Join us as we discuss the Art of PowWOW! from an up-close and personal perspective about what it is like behind the scenes of our gatherings.
A Zoom Link will be emailed to you with instructions on how to join.
Jan Greenfeather King, Moonz Clan, from Iskatewizaagegan 39, First Nation, is co-owner of Greenfeather King Indigenous Motivation. She is a facilitator/trainer and master of ceremonies. Jan is the first Anishinaabekwe master of ceremonies for Treaty #3 powwows.
Jamie Mandamin, Loon clan, has over 20 years of experience in Arena Directing, which began in his home community Shoal Lake #39. Over the years, other communities have asked him to direct their powwows, which he finds to be a great honour and a great responsibility. Today, he still sings and dances. Jamie is the cultural coordinator and resource manager at Wabaseemoong Child Welfare Authority.
Randy White, Lynx clan, has been a member of Whitefish Bay Singers since its formation over 50 years ago and has been given the gift of meeting many people from different nations through singing, which he is grateful for. As a powwow singer, he has had the opportunity to learn from others. He currently works with Ogimaabiitong -the Kenora chiefs Advisory as the Director of Treatment and Healing. Mr. White is a certified counsellor with the CCPA and a Member of the Ontario College of Psychotherapists.
Gary Smith, Bizhew clan, from Naicatchewenin, has been powwowing all his life. He is a traditional dancer and sang in various drum groups such as Spiritrock, FootPrint, and Whitefish Bay. Gary started MC’ing powwows at the age of 16 years old and has since travelled to powwows across Treaty #3 Territory. He has been arena directing and coordinating his hometown powwow for the past 20 years.
Danika Crow, Bear clan, from Mishkosiminiziibiing, Big Grassy River First Nation, has been helping organize powwows for over a decade. She is the Cultural Services Manager for Ogimaawabiitong Kenora Chiefs Advisory. Danika loves being able to coordinate cultural events, land-based activities, Anishinaabemowin, and provide ongoing training for staff and communities while working closely with elders and learning from those that have met along the way.