Elder Advisory Circle

The Elder Advisory Circle is composed of dedicated Indigenous Elders affiliated with IYMP. Elder Advisory Circle members are representatives of Indigenous communities from across Canada that have been part of IYMP in some capacity. Elders offer guidance, support and teachings through ceremony and prayer as well as when they meet with youth, whether at IYMP gatherings or training. Elders also advise on personal, professional and organizational matters, or just about any matter where you’ll listen. The IYMP Elder Advisory Circle brings community and Elder voices to the leadership team.

Duane Mistaken Chief

Duane Mistaken Chief is a Blackfoot Ceremony Grandfather / Elder (Aawaaahsskata) and Elder in general, from Kainai on the Blood Reserve in southern Alberta. His status as a Ceremony Aawaa’ahsskata was arrived at by being a member of every Sacred and Warrior…

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Duane Mistaken Chief

Duane Mistaken Chief is a Blackfoot Ceremony Grandfather / Elder (Aawaaahsskata) and Elder in general, from Kainai on the Blood Reserve in southern Alberta. His status as a Ceremony Aawaa’ahsskata was arrived at by being a member of every Sacred and Warrior Society in Kainai. And by having the rights to both types of Pipe Bundles – the Beaver Bundle and the Thunder-pipe bundles of the Blackfoot peoples. In the process, he completed every milestone required for that status – over decades – following long-established rules and protocols governing Blackfoot ceremony. He is a former instructor and senior lecturer at Red Community College, where he taught and conducted research for 18 years. He has taught for the University of Calgary, University of Lethbridge, Mount Royal University and other higher education institutions. Duane acquired a BSW from the UofC, completed his Masters work at the University of Lethbridge in “Native American Studies, Blackfoot Language Etymology,” and later received a KPhD from Red Crow College which was endorsed by the Elders and Chief of the Blood Tribe/Kainai for his years of research on the Blackfoot language and Lifeways of Kainai as well as being instrumental in the research and development of the now nationally recognized Indigenous Bachelor of Social Work. And instrumental, as well, in the establishment of the Kainai Studies program at Red Crow College on the Blood Reserve.

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Flora Northwest

Flora Northwest is a member of the Samson Cree Nation, a mother and a grandmother. Flora grew up being greatly influenced by her culture and family. Flora is a survivor of residential school where she was traumatized from the treatment she received…

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Flora Northwest

Flora Northwest is a member of the Samson Cree Nation, a mother and a grandmother. Flora grew up being greatly influenced by her culture and family. Flora is a survivor of residential school where she was traumatized from the treatment she received there. Throughout her life, Flora struggled with her mental health. She took a huge step towards healing when she admitted herself into a detox center in 1974. While there, Flora reflected on the traumas in her life that gave her the strength to heal and help others. Flora worked at the Detox Center, Medical Services Branch, Mayoskan Counseling Services, and Native Counseling Services using her skills, life experiences and cultural ways to support others through their healing journey. Since 1986, Flora has been working with children at Maskwacîs Education Schools Commission as an Elder. With everything Flora endured as a child in school, she wants to make sure every child has a chance to have the best future. Flora is an active member in her community. She has been involved as a health representative, community service volunteer, and spreads awareness of the lasting damage endured by survivors and the intergenerational trauma that continues to impact Indigenous communities today. Flora has also been guiding, supporting, and mentoring with the Indigenous Youth Mentorship Program (IYMP) since 2020. Flora's healing journey has helped not just herself and her family but many people struggling with identity, belonging and addictions by following the words of her Kokum (grandmother): "Be kind to yourself and give yourself a life that everyone deserves – a life filled with happiness."

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Alex Crowchild

Born and raised on the Tsuut’ina Nation, Alex is a respected Elder, fluent Tsuut’ina language speaker, and cultural advocate dedicated to preserving and revitalizing Tsuut’ina language, culture, and traditions. A Day School Survivor, he was raised by his grandfather, Grasshopper, who passed…

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Alex Crowchild

Born and raised on the Tsuut’ina Nation, Alex is a respected Elder, fluent Tsuut’ina language speaker, and cultural advocate dedicated to preserving and revitalizing Tsuut’ina language, culture, and traditions. A Day School Survivor, he was raised by his grandfather, Grasshopper, who passed down traditional teachings, ceremonies, and cultural knowledge that continue to guide his work today. Alex works closely with Elders, community organizations, and educational institutions to promote Tsuut’ina ways of knowing and being. He serves as Elder for the Kairos Blanket Exercise and the Writing Symbols Lodge at the University of Calgary, providing cultural guidance, prayers, and support to learners and communities. He is also actively involved in various committees and initiatives focused on language, culture, education, and land stewardship. Through his leadership and teachings, Alex continues to be a strong advocate for the Tsuut’ina language, culture, people, and lands.

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Daniel Mistaken Chief – Stamiiksopi (Sitting Bull)

Daniel is a member of Kainai Nation. Daniel was raised as a farmer and rancher. He received an Honors Diploma from Red Crow Community College in Agriculture Technology. Daniel was a minor chief for Kainai Nation from 2000-2004. He worked as an…

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Daniel Mistaken Chief – Stamiiksopi (Sitting Bull)

Daniel is a member of Kainai Nation. Daniel was raised as a farmer and rancher. He received an Honors Diploma from Red Crow Community College in Agriculture Technology. Daniel was a minor chief for Kainai Nation from 2000-2004. He worked as an Education Assistant for KBE and Family Connections Worker for KCFS to teach and share traditional knowledge with his community. Daniel has supported youth in the community as a hockey coach, basketball coach, and continues to do land-based teachings for schools. Daniel is a fluent blackfoot speaker who is well versed in Blackfoot ways of knowing, being and doing. Daniel continues to share his knowledge of the land with those who want to learn.

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