By Rosalind Russell – Last week, during the Affirming Sovereignty in Education event in Sudbury, the Waawaaskonenh Foundation was launched by Kenjgewin Teg marking a new chapter in supporting Indigenous learners.
As part of the celebration, the Foundation’s Board of Directors introduced Dawn Madahbee Leach as the first chair.
Officials say as a long-time champion of Indigenous economic development, she brings decades of leadership, vision, and commitment to empowering communities.
President Beverley Roy adds it is an exciting time to begin thinking of new possibilities and bringing to the forefront many ideas they have been waiting to see come to fruition.
The Waawaaskonenh Foundation was created by Kenjgewin Teg to nurture lifelong learning, cultural renewal, and learner well-being. Incorporated as a non-profit in 2018 and recognized as a registered charity in 2024, the Foundation supports Indigenous education through scholarships, bursaries, and programs that go beyond traditional funding.
Guided by its vision of nurturing lifelong learning, healing, and growth, and its mission to support learners through Anishinaabemowin and Anishinaabe teachings, the Foundation works in partnership with Kenjgewin Teg to create wholistic learning environments where learners can grow, heal, and thrive.
Just as the name “Waawaaskonenh,” meaning “flower,” suggests, the Foundation helps learners flourish, connecting them to culture, language, and community.
Photo: Waawaaskonenh Foundation logo designed by Joy Simon Design.
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