Knowledge Keeper Bios

Nyle is an Anishnaabe artist, storyteller and Oshkaabewis (Traditional Helper) from Chippewas of Nawash Unceded First Nation. His art depicts the interconnectedness of all living things and incorporates teachings based on traditional knowledge. Nyle has worked on numerous projects supporting community organizations such as Anishnawbe Health Toronto, 7th Generation Image Makers, Chippewas of Nawash Health Centre, TakingITGlobal, Canadian Roots Exchange, Lower Simcoe Underpass Mural Project, Bold Realities Project, Sketch Toronto and Inkdigenous Tattoo Studio and Gallery. His work draws inspiration from woodland painters, Storytellers and the traditions of his Anishnaabe culture. 

Cecile Akiwenzie-Martin is an Ojibway First Nations woman from the Turtle Clan originally from Neyaashiinigmiing. She married into Mohawk tradition and currently resides in Six Nations of the Grand River First Nations Territory. 

As a mother, Nokomis, Lodge Conductor, Sundancer, Aboriginal Midwife, RPN, Reflexologist, Aromatherapist, Artist, and Entrepreneur, she has received her Spirit name (Manitou Waabshki Mshkiniinh) and completed her first strawberry fast.

 Additionally, she has received songs, sundanced in South Dakota, and was trained to conduct the Sacred Grandmother Full Moon Lodge, during which she received a Sacred Pipe for the lodge all under the instruction of the Late Frank Ewart Settee. Cecile now has over 20 years of experience and training in various areas of health and well-being work.

James Carpenter is a recognized Indigenous Traditional Healer and Oshkabewis (Helper). His First Nations Ancestry is from the Anishnaabek and Mississauga First Nation of Alderville, Chippewa ancestry from the Traditional territory around the Great Lakes, Oneida ancestry from Upper New York State, and the Cree Nation from the shores of James Bay. He continues to reclaim his Anishnaabek and Chipewyan and Cree languages. James specializes in providing Indigenous Traditional Healing Services and Sacred Indigenous Ceremonies to children, families, and communities.

James Costello is first and foremost a proud Father of a wonderful Son, a blessed dog dad and the luckiest husband in this world. James is part of the Chippewas of Nawash, who call the beautiful lands of Neyaashiinigmiing home. This scenic spot is located off the north west shores of Georgian Bay and is also referred to as Cape Croker Reservation. The Spirits know James as Dabaadendizewiin Mukwa (Bear Carrying Humility) and Wawa Wiiska Ney Saat Gitchi Inni (Big Man Who Shines Bright) . He is part of the Bear Clan. James has spent most of his life living in Toronto where he was born. He has spent over a decade working within the Indigenous community there as well. He has had the honour of being an Osh-ka- be-wis (Traditional Helper) learning and assisting Traditional Healers in helping his peoples overcome struggles related to the effects of colonisation.  He currently holds the position of Indigenous Health Promoter at Durham Community Health Centre. In addition he sits on the Board of Directors for the Toronto Green Community and is currently assisting Lakeridge Health design Indigenous spaces in the new Bownamanville hospital. His hope is to continue to learn and share in an environment of mutual respect, just as his ancestors had originally agreed to.  Favourite quote “it does not require many words to speak the truth” -Chief Joseph