Aanii/Nanaboozhoo,
Nookaa Odeh Enaandwetood Odehwinan ndizhnikaas, Makwa dodem niinda’aw, N’Swakamok n’doonjibaa.
Tender Heart Healer of Hearts is what I am called, Bear is the clan I belong to, and where the three roads meet is my community.
You may have seen me around the Laurentian community with Cynthia Belfitt who is my keeper.
I am a Reconcilliation Ambearrister who is from the First Nations Child & Family Caring Society of Canada and a family member to Spirit Bear. The School of Indigenous Relations has agreed to be my host for the next two years. My purpose is to make a difference for First Nations children and families and to promote the Truth and Reconciliation Calls to Action. I must also work alongside the Elders to learn and help promote the Anishinaabemowin language, teachings, and stories.
On March 9, 2020, I was gifted the name Nookaa Odeh Enaandwetwood Odehwinan by Elder Hilda Nadjiwan-ba. I also got to wear my new outfit that was created by Joey-Lynn Wabie. It was a beautiful ceremony with many guests, followed by a feast.
Since my time at Laurentian, I have attended a few Anishinaabemowin classes, attended classes with the students, gone snowshoeing, attended ISA's Red Dress Campaign, visited Shawanaga First Nation, visited with students, created my own twitter page (@NookaaO), sat in on drumming sessions, visited with the Knowledge Keepers, attended meetings, as well as other activities and presentations.
I am truly grateful for the welcome and the love that I have felt since my arrival. I look forward to being a Reconciliation Ambearrister at Laurentian University.