Leadership Fellows head to Tkaronto
Over five days, the Melbourne Poche Indigenous Health Leadership Fellows journeyed to Tkaronto (Toronto) to undertake Module II of the program.
A welcome ceremony by Clayton Shirt, Elder in Residence, Waakebiness-Bryce Institute for Indigenous Health, UoT grounded everyone into a week of deep reflection, paving the way for meaningful conversation.
Fellows in the Askaakamigokwewigamig teaching lodge
Graciously hosted by UoT team, including Dr Janet Smylie and Dr Suzanne Stewart, Director, Waakebiness‐Bryce Institute for Indigenous Health, we ran sessions in the Askaakamigokwewigamig (Ah-skaw-kom-ih-goh-kweh-whi-gah-mig), Mother Earth Teaching Lodge and attended an Ojibwe ceremony with Grandmother Jacque and Hopi Martin.
Fellows with Dr Janet Smylie and Poche team at the Waakebiness-Bryce Institute, UofT
A key takeaway from the discussions was understanding the power and necessity of setting boundaries, and recognising that saying no is not about rejecting opportunities but about making space for what truly matters. Fellows emphasised reassessing and redefining personal and professional roles to make sure efforts are directed toward the most impactful and fulfilling activities. This reflection has underscored the importance of strategically investing energy and focusing on areas where they make the most significant difference.
Balancing the service to our communities while effectively navigating mainstream institutions has been a recurring theme. The challenge lies in staying true to community values while engaging with and influencing broader societal systems, as was seen when we visited the 2-Spirited People of the 1st Nations health organisation.
The well-being of the next generation has been a recurring topic. Fellows considered new ways to protect and nurture young people, ensuring they grow up in supportive and enriching environments.
Collectively, we journeyed toward understanding our place within the broader societal context, acknowledging our unique contributions and the value we bring. Practical strategies for bringing about positive change at the community level and turning ideas into actionable innovations was a focal point of discussions. As was the need for reflection and rest, which is essential for sustained effectiveness. Taking time to pause and recharge and delivering messages with kindness and consideration are important aspects of leadership.
The weight of leadership responsibilities was acknowledged, with Fellows reflecting on the complexities and demands of guiding others while maintaining their own well-being. Recognising that culture is not static, but ever-evolving has been enlightening, allowing for a more flexible and adaptive approach to cultural preservation and growth.
Finally, there is an empowering realisation that we have permission to look forward and envision a brighter future. Embracing change and innovation while honouring our roots is seen as a pathway to progress.
Fellows with Sara Wolfe and Associate Professor Shawana Andrews at the Rotman School of Management, UofT
Fellows with the Poche team at Niagara Falls