A dedicated student of life, from birth Laura has been surrounded by the arts, culture and creative energy. She grew up in a home filled with inspiration (musical instruments, art supplies and literature). She has explored an array of cultural adventures, taking her across a spectrum of art forms (music, dance, creative writing, performing arts, painting and sculpture).
Laura is a woman who is deeply connected to her Aboriginal (Anishnaabe/Ojibwe) ancestry. From a young age, she grew up learning traditional ways of life, dances and songs from her family and while travelling to many Pow Wows and traditional gatherings in Canada and the US. Though the journey of being at peace with her identity hasn’t always been easy, Laura has evolved into the colourful weave of who she is with love and humour. She shares her experience and worldview as “A Jelly Donut Indian – white on the outside and red on the inside”. Finding innovative ways to integrate tradition in a modern, urban lifestyle is an important part of her daily life. Laura proclaims that her “beige at best” skin tone serves as a bright light to illuminate cultural resilience and her strength as a modern Anishnaabe Kwe (Ojibwe Woman).
Laura spent many years as a Program Facilitator in the social service sector. She has designed arts-based awareness raising and popular education programs for youth and women which explore various topics in creative, artistic and moving ways. Laura loved her work in the aboriginal community with women who were fleeing violence, women in conflict with the law (both inside and outside correctional facilities), families and youth. She provided crisis support, advocacy and support team facilitation in a holistic and culturally sensitive approach.
While working in this field, she delivered many Aboriginal Historical & Cultural Awareness presentations and workshops at conferences, staff development meetings and retreats for many agency groups including Shelter Services, Corrections Services, Child & Family Service agencies. These interactive and moving presentations provided the necessary historical and cultural context needed to better understand the interwoven social barriers in urban and on-reserve aboriginal communities.
Laura’s love for the arts and raising awareness, have come together in a meaningful way through Arts Education. Using lesson plans based on the Ontario Ministry of Education Curriculum, Laura engages students and teachers through the arts (storytelling, drama, music and visual arts) and share aboriginal culture and history in a way that strengthens character, promotes community participation and environmental responsibility.
With a vibrant life built on the essence of self expression, knowledge building and spirit, Laura is passionate about her livelihood sharing Nia, wellness and creativity with her community.
