CELEBRATION OF LIFE: BRAIDING CULTURE & SCIENCE
The Akwesasne Family Wellness Program invites you to the 26th Annual Celebration of Life Conference!
This year’s theme, Braiding Culture & Science: Understanding Trauma, Neurobiology & Domestic Violence, will bring together Indigenous knowledge and science to explore the impacts of trauma, neurobiology, and domestic violence, while highlighting pathways toward healing and wellness.
The conference will feature keynote speakers:
- Cher Obediah – An Ojibway and Mohawk author, filmmaker, speaker, and educator from Six Nations of the Grand River Territory, with roots in Alderville First Nation. Her work focuses on Indigenous culture, holistic health, domestic violence, and youth initiatives, inspiring others to recognize their worth and support collective healing.
- Dr. Paul Van Donkelaar – A neuroscientist and professor at the University of British Columbia’s Okanagan campus, whose research focuses on brain injury and dysfunction related to intimate partner violence.
- Karen Mason – Co-founder and Executive Director of Supporting Survivors of Abuse and Brain Injury through Research (SOAR), to improve understanding and support for survivors of abuse and brain injury.
Additional guest speakers will feature:
- Sheldon Coté
- Sateiokwen Bucktooth
- Bear Fox
Date: November 18–19, 2026
Time: 8:30 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.
Location: Akwesasne Mohawk Casino Resort
Participants will enjoy breakfast and lunch each day, plus snacks, door prizes, tea making, social activities, and swag bags.
Register now by scanning the QR code on the flyer or sign up online at: https://forms.cloud.microsoft/r/K1h8eWP0j6?origin=lprLink
For questions, contact AFWP at afwpoutreach@akwesasne.ca or at 613-363-2858.
