The Indigenous Advisory Circle is essential to advancing Truth and Reconciliation work at Siloam Mission. Acting as cultural knowledge holders, the IAC works with Siloam’s Leadership and Board by ensuring a diversity of Indigenous perspectives are shared in Siloam’s delivery of programs and services, developing and revising policies, as well as advancing relations and partnerships with other organizations in order to help us better meet the needs of those whom we serve.
Commitment to Truth and Reconciliation
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30 Days of Reconciliation
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Indigenous Advisory Circle
Derek Hart (Okimaw Mikisiw) is a member of Nisichawayasihk Cree Nation. Derek has a bachelor’s degree in Political Science & Criminal Justice, and an Honor’s degree in Public Administration. In October, 2022, Derek received his Master’s Diploma in Public Administration (MPA). Derek has worked for the Manitoba Justice Department in ‘Probation services’ and for the Manitoba Indian Education Association as a ‘High School Education Councilor’. In 2019 Derek was a cultural assistant for the closing ceremonies of the National Inquiry into Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls (MMIWG) and in 2010, he was the Cultural Coordinator for the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s (TRC) first National event held in Winnipeg. Derek previously worked with Parks Canada as the Knowledge Weaver for the Manitoba Field Unit South. He is also the Education Day Coordinator for the Manito Ahbee Festival and currently works for Nisichawayasihk Cree Nation as the Associate CEO.
Kendell Joiner, Méstaéhotóá’e (Ghost Bull), North Star Woman, is a proud member of the Northern Cheyenne Nation, rooted deeply in the traditions and values of their community in Lame Deer, Montana. Growing up immersed in his tribe’s culture, Kendell’s life has been guided by the principles of balance, relationalism, and collective well-being. These values are at the heart of their work as the Chief Executive Pathfinder of the Native Clan Organization, where they lead with a focus on creating healing focused spaces that honor Indigenous ways-of-being within systems that are often dominated by western norms.
In addition to their leadership role, Kendell is the founder of Ghost Bull Consultancy, an independent small consulting firm that provides expert navigation in bringing balanced Indigenous ways-of-being to traditionally western systems for the benefit of community. His educational background in Criminal Justice, Corrections, leadership, and Public Administration empowers him to challenge and transform systems, striving to create a world that is not only more balanced but also deeply empathetic. Kendell’s work is a testament to his commitment to fostering understanding and respect between diverse ways of knowing and being.
Kaila Johnston is a member of Ochapowace First Nation (Treaty 4) but grew up and works in Winnipeg (Treaty 1). She is the Supervisor of Education, Outreach, and Public Programming at the National Centre for Truth and Reconciliation (NCTR). In this role, Kaila oversees matters related to the support of educators, development of resources, establishment of outreach initiatives, as well as public engagement on residential schools and their legacy. Prior to the NCTR, Kaila worked with the Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC) as a statement gatherer and coordinator to support statement gathering activities. She holds a BA (Hons.) in Criminal Justice from the University of Winnipeg and a M.Sc. in International Crimes and Criminology from Vrije Universiteit, Amsterdam.
Skye McLean is a student at the University of Winnipeg pursuing an Indigenous Studies and Inner City Studies degree. Skye is also an entrepreneur running her own small Indigenous art business. Growing up in Winnipeg’s inner city; she faced issues such as homelessness, poverty, addiction, and violence. Skye became deeply passionate about harm reduction, the right to safety, and the sharing of Indigenous knowledge as a result of her experiences. Her medicine is traditional beading, and being connected to her roots enables her to live ‘miyo pimatisiwin’, or “the good life.” Her goal is to help improve lives in Winnipeg and help them heal.
Knowledge Keeper Florence Paynter (Blue Thunderbird Woman) is from Sandy Bay First Nation and a band member of Norway House Cree Nation. She is a third degree Mide Anishinabekwe and holds a Masters Degree in Education from the University of Manitoba. Florence speaks Anishinabe fluently and has been involved in many language and cultural initiatives and ceremonies. She helps teach the cultural and spiritual knowledge and traditions of the Anishinabe people. Florence attended residential school and works hard to teach others about the history of First Nations people, the legacy of Indian residential schools, and its impact on us as people.
Florence is member of the Grandparent Council of the City of Winnipeg, which meets regularly to help one another with issues and concerns and provide advice. She is also a member of the Speakers Bureau for the Treaty Relations Commission. Florence has shared teachings about First Nations laws and cultures for many years. She was one of the contributors in the “Anishinaabe Nibi Inaakonigewin Report” (2013) which was produced by the University of Manitoba’s Centre for Human Rights Research and Public Interest Law Centre about Anishinaabe water laws. She is also one of the authors of “Ogichi Tibakonigawyin, Kihche Othasowewin, Tako Wakan: The Great Binding Law,” developed with other Knowledge Keepers at the Turtle Lodge and a co-author of Wahbanung – The Resurgence of a People: Clearing the Path for our Survival, publication pending.