Today, more than 25 representatives from the First Nations that Gakino’amaage serves are gathering in circle on Long Plain Madison Reserve, Treaty 1 Territory, for the Advisory Council Meeting—a space for connection, collaboration, and community direction.
Formed in 2015, the Advisory Council has played a vital role in guiding the organization’s work and ensuring that it reflects the priorities, values, and strengths of the First Nations we partner with.
This year’s gathering holds special meaning. As conversations unfold throughout the day, Council members are also reflecting on 10 years of Gakino’amaage—recognizing the relationships, teachings, and commitments that continue to guide the path forward.
Reflecting on 10 Years of Partnership
A panel discussion during the gathering offered a chance to reflect on the past decade of connection and community leadership. The discussion was moderated by Deanna Matthews, Vice President of Policy and Research, and featured Gakino’amaage Board Members Gail Gossfeld McDonald and Lyn Blackburde.
“It’s hard to believe it’s been 10 years of Gakino’amaage,” Deanna shared. “From the beginning, the work started with listening… and it continues today, as we sit in circle, listening to and learning from Advisory Council members.”
Gail, a member of Nisichawayasihk Cree Nation, reflected on the moment her community joined as a partner—and the values that made the decision feel right.
“Back in 2019, Lyn was the Director of Education at the Assembly of First Nations and had invited speakers from Gakino’amaage to present. I was really impressed with what I heard from them. I thought, ‘This partnership has got to happen for our community,’” Gail recalled.
“We still have a lot of work to do, but we each play our part in a good way. Hopefully in 10 years, we’ll be here again, hearing the visions of different First Nations communities—and seeing those visions come true.”
Andrea Mera, Executive Vice President at Gakino’amaage, presents Doreen Rae, Acting Education Director from Deer Lake First Nation, with an award recognizing 10 years of dedicated partnership. Doreen is one of seven inaugural Community Partner representatives honoured at the Advisory Council Meeting during Gakino’amaage’s 10th anniversary, in recognition of their vital contributions since 2015 in shaping the future of First Nations education.
Rooted in Local Leadership
Lyn Blackburde, an educator from Treaty 3 Manitou Rapids Rainy River First Nation and former principal in Big Grassy River First Nation, shared her story of what it took for her to stay in the community—and the power of meeting community-defined needs.
“I asked for ‘five teachers from Teach For Canada, five education assistants—one in each classroom—and teacherages so the teachers could live in the community.’ They made it all happen, and I became Principal.”
Her words served as a reminder that recruitment alone isn’t enough. Relationships—and responsive, community-led supports—make the difference.
Voices Guiding the Path Forward
The panel discussion also touched on the need for long-term solutions that address inequity and build toward self-determination in education. For many Council members, that means more consistent support, stronger staffing, and investments in First Nations students as future leaders and educators.
“Our children are smart. They have so much potential and ability,” Gail shared. “First Nations students must see themselves as future teachers, too.”
“There are so many stereotypes and negative perceptions around First Nations,” Lyn added, “but it was important for me to share the beauty of our culture, our people, and the love we have for our children with our teachers.”
The panel closed with an invitation to continue guiding the work ahead.
“Like Lyn said, we need to hear from everybody here,” Gail emphasized. “Speak out. Let us know what more can be done to meet your communities’ needs so we can help our children.”
Billie Cross, NDP MLA for Seine River, speaks at the Advisory Council Meeting. A lifelong teacher and proud Métis woman and proud Métis woman, Billie shared her perspective on the importance of Gakino’amaage’s work.
A Circle That Continues
As the 2025 Advisory Council Meeting continues, the conversation is not just about looking back—it’s about continuing to shape the way forward.
The direction ahead includes a deepened focus on supporting First Nations teacher certification and expanding program streams in direct response to the needs and guidance of Community Partners. This commitment reflects the path that has always led our work—one grounded in respect, humility, and reciprocity, and shaped by listening to community priorities.
The most meaningful direction always comes from the voices around the circle. And today, the voices of First Nations Community Partners lead the way.
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Gakino’amaage partners with First Nations across Northern Ontario, Manitoba, Alberta, and Saskatchewan to co-develop solutions that respond to each community’s needs. From teacher recruitment to program development, partnerships are grounded in respect, humility, and community direction. Explore the benefits of partnering with Gakino’amaage.