How Kayas Nehiyaw Came to Be?

  In 2011, my belief in the Western education system shattered.

The belief that it was our “new buffalo” dissipated more as I studied “nehiyaw pimatisowin”. I was particularly focused on “nistotamowin” (wholistic ) and “isowin” (energy) with the knowledge keepers. I was led to participate in and learn about the ceremonial rituals.

Through my role in the educational system, I realised that I was helping perpetuate the loss of our Nehiyaw language and culture. Ultimately, I would witness the loss of our knowledge systems and ways of knowing. 

I was helping lead our children away from their creator-given gifts (nehiyawēwin):  

 Language, Ceremony, Land, Medicine, Health, Blessings, and Pipe.

With a Master’s Degree in Educational Leadership I have researched and determined the priority that must be given to the revitalization of our language through ceremony I have come to the complete understanding that it is only through nehiyaw that we will awaken our spirit and find our strength.