Guests - Institute for Canadian Citizenship

December 2024

Arlene Twin

Cree Knowledge Keeper

She/Her

Arlene is a Cree knowledge keeper from Swan River First Nation with education in spirituality, mental health, education, and fitness. Passionate about culture, she supports healing, promotes Cree traditions, and creates holistic healing experiences through her teachings.

Ellie Heath

Singer Songwriter, Copywriter, Playwright and Producer

She/Her

Ellie Heath is a champion of arts, local business and community building in Edmonton. She is a founding member of the sketch comedy troupe, Girl Brain, as well as a singer songwriter, copywriter, playwright, producer and all around creative human being.

Gurdeep Pandher

Dance Artist

Gurdeep Pandher is a Yukon-based, Bhangra dance artist. He lives in a small off-grid cabin in the wilderness near Lake Laberge. He creates dance videos in nature/outdoors and performances that bring people together. He is best known for spreading joy, hope and positivity during the pandemic. Millions of viewers throughout the world have watched his wilderness videos.

November 2024

Raymond Sewell

Poet, Singer-Songwriter, and English Professor

Raymond Sewell is an l’nu poet, singer-songwriter, and English professor from Pabineau, First Nation, New-Brunswick. Since a young age Raymond has been writing and producing creative works. Raymond currently lives in Bedford, Nova Scotia and is inspired by the ocean. Raymond constantly promotes Indigenous excellence and intellectualism providing many public performances and lectures.

Elsy Makhlouf

Singer, Songwriter and Guitarist

Elsy Makhlouf is a talented singer/songwriter and guitarist with six years of classical training. She performs in multiple languages and has graced renowned stages across Canada. As a seasoned entrepreneur, she founded Lively PR in 2017 and is a Platinum Jubilee Community Hero, dedicated to various charitable causes.

Karina Royk

Singer

Karina Royk, originally from Ukraine, has been living in Canada for two and a half years. She has been singing for 15 years in the genres of pop and jazz, performing at various events such as weddings, festivals, and birthdays.

Lyndon J Linklater

Indigenous Relations Advisor

He is a citizen of the Thunderchild First Nation (Plains Cree) in Treaty 6 and has roots in Couchiching First Nation (Fort Francis, Ontario) in Treaty 3. Presently, Lyndon shares work with the Remai Modern Art Museum as their Indigenous Relations Advisor providing advice to their board and staff and delivering cultural programming.

Marie-Véronique Bourque

Jazz Flutist and Singer-Songwriter

Saskatchewan jazz flutist and singer-songwriter Marie-Véronique Bourque is a Trille Or and Saskatchewan Music Awards nominee. Finalist of the Unsigned Only Competition, Marie-Véronique also performed as a soloist with the National Flute Association Jazz Flute Big Band. She has released two albums: Une porte s’ouvre and Entre Québec & Saskatchewan. Born in Québec City, Marie-Véronique has toured in Canada and abroad. She was a member of the Royal Canadian Mounted Police for 25 years prior to retirement.

Dr. Verne Ross

Professor and Traditional Knowledge Keeper

He/Him

Dr. Verne Ross, a Professor and Traditional Knowledge Keeper from Cote First Nation (Sealteaux, Treaty 4, Saskatchewan), began his career in the mid-1980s advocating for Indigenous families in Regina hospitals. Founder of an Indigenous Health Program at Pasqua Hospital, he collaborates with traditional healers and interpreters in communities.

Tishani Campbell

Singer

Tishani Campbell was born in Canada with a passion for the arts and culture. She has a rich Jamaican heritage driving her into her love of music and rhythm. Tishani started her musical journey sing on the RFMI choir and later moved on to preforming at weddings and other events.

Vishal Bedi

Flute Player

He/Him

Vishal Bedi, a flute player from Toronto, specializes in playing the Indian flute (Bansuri). After receiving professional training from his Guruji, Vishal Bedi has been captivating audiences for the past ten years in both India and Canada.

Elder Clarence Wolfleg Sr.

Siksika Traditional Spiritual Leader by Siksika Nation and Spiritual Advisor

He/Him

Presently Clarence is recognized as a Siksika Traditional Spiritual Leader by Siksika Nation and is a spiritual advisor (Elder) at MRU, BVC (Iniikokaan Centre), Sunrise Addiction Services, Heritage Park, Calgary Board of Education, SAIT, and City of Calgary.

Dallas Hayes-Sparks

Opera Singer

She/Her

Dallas Hayes-Sparks is a singer – specializing in opera – from Calgary, Alberta. She is a graduate of the University of British Columbia majoring in opera performance and psychology. She is also an honours graduate of the Mount Royal Vocal Academy for Gifted Students.

Dr. Laura Forsythe

Michif Assistant Professor at the University of Winnipeg

She/Her

Dr. Laura Forsythe is a Michif Assistant Professor at the University of Winnipeg in the Faculty of Education. Forsythe’s research focus is Métis-specific contributions to the academy, Métis inclusion efforts, Métis research methodologies, and educational sovereignty.

Joy Robinson

Singer, Songwriter, and Theatre Artist

Joy Robinson is a singer, songwriter, and theatre artist based in Calgary, Alberta. Passionate about storytelling, she creates music and theatre that evoke emotions, connect with audiences, and offer meaningful experiences both live and digitally.

Monika Wall

Singer and Songwriter

Canadian singer/songwriter Monika Wall has roots in spirituals, a Masters Degree in Vocal Performance/Opera from world renowned Indiana University and is influenced by pop, folk and R&B. She has performed on stages in Europe, USA and Canada.

October 2024

Ankita Nandawat

Singer

She/Her

Ankita hails from Jaipur, Rajasthan, India and has been recognized as one of the best vocalists in North America in Eastern, semi-classical and Bollywood music. She sings in multiple languages and a wide array of genres. She is a proud Canadian working her way towards her musical journey as a world music artist.

Dr. Gerard Roberts & Peta-Gay Roberts

Speakers and Wampum Carriers

Gerard and Peta-Gay are international speakers, ordained with Indigenous Messengers International, and as a family the Roberts are ‘Wampum Carriers’ of the Grand River Six Nations.

Miranda Currie

Multi-Disciplinary Musician

She/Her

Miranda Currie is a northern Indigenous multi-disciplinary artist living in Yellowknife. She walks in two worlds, with one foot in her Swampy Cree heritage and the other foot in her Euro-Canadian ancestry.

Thierry Renaud

Singer

He/Him

Quebec native, Thierry has known how to bring a unique country/folk style to the city of Montreal. He grew up learning various instruments, but only in 2023, after traveling around the world, he decided to dedicate his time to writing original music and singing on stage. He learned fast how to craft and hone his art, blending the sound of Nashville to the sound of Montreal while bringing a tremendous touch of authenticity to his lyrics and his interpretation.

Patti Doyle Bedwell

Native Studies Instructor

She/Her

Patti is a Mi’kmaq woman. She teaches Introduction to Indigenous Studies in the Transition Year Program and in the Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences. She has been called on by local and national media for her expert commentary on diversity, human rights, Indigenous women, and politics and Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women.

Colleen Power

Singer-Songwriter & Broadcaster

She/Her

Colleen Power is an award-winning, bilingual singer/songwriter and broadcaster based in St. John’s, Newfoundland and Labrador. Colleen’s songwriting adventures come to life as host of Bell Fibe TV 1’s mini-series Sing Me Home, when she explores her province’s most uniquely named communities to learn their stories, and then compose and record songs about them.

Jeff Bryant

Songwriter

He/Him

Jeff Bryant is a songwriter based in Vancouver. Driven by a desire to share his music with heartfelt sincerity, Jeff is on a mission to forge genuine connections with others.

Terry Young

Program Manager, Indigenous Studies and Community Engagement Initiative

He/Him

Terry Young is Wolastoqiyik (Maliseet). He hails from Kingsclear First Nation located in New Brunswick. For the last 18 years, he’s resided on the Kahnawà:ke Territory of Tio’tia:ke (Montreal) with his husband Justin Mahoney. Young holds a Bachelor of Arts Degree from St. Thomas University, with a double major in Native Studies and Anthropology. He’s also received formal training on Community Planning and Development from Dalhousie University. Young is currently the Executive Director for the Native Friendship Centre of Montreal.

Ballet Folklórico Aztlán

Dancers

Ballet Folklórico Aztlán is dedicated to celebrating and preserving our rich traditions through the art of folk dance. They are committed to delivering exceptional performances that not only engage and captivate our audience but also offer educational programming of the highest quality to reach a diverse range of viewers.

Larry Grant

Elder-in-Residence

Elder Larry Grant, of mixed Chinese and xʷməθkʷəy̓əm (Musqueam) ancestry, was born on a hop field in Agassiz, BC, and raised in Musqueam territory. After retiring as a longshoreman, he enrolled in UBC’s First Nations Language Program to reconnect with his mother’s ancestral language, hən’q’əmin’əm’. He serves as Elder-in-Residence at UBC’s First Nations House of Learning and is a Faculty Fellow at St. John’s College.

Maria Cherwick

Violinist and fiddler

Violinist and fiddler Maria Cherwick performs with symphony orchestras and The Kubasonics. Twice named MusicNL “Side Musician of the Year,” she recently released her debut solo fiddle album and won MusicNL’s “Instrumental Artist of the Year.”

Carnival Spice

Fitness and Entertainment Company

Carnival Spice is an award-winning fitness and entertainment company devoted to showcasing and elevating Caribbean Carnival arts globally. Featured on CTV, Breakfast Television, and Season 12 of Real Housewives of Atlanta, and partnering with brands like Lululemon and Nike. Black-owned and women fueled, Carnival Spice is thrilled to celebrate with you.

September 2024

Dawn Saunders Dahl

European Descent and Red River Métis Ancestry

She/Her

Dawn Saunders Dahl, of European descent and Red River Métis ancestry (Ojibwe, Saulteaux, Chippewa) is gifted with a Iethka (Stoney) name. She maintains Studio 209 with the Artists of Elk Run in Canmore and holds positions at the Whyte Museum of the Canadian Rockies, Galerie Cite at La Cite Francophone in Edmonton, and as Curator of Indigenous Public Art for Adisoke, the Ottawa Public Library and National Library and Archives Joint Facility.

Stephanie O’Dette

Singer and Songwriter

She/Her

Stephanie O’Dette is a singer songwriter based in the Canadian Rockies. Inspired by the graceful resilient nature of the mountains, her voice reflects a steady sense of clarity and softness. She is a storyteller and a lover of humanity.

Lance Scout

Facilitator on Self-Care and Healing Inter-Generational Trauma

He/Him

Lance Scout is a member of the white weasel tribe located in Treaty Seven Lands. Lance has provided workshops in healing and wellness for over 30 years and has branched out into Treaty Six lands with passion and vision. Through sharing the indigenous ways of knowing and mentoring in humility, we can begin to release the cycle of adversity and enter the cycle of healing. “Culture is Prevention”

Jerry Hove

Bagpiper

He/Him

Coming from a family of pipers I have enjoyed piping over the past 6 years. He’s been encouraged to play the bagpipes by his brother and he’s been dedicated to the instrument right from the start. Apart from solo piping engagements, he’s honored to be able to perform with the Edmonton Police Pipes and Drums at many community events.

Elder Ann LaBillois

Elder in Residence at Dalhousie University

Ann LaBillois is a Mi’gmaw Elder from Ugpi’ganjig (Eel River Bar). Ms. Elder Ann LaBillois grew up in Boston, Massachusetts, moved back to Eel River Bar, worked as an addiction’s counsellor for 12 yrs.

Adria Jackson

Musician

She/Her

Adria Jackson’s silvery and otherworldly voice paired with the deep, haunting tones of her hand-crafted Celtic Lever Harp, made in Annapolis Valley, NS, exquisitely brings traditional ballads and classical songs to life.

Lauri Hoeg

Artist and Indigenous Trustee for the York Region District School Board

She/Her

Lauri Hoeg is Anishinaabe Kwe and a proud member of the Chippewas of Georgina Island First Nation where she lives, works and creates in her studio by the water called “Eagles in the East”. Lauri also has a degree in Indigenous Governance and Administration and is currently the Indigenous Trustee for the York Region District School Board.

Nadia Myre

Artist

She/Her

Nadia Myre is a Montreal-based Algonquin artist whose multidisciplinary work explores identity, language, longing, and loss. Using beadwork, she engages themes of Indigenous identity, resilience, and belonging, emphasizing participant involvement and collective memory.

Ainsley McNeaney

Singer-Songwriter

She/Her

Ainsley McNeaney is a Montréal-based singer-songwriter, multi-instrumentalist, music educator and composer with an honour’s degree in Percussion Performance from the University of Toronto.

Tiffany Ponce

R&B/Pop Singer-Songwriter

She/Her

Tiffany Ponce is an award-winning R&B/pop singer-songwriter from Winnipeg, Manitoba. As a follow-up to the release of her debut album “Only the Beginning”, Ponce released her sophomore album “Gratitude” in dedication to her supportive Filipino parents.

August 2024

Scott Jacobs

Singer

He/Him

Scott Jacobs’ music has taken him around the world, from playing festival gigs in Australia, singing in cruise ship lounges in Bora Bora, to even busking on the streets of his hometown of Vancouver. Currently he is releasing his 3rd album of original music.

Marc Forgette

Keynote Speaker | Lead Facilitator | Innovator at Makatew Workshops

He/Him

Marc Forgette is the founder and facilitator for Makatew Workshops, a Certified Aboriginal Business with the Canadian Council for Aboriginal Business. Makatew Workshops provides hands-on cultural awareness workshops to both Indigenous and non‐Indigenous groups. Marc is Algonquin and French and a member of the Apitipi Anicinapek Nation formerly Wahgoshig First Nation Band in Matheson Ontario.

Marianne Keuleman

Elder Catherine Tammaro

Spotted Turtle Clan FaithKeeper, Mentor, Teacher and Cultural Advisor

She/Her

Catherine Tammaro is a multi-disciplinary artist whose practice spans decades. Catherine is a seated Spotted Turtle Clan FaithKeeper and is active throughout the City of Toronto and beyond, in many organizations as Elder in Residence, Mentor, Teacher and Cultural Advisor.

Ankita Nandawat

Singer

She/Her

Raymond Gros-Louis

Eider and Wise Man

He/Him

Born in 1945, Raymond Gros-Louis is a Huron-Wendat from Wendake. After working as a mechanic, he embraced his cultural heritage full-time in 1992. Known as an Eider and Wise Man, he contributes to First Nations cultural awareness and received a recognition certificate for his restorative justice work in 2010.

Thierry Renaud

Singer

He/Him

Randy Morin

Storyteller, Author & Language Keeper

He/Him

Randy Morin is a teacher, storyteller and English-Cree translator from the Big River First Nation, Treaty Six area. He has a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Indigenous Studies and Bachelor of Education Degree.

Arlene Twin

Cree Knowledge Keeper

She/Her

Karella (DJ Diamond)

Soca-Soul Singer

She/Her

Soca-Soul singer Karella “DJ Diamond” Cummings left her Chemical Technologist career in Canada to study Sound Recording in Trinidad. She writes, produces, and performs in the Caribbean and beyond, specializing in soca music. Since 2019, she’s sung anthems for the Edmonton Eskimos.

July 2024

Amanda Martinez

Singer-Songwriter

She/Her

Amanda Martinez, a Canadian singer-songwriter of Mexican and South African descent, is celebrated for her unique blend of musical influences. Honored as Best World Music Artist by the Toronto Independent Music Awards and Composer of the Year by Latin Awards Canada, she’s performed sold-out shows and featured on five Putamayo label collections.

Vishal Bedi

Flute Player

He/Him

Elder Geri Musqua-LeBlanc

Elder

She/Her

Geri is a Saulteaux/Kanawake woman and has received the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee medal for her work in employment equity and social justice.

ScotianAires Chorus

A Cappella Chorus

The ScotianAires Chorus is an award-winning women’s a cappella chorus specializing in four-part harmony in the barbershop style. Directed by Sue Kember, its 60+ members are a diverse group of women of all ages from across the Halifax Regional Municipality.

Dr. Laura Forsythe

Michif Assistant Professor at the University of Winnipeg

She/Her

Tony Niu

Singer-Songwriter, and Multi-Instrumentalist

He/Him

Tony Niu is a Toronto-based musician, singer-songwriter, and multi-instrumentalist. He’s passionate about music and the performing arts

The Sadler Sisters

Singers & Songwriters

She/Her/They

Although their personalities may differ, they share many common musical influences and tastes. Hailing from Winnipeg Manitoba. The Sadler Sisters perform a mixture of pop covers and jazz standards while recently starting to dabble in their own songwriting. They enjoy creating paired-down acoustic arrangements of popular music infused with jazz stylings.

Ingrid D. Johnson

Poet, Spoken Word Artist, Short Film Maker & Singer-Songwriter

She/Her

Ingrid D. Johnson is a Jamaican/ Canadian published poet, spoken word recording artist, short film maker, and singer-songwriter who found her musical dream within a dream years ago, awaking to the humming of her first song that has led to a 16+ year career filled with soulful, socially conscious, poignant songwriting.

Dr. Verne Ross

Professor and Traditional Knowledge Keeper

He/Him

Sharonne Ngbilo

Bilingual Singer and E-commerce Expert

She/Her

Sharonne is a bilingual singer and E-commerce expert from Paris whose musical journey began in childhood, singing in church choirs. Her passion for multicultural experiences and travel brought her to Toronto in 2020, where she quickly embraced the city’s vibrant energy and diverse arts scene.

Sanjana Sharma (Saanjh)

South Asian Dream-Pop Artist

She/Her

Saanjh, a South Asian dream-pop artist from Toronto, crafts music that’s both harmonious and edgy. Her sound features bold lyrics, dynamic drumming, and melodious guitar riffs that hint at alt-rock influences. Pursuing a childhood dream, Saanjh delivers intimate performances that genuinely connect with audiences, making her a unique voice in music.

Jimmy Dick

Teacher on Indigenous Culture and Spirituality

He/Him

Jimmy is of the Moose Cree First Nation from the community of Moose Factory, Ontario – located in James Bay and within the Nishanawbe-Aski Nation. He’s fluent in Cree language and a teacher on Indigenous culture and spirituality. Jimmy has been actively involved since moving to Toronto in 1975. He is an active volunteer in the Toronto Native Community and served as a board member with various agencies.

June 2024

Rachael Owojori

Clinical Coordinator at the Saskatchewan Health Authority

She/Her

Rachael Owojori, a Clinical Coordinator at the Saskatchewan Health Authority, is not only a dedicated healthcare professional but also a talented gospel music artist.

Anna Marie Bekolay

Multidisciplinary Artist

She/Her

Anna Marie Bekolay, multidisciplinary artist, composer, collaborative musician, teacher, clinician, adjudicator, gardener, & dance enthusiast loves all things arts related.

Dr. Richard Vedan

Associate Professor Emeritus and Elder Scholar of the Secwepemc First Nation

He/Him

Dr. Richard Vedan, Secwepemc Nation, is Professor Emeritus University of British Columbia, past Director First Nations House of Learning; and Sr. Advisor Aboriginal Affairs to UBC’s President.

Cinnamon Sandhu

Musician

She/Her

Cinnamon Sandhu is an artist based in Vancouver, BC. With over 3 years of Indian music training and 2 years of western music training, her musical expertise is diverse.

Madison Dartana

Harpist

She/They

Madison, is a versatile harpist specializing in Celtic, classical, and electric harp music. Their passion lies in pushing the boundaries of harp performance and exploring innovative interdisciplinary approaches.

Dr. Gerard Roberts & Peta-Gay Roberts

Speakers and Wampum Carriers

Gerard and Peta-Gay are international speakers, ordained with Indigenous Messengers International, and as a family the Roberts are ‘Wampum Carriers’ of the Grand River Six Nations.

Tony Niu

Singer-Songwriter, and Multi-Instrumentalist

He/Him

Tony Niu is a Toronto-based musician, singer-songwriter, and multi-instrumentalist. He’s passionate about music and the performing arts

Gurpreet Chana

Musician

He/Him

Gurpreet Chana is a student of music, engineering, composing, & performing live. Informed by the language of the Tabla, his multi-instrumental musical practice seeks to engage melody and rhythm as a way of supporting interpersonal communion.

Sandra DeLaronde, MA LT, LLD (h.c.)

Transformational Human and Organizational Specialist

She/Her

Sandra holds her Master of Arts degree in Leadership and Training from Royal Roads University and was awarded a Doctors in Laws by the University of Winnipeg for her lifelong advocacy for Indigenous Women and Girls. Sandra is the principal of Northern Sage Consulting which focuses on human and organizational transformation.

Carine Bado

Musician

She/Her

Carine, a bilingual Christian artist and songwriter originally from Ivory Coast, now calls Winnipeg her home. Carine’s diverse musical influences, from Pop Rock to French/Afro Contemporary and Gospel, give her a distinctive tone.

Anne-Marie Williot

Musician

She/Her

Anne-Marie Williot is a trilingual multi-instrumentalist and singer-songwriter hailing from rural Quebec, and now based in Winnipeg. A honed poet and performer, she writes and sings in a deliciously melodic blend of old and new sounds, often evocative of candle-lit cafes.

May 2024

Lowa Beebe

Speaker, Facilitator, Consultant and Writer

She/Her

Lowa is a proud member of the Piikani Nation of the Blackfoot Confederacy & Treaty 7. She is recognized for her work in Public Relations, Advocacy, Governance, Media, Strategy and Communications.

I.Con Twins

Singer-Songwriter Duo

She/Her

I.Con Twins stands for “I am CONfident.” The award-winning Chinese-Canadian singer-songwriter duo, I.Con Twins, is composed of Calvina Poon and Carmina Poon. Their music is Neo-Chinese Conscious Pop, combining Chinese instrumentation with contemporary Pop vocals to create a fresh sound that bridges the Chinese and Western cultures.

Stephen Demaer

Classical Guitarist

He/Him

Stephen Demaer is a classical guitarist with an exciting and engaging performance style. He recently released his debut album ‘Reflections,’ which is available on all streaming platforms. He is currently in the Master’s degree for Performance at the University of Calgary.

George Desjarlais

Knowledge Keeper.

He/Him

George Desjarlais, from the Frog Lake Cree Nation works at Macewan University as knowledge keeper. Hunting for sustenance and gathering medicinal plants was the yearly practice. During this time many teachings and stories were shared with the children. A father of 7 and husband, the cultural practices are not being shared and passed down to the children and grandchildren.

Ben Spencer

Poet, Songwriter, Performer and Producer

He/Him

Poet, songwriter, performer and producer Ben Spencer has released four full-length albums of original songs, playing nation-wide to a growing fan-base. A folk-festival mainstay and multi-media maker, Ben is passionate about lyrical invention and storytelling through song, delivered over a blazing guitar finger-style. After spending ten years in Montreal, he has recently relocated back to Edmonton.

Subash Giri

Musician, Scholar, and Teacher

He/Him

Giri is a Ph.D. candidate in ethnomusicology at the Department of Music, University of Alberta, Canada. He holds Master’s Degree in Hindustani Classical Voice (M MUS). Subash’s specialty and expertise are in South Asian music and culture, particularly that of India and Nepal.

Ashley Clark

Artist, Innovator, Cultural Custodian

She/Her

With a passion for creativity and a deep connection to Indigenous heritage, Ashley breathes life into her art, blending tradition with modern expression to captivate hearts and minds.

Jessie Simmons

Afro-Caribbean Singer-Songwriter

She/Her

Jessie Simmons, Ottawa-based Afro-Caribbean singer-songwriter, embodies cultural pride and musical excellence. With a voice that resonates unity and diversity, she uplifts hearts and spirits through her soulful performances.

Yolande Laroche (Orchidae)

Singer

Orchidae is the experimental-pop project of Yolande Laroche, a queer franco Taïwanese-Canadian artist based in Gatineau, Quebec. Soft, hypnotic melodies intertwine with minimal yet meaningful arrangements and at-times psychedelic orchestration. The music reflects her hyphenated identity and themes of alienation.

Elder Geri Musqua-LeBlanc

Elder

She/Her

Geri is a Saulteaux/Kanawake woman and has received the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee medal for her work in employment equity and social justice.

ScotianAires Chorus

A Cappella Chorus

Grandmother Kim Wheatley

Ojibwe Anishinaabe Grandmother from Shawanaga First Nation Reserve

She/Her

Grandmother Kim Wheatley carries the spirit name Head or Leader of the Fireflower.

Sharonne Ngbilo

Bilingual Singer and E-commerce Expert

She/Her

Lena Recollet

Poet and Singer-Songwriter

She/Her

Poet and singer-songwriter Lena Recollet, acclaimed for her potent lyrics and captivating spoken word, boasts accolades such as a Native American Music Award. Transitioning from acting after graduating from The Centre for Indigenous Theatre in 2005, she’s become a versatile artist, delving into poetry, music, and filmmaking.

Barbara Dumont-Hill

Spirit Keeper

She/Her

Grandmother Barbara is Algonquin Anishinabeg from the Kitigan Zibi community in Quebec. She is a drum keeper, a community volunteer, and a spiritual advisor. She travelled across Canada as an advisor with the Canadian Department of Justice to witness the Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls National Inquiry. Barbara’s work has inspired her path to honour and empower Indigenous women and youth.

Ainsley McNeaney

Singer-Songwriter

She/Her

Ainsley McNeaney is a Montréal-based singer-songwriter, multi-instrumentalist, music educator and composer with an honour’s degree in Percussion Performance from the University of Toronto.

April 2024

Israel Fashola

Singer and Music Director

He/Him

Israel Fashola is an immigrant who currently resides in Canada. He is recognized for his talents as a singer, vocal director, and music director, having collaborated with various accomplished individuals and groups.

Jadon Alexander-Huet

Student

He/Him

Jadon, a proud Canadian embracing his Caribbean and European heritage, overcame autism and a learning disability through positive attitude and therapy. Now an honor roll student, he prepares for a carpentry pre-apprenticeship. He’s an equity council member, Vibe group leader, skateboarder, church volunteer, and musician.

Graham Arnold Alexis

Elder

He/Him

Arnold White Buffalo Man, a respected Elder of Alexis Nakota Sioux Nation, showcases profound wisdom inherited from his ancestors. Fluent in Shnakda Nakota and English, he shares teachings as a pipe carrier and sweat lodge holder since the 1980s. Through drum-making workshops, he imparts knowledge, fostering unity and healing within the community.

Jeff Bryant

Songwriter

He/Him

Jeff Bryant is a songwriter based in Vancouver. Driven by a desire to share his music with heartfelt sincerity, Jeff is on a mission to forge genuine connections with others.

Shumaila Hemani

Singer-Songwriter

She/Her

Shumaila Hemani, Ph.D. is an Alberta-based Sufi singer-songwriter, acousmatic composer, and community-engaged artist sculpting with the sounds of the environment and addressing climate crisis with Sufi poetry from South Asia.

Rozalind MacPhail

Multi-Instrumentalist Singer-Songwriters

She/Her

Based in St. John’s, NL, Rozalind MacPhail has expanded from looping flutist to one of Canada’s most unique and captivating multi-instrumentalist singer-songwriters. MacPhail seeks opportunities to inspire and empower through live music, film and storytelling.

Nina Segalowitz

Inuit Throatsinger

She/Her

Nina Segalowitz (Inuvialuit and Dìne) has given regal performances of throatsinging for more than 25 years. Throat singing has been practised by the Inuit for thousands of years, and their interpretations are Inuit women’s prized moments of leisure and entertainment. Nina has performed in many countries with many groups and singers like with Ariane Moffat or The Symphony Orchestra of Montreal.

Anjali Caillat

RSE Program Advisor

She/Her

Anjali arrived in Montreal in late 2006 when she was 23. In 2007, she began taking classical voice lessons at Aria Atelier de Chant.

David Meuse

Cultural Ambassador

He/Him

David resides in Membertou First Nation, Unamak’i, and won the Vital Award in 2021. Currently, he serves as a Cultural Ambassador appointed by Chief Terry Paul and CEO of Membertou Development Corporation. Stationed at Membertou Trade and Convention Centre for 10 years, he actively promotes kindness and inclusivity.

Becca Bartlett

Singer & Songwriter

She/Her

Becca Bartlett is a 19 year old Newfoundland singer/songwriter and performer. She enjoys playing original songs and covers. In 2021, Becca was awarded the Focus on Youth Performing Individual award by the City of Mount Pearl, in recognition of her involvement in the local entertainment industry.. Her original song “Calypso” was produced and performed by local musician Pete, and her first single “Dreams were made for sleeping” will be available on all major streaming platforms.

Kyla Tilley

Singer-Songwriter

She/Her

Kyla Tilley, the Canadian singer-songwriter, captivates audiences with her intimate live performances, acrobatic guitar playing, and impressive shoe collection

Diana Day

Indigenous Knowledge keeper

She/Her

Diana is an Indigenous Knowledge keeper from Oneida of the Thames, champions social justice for the vulnerable. She has an honor degree in Psychology and is the founder of Indigenous Women Rise Society and Drum Group. Her experience includes assignments at the local, regional, provincial, and national levels ranging from program development to management.

Diana EagleSpeaker

Crisis Counselor at AwoTaan Healing Lodge

She/Her

Diane, a resilient Blackfoot woman from the Blood tribe and the Southern Blackfeet of Montana. She is a survivor of the Canadian Residential School system and the Mormon Indian Child placement program. With a diploma in office administration and a degree in Social Work from Mount Royal College, she passionately serves as a Front Line worker at Awotaan Healing Lodge. For over a decade, Diane has dedicated herself to assisting Indigenous women and children, blending her education with her deep compassion.

Arwant Kang

Lawyer and Musician

He/Him

Arwant is a lawyer at an immigration and family law lawyer at a prominent boutique law firm in Downtown, Vancouver.

Sarah Nearing

Actor, Singer, & Playwright

She/Her

Sarah Nearing is an actor, singer, and emerging playwright born and raised in Calgary, Alberta. She is a passionate feminist artist who strives to inspire compassion and joy through her work across mediums, including opera, theatre, and film and television.

Emilie Delorme Newsom

Harpist

She/Her

Emilie Delorme-Newsom is an Alberta based harpist who formally studied music at the University of British Columbia School of Music. Emilie performs regularly at various events in the Calgary area and enjoys collaborating with other local artists across various music styles.

Grandmother Kim Wheatley

Ojibwe Anishinaabe Grandmother from Shawanaga First Nation Reserve

She/Her

Grandmother Kim Wheatley carries the spirit name Head or Leader of the Fireflower.

March 2024

Randy Morin

Storyteller, Author & Language Keeper

He/Him

Anna Marie Bekolay

Multidisciplinary Artist

She/Her

Anna Marie Bekolay, multidisciplinary artist, composer, collaborative musician, teacher, clinician, adjudicator, gardener, & dance enthusiast loves all things arts related.

Arlene Twin

Cree Knowledge Keeper

She/Her

Ellie Heath

Singer Songwriter, Copywriter, Playwright and Producer

She/Her

Ben Spencer

Poet, Songwriter, Performer and Producer

He/Him

February 2024

Reg Crowshoe

Blackfoot Elder

He/Him

Reg Crowshoe is a newly appointed member of the University of Calgary Senate, and a prominent cultural and spiritual leader from Piikuni First Nation in Southern Alberta, where he formerly served as chief. Dr. Crowshoe is widely recognized for his dedication to Piikuni artifacts, traditions, language, culture, and history.

Dallas Hayes-Sparks

Opera Singer

She/Her

KTheChosen

Performer, Singer and Activist

He/Him

Born in Zimbabwe and currently based in Calgary, Hip-hop artist and TEDx speaker, KTheChosen writes lyrics that are both entertaining and enlightening.

Sedalia Fazio

Elder, Mohawk

She/Her

Sedalia Fazio, native Kahnawake, is a very active elder within the Kanien’kehá:ka (Mohawk) community. She is frequently invited as elder and speaker in public events, conferences, and seminars. She represents and defends Autochthons’ rights in Canada.

Lila Ntumba

Musician

She/Her

Lila Ntumba was born and raised in Kinshasa, DR of Congo, and has been a Toronto resident for the past 6 years. Lila currently works in the field of Change Management, and on her spare time enjoys trying different foods and listening to music.

Monica Mckernan (Jazz For Lovers)

Singer & Bassist

She/Her

Meet the husband and wife musical duo, Jazz For Lovers. The group is composed of singer and upright bassist, Monica McKernan, and guitarist Julien Sandiford. Based in Montréal, QC, the duo has been playing together for over a decade.

Stella Johnson

Métis Elder-in-Residence

She/Her

Stella Johnson, nee Erasmus was born in McLennan, Alberta and raised by her grandmother from the age of 5 and was taught the Cree language. Stella now works at Vancouver Island University as a Métis Elder-in-Residence.

Marc Rivest

Folk, Jazz and Pop Singer

He/Him

ReeVay is the moniker of award-winning solo artist Marc Rivest. The Coquitlam-based artist gracefully weaves the finest elements of folk, jazz and pop.

Jeff Bryant

Songwriter

He/Him

Jeff Bryant is a songwriter based in Vancouver. Driven by a desire to share his music with heartfelt sincerity, Jeff is on a mission to forge genuine connections with others.

January 2024

Chinenye

Singer, songwriter and multi-talented performer

She/Her

Chinenye is among Winnipeg’s fastest-rising artists. A contemporary singer, songwriter and multi-talented performer, Chinenye aims to create culturally transcendent music. Her debut EP, “Love’s Embrace”, is about experiencing God’s love and is dedicated to raising mental health awareness.

Murray Jowett

Violinist & Fiddler

He/Him

Murray Jowett is a violinist and fiddler from Winnipeg, Manitoba, located in Treaty 1 territory. He is known for his wide range of styles drawn from the diverse regions and people of Canada.

Michele-Elise Burnett

President/Artistic Director/Assistant Director

She/Her

Michele-Elise Burnett is a Métis with Algonquin roots. She is a third-generation radio business owner, her mother and her were the first Indigenous people to be granted two private broadcasting licenses in Canada. She is President of Kakekalanicks and Landscape of Nations 360° companies dedicated to transformative understanding and engagement with Indigenous Peoples.

Alesandra Felicia

Classical-crossover Singer

She/Her

Alesandra Felicia is a classical-crossover singer who performs across a spectrum of arias, popular songs, folklore tunes, musical theatre and more. Alesandra captivates the audience with her stirring and powerful vocals, angelic timbre, and emotional interpretation of the lyrics.

Constance Jane Levitt

Pop Violinist

She/Her

Elder Geri Musqua-LeBlanc

Elder

She/Her

Geri is a Saulteaux/Kanawake woman and has received the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee medal for her work in employment equity and social justice.

Adria Jackson

Musician

She/Her

More Special Guests from Previous Ceremonies

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