I am looking to receive funding in order to share Aboriginal knowledge, particularly in schools. I have a strong interest in sharing Aboriginal culture, and I see a great benefit in sharing culture with the younger generation.

RELEVANT SKILLS

My English name is Charlene; my spirit name is “Looking Far Eagle”. I am from the Bear clan. I was born and raised in Winnipeg, Manitoba. It was late in my life that I found out I was not just French, but I was indeed Ojibway and Cree. I am also an Aboriginal knowledge keeper.

Writing

In 2014, I wrote an autobiography called “Through My Eyes”, under the pen name Mia Teller. I wrote this book because I wanted to express to the readers that you can overcome trauma.

I have written several children’s books on various Aboriginal topics, also under the pen name Mia Teller:
• Timothy and the Seven Teachings (2015)
• Timothy Learns to Smudge (2016)
• Timothy Goes to a Sweat (2017)
• Timothy Goes to a Powwow (2018)

Drumming

In 2015, I was hired by St. Amant to drum and sing songs in front of a group of individuals with disabilities.

Also in 2015, I gathered a group that performed for the memorial of Thelma Krull, a missing woman in the Winnipeg area. We sang, smudged, and drummed for her family and friends.

I facilitated the “Buffalo Gals” drumming group for 2 months in 2015. I worked alongside women and children doing smudging, as well as organized the seating area, and lead the drumming group in song.

Volunteering

In 2017 and 2018, I fundraised and gathered items for a silent auction to support “IAM” – Indigenous Adoptee’s Movement.

From 2014 to 2017, I volunteered at the North End Women’s Center. I participated in community drumming events, performed drumming in schools, and worked at garage sales to fundraise for the Center.

Employment

I have been fostering children since 2016, working for St Amant and Marymound. I was previously employed at St Amant for 15 years as a Direct Support Professional, working specifically in one of the children’s homes.