WSD and Roseau River Anishinaabe First Nation Partner for 7th Annual Gathering

Approximately 54 participants from Winnipeg School Division—including Build From Within students, teachers, directors, administrators, and senior leaders—recently gathered at Ginew School, located in Roseau River Anishinaabe First Nation, to take part in the 7th Annual Gathering of Friends professional development event. 

The Gathering of Friends is a meaningful opportunity to come together in the spirit of friendship, story-sharing, and cultural learning. Ginew School is a member of the Manitoba First Nations School System, a First Nations-designed and led school system established by the Manitoba First Nations Education Resource Centre.  

Throughout the day, WSD participants had the honour of hearing from local leaders and National Chief Cindy Woodhouse Nepinak. They attended a variety of workshops led by local Knowledge Keepers and Elders, covering topics such as Anishinaabe life, sweat lodge teachings, Indigenous games, residential schools, Anishinaabemowin, and more. It was a powerful opportunity for participants to deepen their understanding of Indigenous culture and history. 

“Engaging in the teachings of Knowledge Carriers, Elders, and community educators offered a powerful reminder of the strength, beauty, and brilliance of Indigenous ways of knowing and being,” says Mohammad Rezai, Assistant Superintendent of Anti-Racism, Equity and Climate Justice. “This day was more than professional development—it was an opportunity to reconnect with our relatives on the land, to listen with an open heart and mind, and to walk forward in a good way.”

The day also included a shared lunch in community, followed by an afternoon powwow where some WSD participants joined in the dancing alongside community members. The event concluded with a traditional round dance that brought all participants together in a circle of unity and respect. This annual gathering strengthens connections with the Indigenous communities and reaffirms WSD’s commitment to reconciliation and learning. 

WSD extends its deepest gratitude to Ginew School and the community of Roseau River Anishinaabe First Nation for their generosity, leadership, and willingness to share their knowledge and traditions.