May 2023
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.
READ MOREJason EagleSpeaker
Bestselling Author, Illustrator & Book Publisher Founder of Eaglespeaker Publishing
He/Him
Author, Illustrator and Founder of Eaglespeaker Publishing, he based in Nova Scotia, Canada. Jason travels extensively, creating endless non-fiction works with Indigenous authors from throughout Turtle Island. His hard-hitting true stories focus on revealing the modern experiences of Indigenous people (the strengths and the struggles).
READ MOREProper Thing!
Halifax Celtic Folk Group
Proper Thing! is a Halifax Celtic Folk group who’ve all met through work, friends, school and most notably, through music.
READ MORESamar El Faki
Singer
She/Her
Samar is a Sudanese-Canadian multi-disciplinary singer from Ottawa. Samar has been performing for as long as she can remember. Samar is currently working on original music.
READ MORESandra 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.
READ MOREThe 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.
READ MOREEAK Trio
Musical Trio
The Sadler Sisters with Kasey Kurtz are more than a musical trio! Their musical tastes and influences may differ yet their shared experiences bring forward an ease and chemistry on stage that doesn’t go unnoticed.
READ MORESukruti Tirupattur
Bharatanatyam Performer, Teacher and Yoga Instructor
She/Her
Sukruti Tirupattur is a Bharatanatyam performer, teacher and a Yoga instructor from Bengaluru, India. She moved to Toronto in 2019 to further her career. She is a Bharatanatyam instructor at Citadel + Compagnie and an Associate Artist at Nova Dance.
READ MOREPhilip Cote
Young Spiritual Elder, Indigenous Artist, Activist, Educator, Historian and Ancestral Knowledge Keeper
He/Him
Philip Cote, MFA of Moose Deer Point First Nation is a graduate of OCAD University’s Interdisciplinary Art Media and Design Masters program. Cote has been exploring ancient ways of communicating Ancestral Knowledge through Mural Painting and Oral Traditions of Storytelling and their Spiritual Cosmology.
READ MORELila 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.
READ MOREBrian Baggett
Chapman Stick Soloist
He/Him
The only Chapman Stick performer in Saskatchewan, Brian Baggett showcases masterful original compositions and colorfully arranged standards from various genres. Brian is a 27-year veteran of the 10-stringed, 2-handed tapping instrument.
READ MOREPaulina Salisbury
Singer-Songwriter
She/Her
Paulina Salisbury is a young woman full of energy, with contagious positivity. She has been immersed in music since her early childhood. She is the winner of the 2022 Nouvelle Scène singing-songwriting competition, where she also received the People’s Choice Award.
READ MOREGrandmother Brenda Dubois
Grandmother (kokum) from Muscowpetung First Nation
She/Her
Brenda Dubois has worked extensively in the areas of child welfare, human justice and environmental issues. She believes that practicing culture and traditions is important for people to continually learn and evolve.
READ MOREAdetola “aloT of Poetry” Adedipe
Poet and Spoken Word Artist
She/Her
Adetola “aloT of Poetry” Adedipe is a Nigerian-South African poet and spoken word artist. While completing her degree in Kinesiology at The University of Calgary, she explored her love for performance and connecting with the arts community.
READ MORECrislyne
Vocalist
She/Her
Crislyne is a born and raised Calgarian whose parents immigrated to Canada from the Philippines and Vietnam. The Canadian vocalist is the current 2022 Best Vocalist Winner of the Intercontinental Music Awards.
READ MOREDorothy Thunder
Cree Instructor
She/Her
Dorothy Thunder is a Plains Cree (nêhiyawiskwêw) from Little Pine First Nation, Saskatchewan and full-time Cree instructor in Faculty of Native Studies at the University of Alberta. She completed her BA in Native Studies in June 2002 and MSc in Linguistics in December 2015
READ MOREEllie 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.
READ MOREJesse Crowley
Musician
He/Him
Jesse Crowley has been writing, performing, and collaborating on musical projects since he was a child, playing on stages across Canada and overseas. For the past several years, Jesse has been performing with the Grindstone Theatre.
READ MOREFrançois Tremblay
Director General, Human Resources, Strategic Planning and Institutional Services
He/Him
François Tremblay joined the National Film Board of Canada as Director General, Human Resources, in 2011 and was promoted to Director General, Human Resources, Strategic Planning and Institutional Services, in 2015.
READ MOREAinsley 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.
READ MOREAndrea An
Singer-Songwriter
She/Her
Andrea An is a multi-talented pop, R&B, and country artist. The Vietnamese-Canadian singer/songwriter has performed at notable festivals including The Saskatchewan Jazz Festival, Country Thunder, and Trifecta Music Festival.
READ MOREApril 2023
Evelyn “It’s Ev” Nkuba
Singer-Songwriter & Poet
She/Her
Evelyn who goes by “It’s Ev” is a Canadian singer/songwriter and poet. Evelyn was born in Arlington, Virginia and has lived in 5 countries, primarily being raised in Ottawa, Canada. There she discovered and continued to explore her love for music and writing.
READ MOREGurpreet 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.
READ MORESupinderjit Singh Rattan
Founder of U Foundation
He/Him
Supinderjit Singh Rattan is an active community leader and a community builder. Since immigrating to Canada in 1998, Supinderjit Singh Rattan has genuinely embraced the Canadian values of humanity, dignity, respect, and inclusivity. Mr. Rattan devotes much of his time to helping the most vulnerable in our community.
READ MOREDr. 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.
READ MOREMurray 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.
READ MOREIngrid 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.
READ MOREDr. 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.
READ MOREJeff 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.
READ MORESpring Ahead
Acoustic Duo
Adetola “aloT of Poetry” Adedipe
Poet and Spoken Word Artist
She/Her
Adetola “aloT of Poetry” Adedipe is a Nigerian-South African poet and spoken word artist. While completing her degree in Kinesiology at The University of Calgary, she explored her love for performance and connecting with the arts community.
READ MOREMalaika Hailey
Soul & R&B Singer-Songwriter
She/Her
Malaika Hailey is a Kenyan-born soul and R&B singer-songwriter who now calls Calgary her home. Malaika’s music is inspired by her surroundings and loved ones, and she believes in leading with love and pursuing elevation in all things.
READ MOREJamie Thomas
He/Him
Jamie Thomas was born and raised in the village of Snuneymuxw. Raised in the teachings of family with a foundation in respect, self-sufficiency and helping one another with shared responsibilities and accountability to all. Moving forward, Jamie plans on using the tools of the society and continuing in a good way.
READ MOREAinsley 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.
READ MOREGabriel Campagne
Folk Musician
He/Him
Born into a family of musicians, you could say Gabriel Campagne comes by his talents honestly. Raised on the folk touring circuit, he refined his vocal skills studying classical voice at McGill University, but his compulsive writing habit in both French and English brought him back to the music of his people.
READ MORESedalia 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.
READ MOREDr. Imelda Perley, Opolahsomuwehs
Elder | Wolastoqew (Maliseet) from Tobique First Nation, St. Mary’s First Nation and Houlton Band of Maliseets
She/Her
Dr. Perley is Wolastoqew, Muskrat and Fox Clan. She is active in reviving her traditional language through tweets, teaching courses and language Apps.
READ MOREColleen 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.
READ MORESunflower Duo
Musical Duo
Sunflower Duo is an international duo, formed in the fall of 2022; Maria and Alla have already performed multiple times in St. John’s over the past several months.
READ MOREMarch 2023
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.
READ MOREJoyce German
Jazz Saxophonist & Vocalist
She/Her
Joyce German is a South Sudanese Canadian Jazz Saxophonist & Vocalist. She plays with numerous bands in the city and is one of the many great young & uprising jazz musicians in Winnipeg’s Jazz Scene.
READ MOREPriscilla Kerr
Physician & Spokesperson
She/Her
Priscilla Kerr Hatae is a Brazilian Physician who came to Canada as a Manitoba Skilled Worker Immigrant with her husband. Since 2009, she has been volunteering to represent and defend the rights and duties of thousands of members all over Canada and MB. Her dream is to get Acupuncture recognized as a Health Care Profession like other Canadian provinces and to open her own Wellness Center.
READ MOREMiranda 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.
READ MOREMargaret Thom
Commissioner of the Northwest Territories
She/Her
Mrs. Margaret Thom was appointed as the 17th Commissioner of the Northwest Territories on June 26, 2017. She is very active in the North as an educator, counselor, facilitator and volunteer with many years of service to the people of the Northwest Territories.
READ MORERandy 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.
READ MOREKris Klyne
Singer, Guitar Player and Songwriter
He/Him
Kris Klyne is a singer, guitar player and songwriter from Saskatoon, Canada. Also known as the front man for hard rock band Firing At The Sky and former award-winning metal band Morally Sound, Kris’s solo music takes a departure from his edgy sound to a lighter pop/rock/country approach.
READ MOREKelly Van Damme
Head of Learning & Engagement
She/Her
Kelly Van Damme is the Head of Learning & Engagement at Remai Modern. She has worked at the museum since 2004, and previously she taught art and education courses at the University of Saskatchewan.
READ MOREYXE Quartet
Musicians
They/Them
Jacqueline Nutting (violinist) and Scott McKnight (cello) are founding members of the YXE Quartet, which had its inception in 2019. The YXE Quartet performs for events around the city and offers a wide array of musical genres.
READ MOREErvad Xerxes Madan
President of Ontario Zoroastrian Community Foundation
He/Him
A Chemical Engineer and MBA from Mumbai, India, Xerxes is the Commercial Manager for Cargill Bioindustrial managing the business in Canada. As a volunteer, Xerxes has served as the President of Ontario Zoroastrian Community Foundation (OZCF).
READ MOREElder 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.
READ MOREAdrian House
Singer-Songwriter
He/Him
Adrian House is a bilingual singer-songwriter from St. John’s, NL. Winner of the 2022 Government of NL Arts & Letters Award, Adrian was a finalist at the 2022 Gala de la chanson de Caraquet, N.B.
READ MOREAlla Melnychuk
Concert Pianist
She/Her
Alla Melnychuk, concert pianist from Ukraine. She graduated from Kharkiv National University of Arts. An experienced concert pianist, she has been teaching piano for more than a decade in many European countries such as Luxembourg, Germany, Poland, Spain, and Italy and continues to teach them online. She has been honoured with various awards for outstanding creative and intellectual achievement in many international competitions.
READ MORESamir Manji
President, Ismaili Council for British Columbia
He/Him
Samir has a Bachelor of Arts and Masters Degree (Accounting) from the University of Waterloo. He is the CEO of a private equity firm in Vancouver and a public real estate investment trust. He has previously served as Chairman of the Economic Planning Board for Canada and on the Board of FOCUS Canada.
READ MOREArwant 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.
READ MOREJamie Thomas
He/Him
Jamie Thomas was born and raised in the village of Snuneymuxw. Raised in the teachings of family with a foundation in respect, self-sufficiency and helping one another with shared responsibilities and accountability to all. Moving forward, Jamie plans on using the tools of the society and continuing in a good way.
READ MOREAndrea Superstein
Jazz Musician
She/Her
Andrea Superstein is one of the most versatile voices in music today, dubbed as “redefining jazz” her debut performance at the Vancouver International Jazz Festival earned her a Galaxie Rising Star nomination and launched her squarely into the limelight.
READ MORETerry 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 15 years, he’s resided on the Kanienkehaka Territory of Tiotake (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.
READ MOREJulie Jodoin
Director of Montréal Space for Life
She/Her
Julie Jodoin has been appointed as the Director of Montréal Space for life in 2022, after a successful interim period of two years during which time she oversaw the integration of the Biosphere as the 5th institution of Montréal Space for life and the grand opening of the Insectarium.
READ MORESheenah Ko
Synth-Pop Artist
She/Her
The Montreal-based synth-pop artist, who is also a core member of Canadian indie darlings Besnard Lakes, hit the spotlight in 2020 with the release of her debut full-length album, Nowhere in Time. The album garnered substantial press, national radio airplay on CBC Radio, and a Top 10 spot on the NCRA Canadian Campus Radio Electronic charts.
READ MOREThe Melisizwe Brothers
Musicians
He/Him/They
The Melisizwe Brothers – Marc, Seth and Zacary – from Leduc, Alberta Canada are three multi-talented brothers who have received international recognition for their incredible musical talent. The Melisizwe Brothers have established themselves as “America’s Most Musical Family” scoring a recording contract with the world’s top leading music company “Republic Records”.
READ MOREDorothy Thunder
Cree Instructor
She/Her
Dorothy Thunder is a Plains Cree (nêhiyawiskwêw) from Little Pine First Nation, Saskatchewan and full-time Cree instructor in Faculty of Native Studies at the University of Alberta. She completed her BA in Native Studies in June 2002 and MSc in Linguistics in December 2015
READ MOREFebruary 2023
Chucks Okafor
Real Estate Advisor
He/Him
Chucks is a global real estate advisor at Sotheby’s International Realty. A former professional athlete in the Canadian Football league, Chucks has combined his dedication, attention to detail, and commitment to excellence to cater to the real estate needs of discerning individuals and their families globally and in Calgary’s most prestigious neighborhoods. Outside of real estate, Chucks is a board member and co-founder of The Calgary Black Chambers and volunteers as a football coach at Centennial High School.
READ MORELowa 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.
READ MOREDallas 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.
READ MOREBrian Desjardins
Executive Director of the Hangar Flight Museum
He/Him
Brian has used his passion to lead and grow organizations. Throughout his career, Brian Desjardins has accumulated a wealth of experience and proven record of success in tourism, recreation, government, and nonprofit sectors to lead and grown organizations.
READ MOREScott Tannas
Senator
He/Him
Senator Tannas is the only current Senator (and 5th in Parliament’s history) whose appointment to the Upper Chamber came as the result of a public election process. He is a founding member and Leader of the Canadian Senators Group. He is making Senate Reform one of his key priorities as a Senator and was a founding member of the Special Senate Committee on Senate Modernization, which delivered a series of reports advocating sweeping changes to the operations of the Senate.
READ MOREPriscille Buckahsa
Spoken Word Artist
She/Her
Priscille is a writer, poet, spoken word artist and a teaching artist based in Calgary; she has been writing and performing for over 12 years. She has had the opportunity to be the supporting act and headliner at various popular events in both Calgary and Edmonton. Her versatility and talent have enabled her to perform at a variety of venues such as the 6 Degrees conference, churches, universities, schools, and marketing campaigns such as ATB Listen.
READ MOREAdetola “aloT of Poetry” Adedipe
Poet and Spoken Word Artist
She/Her
Adetola “aloT of Poetry” Adedipe is a Nigerian-South African poet and spoken word artist. While completing her degree in Kinesiology at The University of Calgary, she explored her love for performance and connecting with the arts community.
READ MOREEllie 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.
READ MOREDr. Miriam Sekandi
Author, Speaker, Parenting Life Coach, Intercultural Educator and Consultant
She/Her
Dr. Miriam Sekandi is an ardent educator who uses both her voice and writing, to lovingly impart wisdom into everyone who experiences her presence. Since moving to Canada 18 years ago to pursue graduate studies, Dr. Miriam made it her life’s work to combat ancestral and generational trauma that gets passed down through families, in the form of unhealthy parenting practices and intercultural disparities.
READ MORERandy 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.
READ MOREConnor Derraugh
Jazz Musician
He/Him
Connor holds a Jazz Performance Degree from the University of Manitoba with a double major in piano and saxophone. He has performed at numerous events including the Winnipeg Jazz Festival, the Downtown Concert Series, the Asper Jazz Series, the Assiniboine Park’s Jazz in the Garden and Summer Concert Series and plays with the Winnipeg Jazz Orchestra.
READ MOREThe 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.
READ MORESandra 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.
READ MORELila 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.
READ MOREKristen Prince
Saxophone Player and Singer
She/Her
Kristen is a Port Credit based saxophone player and singer. She has performed with many artists including the Arkells, Canadian legend Andy Kim, Lowest of the Low, My Son the Hurricane, and 4-time Juno nominee Tom Barlow.
READ MOREBrenda Wastasecoot
Indigenous Assistant Professor
She/Her
Brenda Wastasecoot is Cree from York Factory First Nation and was born in Churchill, Manitoba. Her teaching career began at Brandon University in the First Nations & Aboriginal Counselling Degree from 2000 – 2008. She came to study at OISE Ontario Institute for Studies in Education and completed her Ph.D. in 2016.
READ MOREKaren Mazurkewich
Vice-President of Stakeholder Relations and Communications
She/Her
Karen Mazurkewich joined the GTAA in June 2022 and is the Vice-President of Stakeholder Relations and Communications. She leads a diverse team covering Media, Corporate Communications, Public Affairs and Stakeholder Relations, Corporate Marketing and Design and Sustainability and Social Impact
READ MOREJanuary 2023
Jason EagleSpeaker
Bestselling Author, Illustrator & Book Publisher Founder of Eaglespeaker Publishing
He/Him
Author, Illustrator and Founder of Eaglespeaker Publishing, he based in Nova Scotia, Canada. Jason travels extensively, creating endless non-fiction works with Indigenous authors from throughout Turtle Island. His hard-hitting true stories focus on revealing the modern experiences of Indigenous people (the strengths and the struggles).
READ MOREEmmanuel Solomon
Tenor
He/Him
Emmanuel Solomon (tenor) is a burgeoning artist honing his artistry in several genres ranging from Classical, Christian, to Afro-western fusion and Popular music. Since living in Halifax, he has had the privilege of featuring in several performances across the city, including recitals at the Government House, as guest soloist with the Symphony Nova Scotia, the Cecilia Concerts among others.
READ MOREScotianAires 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.
READ MOREDaniel Gallivan
Member of the Board of Directors at VIA Rail
He/Him
Mr. Gallivan is a Senior Partner in the Atlantic Canada law firm of Cox & Palmer. He has been the Chief Executive Officer of Cox & Palmer since 2003 and was Managing Partner of the Halifax office from 2003 to 2012. Mr. Gallivan is a member of the Bar Societies for Nova Scotia and Prince Edward Island and was appointed Queen’s Counsel in 1997.
READ MORESamuel Crowfoot
Lawyer
He/Him
Samuel Crowfoot is a graduate of Utah Valley State College (A.S.), Brigham Young University (B.A.) and the University of Wisconsin Law School (J.D.). Originally from Siksika, Alberta. Currently, he is serving his second term as a councillor for the Siksika Nation located in Alberta, Canada, where he works in the areas of health, business, social services, public safety, and land claims.
READ MOREBen 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.
READ MOREDana Wylie
Folk Musician
She/Her
Dana Wylie is a singer-songwriter whose work is rootsy and spacious, thought-provoking and soulful, with a crystal-clear voice that slides effortlessly between strength and vulnerability.
READ MOREDr. Bululu Kabatakaka
PhD, Professor
He/Him
Dr. Bululu Kabatakaka has more than thirty years of experience in post-secondary education in Canada and in various French-speaking countries in Africa. He is passionate about inspiring people from all walks of life to pursue education for continuous improvement.
READ MOREZane Allison
Member of Garden River First Nation
He/Him
Zane is a member of Garden River First Nation and a direct descendant of Chief Shingwaukonse. As a recent graduate from Algoma University, he will be furthering his education in Indigenous Land Management. In the summer of 2022, he was working at Lake Superior Provincial Park as a discovery ranger learning about and teaching visitors the history of the park and sharing the stories behind the Agawa pictographs.
READ MOREAleksi Campagne
Indie-Folk Musician
He/Him
Aleksi Campagne is uniquely qualified to offer a contemporary, indie-folk take on the time-honoured fiddle-singing tradition.
READ MOREGabriel Campagne
Folk Musician
He/Him
Born into a family of musicians, you could say Gabriel Campagne comes by his talents honestly. Raised on the folk touring circuit, he refined his vocal skills studying classical voice at McGill University, but his compulsive writing habit in both French and English brought him back to the music of his people.
READ MORESheenah Ko
Synth-Pop Artist
She/Her
The Montreal-based synth-pop artist, who is also a core member of Canadian indie darlings Besnard Lakes, hit the spotlight in 2020 with the release of her debut full-length album, Nowhere in Time. The album garnered substantial press, national radio airplay on CBC Radio, and a Top 10 spot on the NCRA Canadian Campus Radio Electronic charts.
READ MORELucas Zimbel
Musician
He/Him
Lucas Choi Zimbel is one of the hardest working musicians in Montreal’s English language folk scene. With monthly residencies in the city’s most respected cultural spaces and bars, he has been putting up an impressive number of shows since 2014. For his solo act, he mostly finger-picks his way through colourful chords on the acoustic guitar.
READ MOREDecember 2022
Ben Cottrill
Soulful Folk-Rock Artist
He/Him
Ben Cottrill is a spirited west-coast artist with a soulful Folk-Rock sound, shaped by a decade of performing on streets across Canada. Blending live vocal looping with the warm rhythms of piano & guitar.
READ MOREBen Dunhill
Singer, Pianist, Producer & Arranger
He/Him
Ben has played over 1500 professional shows as a singer/pianist as well as serving as a musical director for the Sassy Awards, and the University of Fraser Valley. In 2022 Ben Performed alongside Mathew V at the Legendary Massey Hall. Ben also works as a composer having written music for TV shows such as “Momondays” and “When paintings come alive”. He was named “One of the ten artists to look out for” by the Vancouver press in 2016.
READ MORENorth Saskatchewan Regiment Pipes and Drums
Traditional Bag Piper Performers
The North Saskatchewan Regiment Pipes and Drums are based in Saskatoon, SK under the command of Pipe Major Craig Shirley. Comprised mostly of volunteers, and a few enlisted members, the band is active in the community and participates in both military and civilian parades.
READ MOREBruce Sinclair
Metis Theatre Artist & Teacher
He/Him
Bruce Sinclair is a Metis theatre artist, teacher, student of the nehiyawewin (Cree) and Michif languages and is currently based in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan. Bruce formed an artistic entity, miyoteh performance that will develop and produce works based on working with Indigenous artists, youth, elders, the nehiyawewin\michif languages as well as artistic collaborations with diverse communities
READ MOREAlla Melnychuk
Concert Pianist
She/Her
Alla Melnychuk, concert pianist from Ukraine. She graduated from Kharkiv National University of Arts. An experienced concert pianist, she has been teaching piano for more than a decade in many European countries such as Luxembourg, Germany, Poland, Spain, and Italy and continues to teach them online. She has been honoured with various awards for outstanding creative and intellectual achievement in many international competitions.
READ MORECheryl Simon
Assistant Professor
Her/She
Cheryl Simon is an Assistant Professor who will teach Property and Special Issues in Aboriginal Law and Indigenous Governance at the law school. She is a proud Mi’kmaq woman from Epekwitk (PEI) with extensive experience in community-based policy development. She completed her BA in Native Studies from the University of Lethbridge and a law degree from the University of Victoria.
READ MOREBecca 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.
READ MOREWendy Philips
Elder from the Bald Eagle Clan
She/Her
Wendy is of the Bald Eagle Clan; She is Pot-ta-wat-to-me and Ojibwa and a proud member of Was-sauk-sing First Nation in the heart of the Muskokas. She is a keeper of the 8th Fire Prophecies, Keeper of the Ancient Thunderbird Calendar, Ceremonial Leader, Spiritual Educator, Cultural Innovator and Traditional Indigenous Healer. In 2018, Wendy was awarded the Community Medal for Scarborough/Guildwood from M.P John McKay and she was also a recipient for the Remarkable Woman Award.
READ MORETerry 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 15 years, he’s resided on the Kanienkehaka Territory of Tiotake (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.
READ MOREJustin Birco
Musician, Artist, Singer & Song Writer
He/Him
Justin Birco; a soulful artist with fundamentals based in Blues/Funk/Pop and Rock n’ Roll, is a singer/songwriter, multi-instrumentalist, producer and Holistic Health enthusiast with over 13+ years of experience. The Scarborough native is currently recording his EP, which will be titled “13”, and is releasing it in 2023. Follow @justinbirco on all social media for more details!
READ MOREKarla Briones
Business Strategist
She/Her
Karla Briones is a business strategist that coaches new immigrants, BIPOC and underrepresented business owners on becoming successful entrepreneurs with scalable ventures.
READ MORERhonda Downey
Settlement Trainer
She/Her
Rhonda Downey is a Settlement Trainer at YMCA, Newcomer Connections. Working as an English teacher for over 10 years and then as a Settlement Trainer for over 6 years, Rhonda has applied her passion to help others learn about culture differences and help newcomers to settle in New Brunswick. Newcomer Connections provides wraparound services to clients, taking a holistic approach to assistance with community connections, language, employment supports and settlement orientation.
READ MOREBritta Badour
Artist, Poet, Entertainer, and Educator
She/Her
Britta B. is a Toronto based award-winning artist, poet, entertainer, and educator. Her work has featured in notable spheres such as The Walrus Talks, TEDx, as well as international literature festivals like Women of the World Poetry Slam and LitFest Bergen. Her debut poetry collection, Wires that Sputter, will be released Spring 2023.
READ MORERandy 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.
READ MOREBrontae Hunter
Singer, Songwriter and Actress
She/Her
Brontae Hunter is a singer, songwriter and actress based in Tiohtià:ke (aka Montréal). She released her début studio album and audio play, The Jubilant Opus of the Day in 2021. She now splits her time between her local jazz scene in Montréal, and her alternative rock project, Gardenia Blue.
READ MORENovember 2022
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.
READ MOREIsadore
R&B Singer & Songwriter
She/Her
Isadore is a R&B singer/songwriter based in Toronto whose soulful melodies and soft voice chronicle her ever-evolving relationship with herself and others. Touching on topics such as mental health and feelings of uncertainty, Isadore aims to connect to those also finding themselves unsure of which path to take and how to find happiness in a world that seems foreign and overwhelming. Her singing style lends itself to years of musical infatuation with genres such as soul, R&B and its various sub-genres whose own pioneers also led with their hearts on their sleeves, unashamed of baring their souls, and giving a voice to those who couldn’t find the words to express themselves as freely
READ MORELowa 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.
READ MOREFrances Koncan
Playwright & Director
She/Her
Frances Koncan (she/they) is an Anishinaabe and Slovene writer originally from Couchiching First Nation in Treaty 3 territory. They are currently based in Treaty 1 territory, Winnipeg, Manitoba, where they work as a playwright and journalist. They are currently the Writer-in-Residence at the Winnipeg Public Library.
READ MORENikki Komaksiutiksak
Inuit Throat Singer & Teacher
She/Her
Nikki is an Inuit woman from Chesterfield Inlet, Nunavut. She currently works for the Department of Manitoba Justice. Nikki has found the strength to preserve her “Inukness” living in the southern part of Canada. Nikki uses her knowledge and understanding of the south to assist other Inuit moving to the big city.
READ MOREKevin Deer
Faithkeeper at the Mohawk Trail Longhouse
He/Him
Kanahsohon Kevin Deer from Kahnawake Mohawk Territory. For the last 30 years involved in Mohawk Language retention and revitalization. He is also a Faithkeeper at the Mohawk Trail Longhouse which involves knowing sacred songs, dances and rituals. He enjoys discussing and presenting the Iroquoian world views, history and philosophy. He was involved in the Kahnawake Police Commission from 2005 to 2015.
READ MOREDr. 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.
READ MOREKatie Tupper
Neo Soul-Singer
She/Her
Katie Tupper, a 24-year-old neo-soul musician, embodies that spirit of boundary-pushing, genre-defying artists at work within the often-overlooked region. Her latest EP Towards The End – a sultry, glittering debut that showcases Tupper’s mastery as a musician, writer and producer, and is an ode to love, identity and the inextricable ways the two entwine.
READ MOREDr. Sabrina Jafralie
PhD, Educator, Change maker, Activist
She/Her
Dr. Sabrina Jafralie has led an impressive career as a secondary school teacher and a university course lecturer in her 21 years. Her research includes teacher education, curriculum design, equity and religious literacy and purposeful dialogue.
READ MORETakeyce
Afro-Jamaican-Canadian Singer & Songwriter
She/Her
Afro-Jamaican-Canadian,Singer-Songwriter, daughter of Jamaica’s Pioneer of Gospel, Claudelle Clarke. She began to follow her mother’s footsteps at the age of five in full force. She has performed in Europe, North America, Latin America and the Caribbean. Shy to sing off stage but a tigress on. She is captivating, eclectic with a deep soulful voice
READ MOREGabrielle Cloutier
Singer, Animator and Vocal Teacher
She/Her
Singer, animator and vocal teacher, especially with young people from disadvantaged backgrounds, Gabrielle is immersed from an early age in the discovery of the human being in its fascinating diversity.
READ MOREThe 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.
READ MOREAmber Epp
Jazz Singer
She/Her
Amber Epp performs uplifting vocal jazz music with a rhythmic beat. She lives in Winnipeg, Manitoba, and loves to meet and interact with newcomers to Canada. Amber has performed across our country, and won a Western Canadian Music Award for one of her four albums. She also supports newcomers in Canada by teaching English to refugees. Please enjoy this original song by Canadian artist, Amber Epp.
READ MOREBanafsheh Taherian
Writer & Storyteller
She/Her
Banafsheh Taherian is a writer and bilingual (Farsi, English) actress who has recently been cast with a reoccurring role on the “#16 Hudson” series on TVO Kids.
READ MOREGrandmother 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.
READ MOREDelaney Rose
Songwriter
She/Her
Canadian songwriter, Delaney Rose, who is based in Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada, is an inspiring, positive and engaging troubadour whose music has been shaped by challenging life experiences, which have transformed her creative spirit into a songsmith who delivers memorable melodies of hope and healing energy.
READ MOREJeff 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.
READ MOREElder Darlene McIntosh
Elder of Lheidli T’enneh First Nation
She/Her
Darlene is an Elder of Lheidli T’enneh First Nation. Darlene is the Cultural Advisor in the Aboriginal Resource Centre of the College of New Caledonia (CNC) where she support students, advises faculty and does spiritual work for the wider community.
READ MOREApril May Bellia
Startup Coach, The Optimystic Entrepreneur
She/Her
April loves helping other entrepreneurs in their first years of startup – to support and guide them through the bumps and hurdles that come along.
READ MOREElder 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.
READ MOREScotianAires 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.
READ MOREAbigail
Country Music Artist
She/Her
Growing up in rural NL, Abigale’s sound and tone come from a different time and another place. Often referred to as an “old soul,” she carries a sincere and genuine country quality throughout her music that complements her grit and determination.
READ MOREDavid Daniels (Binesi nin)
Knowledge Holder
He/Him
Knowledge Holder David Daniels or also known as Binesi nin, is a member of the Long Plain First Nation. Daniels participates in educational medicine walks with his community and family.
READ MORE