Indigenous Women's Leadership Series: The Trailblazers of Conservation

On Tuesday, March 8, 2022, in collaboration with the IISAAK OLAM Foundation and the Indigenous Leadership Initiative, we celebrated and honoured Indigenous women trailblazers of all ages in conservation leadership in a special session to commemorate International Women’s Day.

Moderated by Valérie Courtois (Indigenous Leadership Initiative), this intergenerational discussion explored the contributions of fearless Indigenous women who have forged a path before us, who are currently leading the way, and who are shaping the future of Indigenous conservation leadership.

Speakers included: The Honourable Ethel Blondin-Andrew, P.C. (Senior Leader, Indigenous Leadership Initiative), Bev Sellars (Former Councilor and Chief, Xat’sull First Nation; Senior Leader, Indigenous Leadership Initiative), Marilyn Baptiste (Conservation through Reconciliation Partnership Leadership Circle), Amberly Quakegesic (Guardian Program Manager, Wahkohtowin Development GP), and Stephanie Thorassie (Executive Director, Seal River Watershed Initiative).

This dialogue explored stories of breaking barriers, activating change, uplifting the principle of ‘love’ and asserting responsibilities to protect, restore, and reinvigorate the gifts of Earth Mother for current and future generations.

This webinar was brought to you by the IISAAK OLAM Foundation, the Indigenous Leadership Initiative, and the Conservation through Reconciliation Partnership as part of the Indigenous Women’s Leadership Series.

Watch the full recording below: