Learning Opportunities

Layla Dumont is a Nehyiaw iskwew (Cree Woman) from the Onion Lake Cree Nation in Treaty 6 territory. Layla holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology and has experience in education, public safety through traditional healing and community-based rehabilitation including her work as a parole officer at a healing lodge for Indigenous women and in a community-based violence prevention program for Indigenous youth. Layla works through an Indigenous cultural lens based on understanding of, and healing from, historic trauma through connection to spirit, culture, and community. Layla has also worked with the Alberta School Boards Association as the Indigenous Relations Coordinator, supporting education communities across Alberta in their journey towards reconciliation and is honoured to be back working directly with her people to address racism, discrimination, and sexism through Roots of Resilience. 

Seneca Dueck (Crowe) is a member of the Kahkewistahaw First Nation in Treaty 4 territory. Born Salteaux/Assiniboine Seneca was raised in the ways of the Nakota people of Treaty 6 territory. Seneca’s career has been focused in Education working to support Indigenous youth in their endeavors to navigate the public education system in Alberta, and to inspire non-Indigenous youth to confront long held views of Canadian history through the experiences and lens of Indigenous peoples and the complex relationships with the people of this land. Some highlights of her career include serving as the National Education Strategist for the Moose Hide Campaign, supporting Healing Our Spirit Worldwide, Project of Heart, the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada Education events, the College of Alberta School Superintendents FNMI Gathering and more through volunteer work.  Through this journey Seneca recognizes her responsibility to pass along the teachings of her Elders, family and community and sees Roots of Resilience as the avenue to create positive social change in this country.  She is honoured to use her own agency to support this important work.