About Us
Education that puts community first
Indigenous Community for Leadership and Development (ICLD) has been in existence for over 20 years. We have experience working in over 90 First Nations communities in British Columbia and have developed strong relationships with these communities. We place Indigenous traditional knowledge at the forefront of our operations. Our guiding principles are influenced by traditional knowledge and our corporate philosophy is rooted in the 7 Grandfather Teachings. We are committed to fostering reconciliation. Indigenous people are the fastest growing demographic in Canada and developing strong relationships based on trust will be vital in the coming years.
Our dedicated team is committed to ICLD values and our expertise will allow your organization to be better equipped in Indigenous knowledge and culture. We have three main streams: Community Based Services, Corporate Services and Health and Wellness. ICLD is committed to providing our professional expertise and lived experience with Indigenous culture which shapes our organization.
Please contact us for more information on ICLD services.
Mission
To support the journey toward truth and reconciliation by collaborating with Indigenous communities and, private and public sectors to design programs and services that prioritize equitable access to resources.
Vision
To create an inclusive, equitable and collaborative future for Indigenous and non-Indigenous generations that honors all our relations.
Purpose
To build respectful pathways and implement necessary frameworks that facilitate reconciliation by sharing indigenous ways of knowing and Indigenous ways of learning that honors community.
Our Professional Team
GUIDING PRINCIPLES
TO CREATE AN ENVIRONMENT OF TRUTH AND RECONCILIATION
1
ICLD builds meaningful partnerships with communities that inform, strengthen, and empower individuals and communities through engaging in critical inquiry. We strive to form strong relationships capable of withstanding the tests of time – relationships upheld through honesty, trust, determination, and respect.
2
By respecting and employing diverse worldview frameworks in the programs that we offer, ICLD collaborates with communities to nurture their self-determination, empowerment, and capacity for economic growth and human resource development. We acknowledge that each community is different, and work with communities to identify their unique strengths and tailor opportunities to support the building of capacities in accordance with communities’ stated priorities.
3
With the awareness that every community is positioned differently regarding their stance toward ceremony and empowerment, ICLD’s team of passionate and compassionate individuals use trauma-informed practices to navigate support efforts. We know that generational trauma presents in many forms within communities, and we connect with local wellness networks to provide additional support because we believe that the communities and individuals that we support are the experts on what they need to thrive.
Seven Grandfather (Sacred) Teachings
The Seven Grandfather (Sacred) Teachings are based in Anishnaabe (Ojibway) spirituality and are high-level spiritual concepts that many Indigenous nations have incorporated into their spiritual practices. Understanding these Teachings gives valuable insight into traditional Indigenous worldviews. Note that there may be variations among various nations, however the essence of these teachings can be applied in a broad based manner for both Indigenous and non-Indigenous people to adopt as values.
The Bear
Courage
Aakwade’ewin
Just like how the bear faces nature alone and the mother bear protects her young, the bear teaches us courage.
True courage stems from inner resilience and self-acceptance.
Tackle your fears to authentically embrace life.
The Wolf
Humility
Dbaadendiziwin
Wolves live in packs in which the strongest wolves follow the weakest to ensure the safety of the pack- no wolf is left behind.
Humility: Live selflessly, not selfishly, respecting your position and acknowledging the achievements of others.
The Sasquatch/Raven
Honesty
Gwekwaadizin
Represented by Sasquatch (Bigfoot) in some cultures and the Raven in others, an honest individual stands confidently, utilizing their unique abilities for progress and survival, without coveting the traits of others.
The Beaver
Wisdom
Nbwaakaawin
The beaver symbolizes wisdom by using its natural survival instincts intelligently.
Use your gifts wisely to guide life. Embrace differences kindly, within yourself and others.
The Turtle
Truth
Debwewin
The turtle embodies truth, observing Earth’s creation and carrying life’s teachings.
Its unhurried manner values journey and destination. Stay true to yourself and all beings.
The Buffalo
Respect
Mnaadendimowin
The buffalo symbolizes respect, selflessly supporting human life to honour balance and others’ needs.
Honouring creation embodies respect. Live with integrity in teachings and actions toward all.
The Eagle
Love
Zaagidwin
Soaring near the Creator, the Eagle imparts the core teaching of love, central to all.
An eagle feather signifies sacredness and honour.
Benefits of the Seven Grandfather Teachings
- Cultivation of authentic and meaningful relationships.
- Can lead to stronger connections with Indigenous communities.
- Play a role in building bridges and promoting understanding.
- Contribute to your overall well-being and fulfillment.
- Contribute to social justice efforts.
- Foster healing and reconciliation in society.