rematriation Repatriation Ceremony (RRRC) Council of Elders, Knowledge Keepers, Grandmothers and Grandfathers. Norman was born in Bissett, Manitoba, but grew up in the Métis settlement of Manigotagan. Norman is active in the community serving as an Elder and a Pastor. He serves on various boards in the city of Winnipeg. He is also an avid curler and is the founder of the Aboriginal Curling League of Winnipeg.

Cary Miller

Dr. Cary Miller

Associate Professor, Department of Indigenous Studies, UofM

Cary Miller is a 60’s scoop survivor whose original families are from Anishinaabe communities of St. Croix and Leech Lake in the United States. She received her Ph.D. from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill in 2004 and returned home to teach at the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee 2002-2017 where she also served as Director of American Indian Studies. In 2017 she joined the University of Manitoba as an Associate Professor and Department Head of Native Studies (July 1, 2017 – June 30, 2022) and currently serves as Associate Professor in the Department of Indigenous Studies. Miller’s research interests include Anishinaabe leadership in the early 19th century, Anishinaabe women’s history, Treaties and sovereignty, Wisconsin Indian History, and Cultures of the Great Lakes Region.

Cary Miller is the author of the book Ogimaag: Anishinaabeg leadership 1760-1845 (2010), which re-examines Ojibwe leadership practices and processes in the late eighteenth and early nineteenth centuries. Miller uses research produced by Ojibwe themselves, American and British officials, and individuals who dealt with the Ojibwe, both in official and unofficial capacities. By examining the hereditary position of leaders who served as civil authorities over land and resources and the interrelated non-hereditary roles of the warriors, and the respected religious leaders of the Midewiwin society, as well as the economic and political roles of Anishinaabe women Miller provides an important new perspective on Ojibwe history.

Josie Nepinak

Josie Nepinak

President, Native Women’s Association of Canada

Josie Nepinak is a proud Anishinaabe woman from Treaty Four, with roots in Minegoziibe Anishinabe. She believes in a balanced approach that combines Indigenous wisdom and healing with contemporary Western methodologies to promote the health and well-being of First Nations, Inuit, and Métis individuals, families, and communities.

Her extensive background spans over 30 years in executive leadership roles, where she has addressed complex social issues while working with Indigenous organizations and advocating for Indigenous women and families affected by family violence. Josie holds a bachelor’s degree in Women’s Studies and continues her professional development in management. She chaired the Calgary Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women Committee and is affiliated with numerous national and provincial boards and councils.

Pat Ningewance

Patricia Ningewance

Language Professor, Survivor, Translator

Waabibizhikiikwe (Pat Ningewance), Bear Clan, is from Lac Seul First Nation in northwestern Ontario. A respected translator, teacher, writer, and publisher of Indigenous languages, she currently serves as an Assistant Professor at the University of Manitoba. Pat was the lead translator for Star Wars in Anishinaabemowin and has dedicated her life to the revitalization and preservation of Indigenous languages.

She is a proud mother to Maeengan and grandmother to Aandeg. A residential school survivor, Pat attended Pelican Residential School at the age of five and later Shingwauk Residential School in Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario. Her lived experience continues to inform her work and advocacy. She also has a deep love for cats.

Pahan PteSanWin

Pahan PteSanWin

Respectful Rematriation Repatriation Ceremony Co-Chair, University of Manitoba

Pahan PteSanWin, as one of three co-chairs of the Respectful Rematriation and Repatriation Ceremony (RRRC) along with Drs. Lorena Sekwan Fontaine and Lara Rosenoff Gauvin, supports the UM to truth-tell and return Indigenous Ancestral remains and belongings – taken and/or held by the university without consent – to descendant communities. Pahan views the “return, restore, revive” process as concrete steps to justice and an opportunity to heal. As a Vanier scholar, her doctoral studies research considers the potential of rematriation as a conceptual framework to guide Canadian heritage-holding institutions toward return and reparations.

Michael Redhead Champagne

Michael Redhead Champagne

Matriarch Movement, APTN

Michael Redhead Champagne is working towards a revolution that dismantles harmful systems and builds up new ones based on justice, equity, and love. A community leader from Winnipeg’s North End with family roots in Shamattawa First Nation, Michael is host, helper, published author, on-screen personality and sought after public speaker. Michael happily shares his words, wisdom, and welcoming energy across Canada and around the world.

Michael believes Indigenous knowledge will save the world and this can be seen in his commitment to Ininew concepts such as wahkotowin, mino bimadisiwin & sakihitowin. He is actively working on reclaiming his Ininew language and has started a language nest at the St John’s Public Library. Whether it’s eliminating poverty, ending homelessness or increasing support for children, youth and families, he is relentless in his pursuit of a more compassionate world. He organizes the annual North End Grad Walk, the North End Historical Society and is a board member for Fearless R2W & the Manitoba Health Coalition.

You can find him speaking out about poverty, politics and reconciliation on podcasts, video projects and in the news. Featured on multiple TEDx Talks, APTN’s Michif Country & First Contact, Michael is also developing a number of storytelling and multimedia projects. He loves family friendly jokes, Tetris, Stevie Wonder music and celebrating the success of others. Michael’s first children’s book, We Need Everyone, from HighWater Press is now available everywhere books are sold.

Melissa Rigden

Melissa Rigden

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Melissa Ridgen is a multi-awarding winning journalist and Red River Metis who has been telling stories across western Canada for three decades. Investigative reporting is in her blood and a passion is exposing truths in the child welfare industry. She was formerly an APTN National News anchor and currently works as network managing editor for Global News.
Lara Rosenoff Gauvin

Lara Rosenoff Gauvin

Respectful Rematriation Repatriation Ceremony Co-Chair and Associate Professor, University of Manitoba

Lara Rosenoff Gauvin is one of three co-chairs of the University of Manitoba’s Respectful Rematriation and Repatriation Ceremony (RRRC), along with Pahan PteSanWin and Dr. Lorena Sekwan Fontaine. As the granddaughter of Holocaust survivors, she understands the acquisition of Indigenous Ancestors and heritage by settler institutions as a direct result of dehumanizing colonial and settler-colonial genocide and is committed to this work as urgent and necessary steps in relational repair and atonement. Dr. Rosenoff Gauvin is a mother, scholar, artist and Associate Professor of Cultural Anthropology at the University of Manitoba.

Tammy Squitti

Tammy Squitti

Survivor, Alberni Indian Residential School

The Alberni Residential School Survivors Art & Education Society was incorporated in 2024 and has a fluctuating membership of approximately 18-20 Survivors who attended the Alberni Indian Residential School in the 1960s. In 2013 with the support of TRC Commemoration Funding Survivors worked with staff and faculty at the University of Victoria (Dr. Andrea Walsh, Honourary Witness to the TRC) to repatriate a collection of 75 paintings created by children who attended the school during the 1960s. Since this time, the AIRS Survivors have used the paintings in Indigenous-led healing initiatives, and in public education about residential schools through their exhibition in galleries, museums, and school programming in British Columbia and Ontario. The Survivor’s stories are part of the permanent Canada Hall exhibition at the Canadian Museum of History. The Alberni Residential School Survivors Art and Education Society supports and delivers opportunities for Alberni Indian Residential School Survivors and their families to participate in artistic, educational, and social gatherings with a focus on education and healing from the legacy of residential schools in Canada. Members of the Society participate in public education initiatives on the topic of residential schools and reconciliation.

Shayla Stonechild

Shayla Stonechild

Matriarch Movement, APTN

Shayla Stonechild is an Indigenous Canadian model and health and wellness advocate. She is best known for competing in the ninth season of The Amazing Race Canada as a team with her brother, actor Joel Oulette,[2] and appearing as an advocate in the 2025 edition of Canada Reads.

Originally from Medicine Hat, Alberta,[4] she is a member of the Muscowpetung Saulteaux Nation. She moved to Vancouver, British Columbia to study acting at the Vancouver Academy of Dramatic Arts, graduating in 2014 and later having supporting or guest roles in the television series Klondike, Siren and Tales from the Rez, and the theatrical film Indian Road Trip.

After being introduced to yoga by fellow actress Grace Dove, she gained prominence as an online influencer when she launched Matriarch Movement, a podcast and social networking platform to highlight and promote stories about Iindigenous health, personal development and creativity. She has also been a brand ambassador for Lululemon, and a television host of APTN’s Red Earth Uncovered and Entertainment Tonight Canada’s annual Indigenous Artists & Icons specials.

Kim Sullivan

Kim Sullivan

Host-Reporter | Montréal, APTN

Kim began her career as a teacher for the deaf but quickly discovered her true calling in broadcasting. After 12 years in radio, hosting community television shows on a variety of topics – from checking off bucket list items to supporting local organizations – Kim spent eight years with Global News Montreal as a weather specialist and community reporter. Growing up with a father of Irish ancestry and a mother of Indigenous heritage (Nunatsiavut), Kim takes pride in connecting with her roots through the vibrant communities of Montreal and is excited to lend her voice to APTN.

Fran Tait

Fran Tait

Survivor, Alberni Indian Residential School

The Alberni Residential School Survivors Art & Education Society was incorporated in 2024 and has a fluctuating membership of approximately 18-20 Survivors who attended the Alberni Indian Residential School in the 1960s. In 2013 with the support of TRC Commemoration Funding Survivors worked with staff and faculty at the University of Victoria (Dr. Andrea Walsh, Honourary Witness to the TRC) to repatriate a collection of 75 paintings created by children who attended the school during the 1960s. Since this time, the AIRS Survivors have used the paintings in Indigenous-led healing initiatives, and in public education about residential schools through their exhibition in galleries, museums, and school programming in British Columbia and Ontario. The Survivor’s stories are part of the permanent Canada Hall exhibition at the Canadian Museum of History. The Alberni Residential School Survivors Art and Education Society supports and delivers opportunities for Alberni Indian Residential School Survivors and their families to participate in artistic, educational, and social gatherings with a focus on education and healing from the legacy of residential schools in Canada. Members of the Society participate in public education initiatives on the topic of residential schools and reconciliation.

Wanbdi Wakita

Wanbdi Wakita

Grandfather-in-Residence, University of Manitoba

Wanbdi Wakita, Grandfather in Residence of the University of Manitoba’s (UM) Access Program, is a member of the Respectful Rematriation Repatriation Ceremony (RRRC) Council of Elders, Knowledge Keepers, Grandmothers and Grandfathers. As a residential school survivor, peacekeeper with the Canadian Armed Forces, former Chief of Sioux Valley Dakota Nation (Wipazoka Wakpa Dakota Oyate), and Sundance Chief, Wanbdi has walked many paths. In 2016, he received the Order of Manitoba. In 2025, he will be honoured at the Keeping the Fires Burning gala for his lifelong contributions to the community through sharing and preserving Traditional Dakota Knowledge and practice.

Andrea Naomi Walsh

Andrea Naomi Walsh, Ph.D.

Associate Professor and Smyth Chair in Arts and Engagement, Department of Anthropology at the University of Victoria

Andrea Walsh is an Associate Professor of Anthropology in the Department of Anthropology and the Smyth Chair of Arts and Engagement at the University of Victoria. Trained as a visual artist and printmaker, her research is arts-methods based and focused on visual storytelling through exhibitions and through graphic narratives produced by drawing, printing, and digital imagery. Her work focuses on repatriation of children’s art to Survivors from Indian Residential and Day Schools and working with families and communities to co-create and curate exhibitions and education opportunities with the artworks. Alongside Alberni Indian Residential School Survivors, Walsh has worked in collaboration with Dr. Jamie Trepanier at the Canadian Museum of History to teach stories of repatriation as reconciliation through exhibitions and education platforms. She has collaborated with families from the Osoyoos Indian Band for over 24 years on the story of the Inkameep Day School.

Mary Simon

Her Excellency the Right Honourable

Mary Simon

Governor General of Canada

Her Excellency the Right Honourable Mary Simon was sworn in on July 26, 2021, as Canada’s first Indigenous governor general. She is the 30th governor general since Confederation.

Mary Simon was born on August 20, 1947, in Kangiqsualujjuaq, Nunavik (Quebec), to Nancy May (Angnatuk-Askew), her Inuk mother, and Bob Mardon May, her English father who worked for the Hudson’s Bay Company.

Ms. Simon gained national and international recognition for her work on Arctic and Indigenous issues and for her efforts in advocating for Inuit rights, youth and culture.

Ms. Simon began her career as a radio broadcaster with the CBC Northern Service (now CBC North) in the 1970s. Following this, she held a series of executive positions with the Northern Quebec Inuit Association (now Makivik Corporation) and Inuit Tapiriit Kanatami, centred on negotiating the first land claims agreement in Canada, the James Bay and Northern Quebec Agreement. As president of Makivik Corporation, she was directly involved with the implementation of the agreement, along with the protection and promotion of Inuit rights.

Along with fellow Indigenous leaders, she was also actively involved in the negotiations leading to the 1982 patriation of the Canadian Constitution, which formally entrenched Aboriginal and treaty rights in the supreme law of Canada.

She later joined the executive council of the Inuit Circumpolar Conference (now the Inuit Circumpolar Council), for which she served two terms as president. In addition, she was commissioner of the Nunavut Implementation Commission and policy co-director of the Royal Commission on Aboriginal Peoples.

From 1994 to 2003, Ms. Simon served as ambassador for Circumpolar Affairs, becoming the first Inuk to hold an ambassadorial position. During this time, she negotiated the creation of the Arctic Council. Concurrently, she served as ambassador of Canada to Denmark from 1999 to 2001.

Beginning in 2006, Ms. Simon served two terms as president of Inuit Tapiriit Kanatami. In 2008, in the House of Commons, she delivered a response on behalf of Inuit to the formal apology on residential schools. She is the founder of the Arctic Children and Youth Foundation and, until 2014, she was the chairperson of the National Committee on Inuit Education.

In 2017, as the Minister’s Special Representative, Ms. Simon delivered a report to the Minister of Indigenous and Northern Affairs on A new Shared Arctic Leadership Model, setting the stage for important policy and program development in support of the Arctic and its residents.

Among other distinctions, Ms. Simon is an Officer of the Ordre national du Québec. She is also a recipient of the Governor General’s Northern Medal, the Gold Order of Greenland, the National Aboriginal Achievement Award, the Gold Medal of the Canadian Geographical Society and the Symons Medal.

Upon becoming governor general, Ms. Simon was promoted by Queen Elizabeth II to the level of Companion of the Order of Canada (C.C.), and invested as Commander of the Order of Military Merit (C.M.M.) and Commander of the Order of Merit for Police Forces (C.O.M.). Queen Elizabeth II was the Sovereign of these Orders at the time.

Ms. Simon plays the accordion and loves berry picking and nature. She is anaana (mother) to a daughter and two sons, anaanatsiaq (grandmother) to 12 children and amauq (great-grandmother) to four children. She also has three stepchildren from her marriage in 1994 to Mr. Whit Fraser, former head of the Canadian Polar Commission, former executive director of Inuit Tapiriit Kanatami and a former long-time CBC journalist.

Photo credit: Sgt Johanie Maheu, Rideau Hall © OSGG-BSGG, 2021

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