Our day of gathering and learning aims to help inform delivery of successful Indigenous Mentoring in schools, organizations, and agencies working with Indigenous youth. Attendees can expect to practice ceremony and participate in sharing circles representing the four Rs: Respect, Relevance, Reciprocity, and Responsibility, and how these principles frame our approach to and understanding of mentoring.
We are honoured to welcome Elder Flora Northwest of Samson Cree Nation at Maskwacis, as our keynote speaker. Flora Northwest is a member of the Samson Cree Nation, a mother and a grandmother.
Flora grew up being greatly influenced by her culture and family. Flora is a survivor of residential school where she was traumatized from the treatment she received there. Throughout her life, Flora struggled with her mental health. She took a huge step towards healing when she admitted herself into a detox center in 1974. While there, Flora reflected on the traumas in her life that gave her the strength to heal and help others. Flora worked at the Detox Center, Medical Services Branch, Mayoskan Counseling Services, and Native Counseling Services using her skills, life experiences and cultural ways to support others through their healing journey. Since 1986, Flora has been working with children at Maskwacîs Education Schools Commission as an Elder.
With everything Flora endured as a child in school, she wants to make sure every child has a chance to have the best future. Flora is an active member in her community. She has been involved as a health representative, community service volunteer, and spreads awareness of the lasting damage endured by survivors and the intergenerational trauma that continues to impact Indigenous communities today. Flora has also been guiding, supporting, and mentoring with the Indigenous Youth Mentorship Program (IYMP) since 2020.
Flora's healing journey has helped not just herself and her family but many people struggling with identity, belonging and addictions by following the words of her Kokum (grandmother):
"Be kind to yourself and give yourself a life that everyone deserves - a life filled with happiness."
