Career Expo planned

Observer Staff

2/1/2006 12:00:00 AM

A two-day event intended to help build a mental, spiritual and physical foundation for Michigan's Native American students intending to pursue higher education opportunities will take place Feb. 9 and 10 on the Isabella Reservation at the Soaring Eagle Casino & Resort.

This year's theme for the 12th Annual Career Expo is "Anishnaabe'aadiziwin miinwaa Akinoomaadiwin Jinakaazang Giizhiitaawisidoying Kina Gegoo Ge-ni-zhiwebag (Preparing the Future Through Traditional Values and Lifelong Education).

"As educators we realize the importance of an education as our Tribal communities continue to grow and change, thus allowing us to excel as leaders in this ever-changing society," stated Higher Education Coordinator Sharon Hinmon. "As Anishinaabe, we also know the value of instilling our traditional values and beliefs in our youth, thus allowing them to become strong and confident leaders with the ability to lead Tribal Nations in a good, healthy way."

On Feb. 9, students will tour the Ziibiwing Center of Anishnabe Culture & Lifeways, as well as Central Michigan University. Three workshops and the opportunity to visit with about two dozen different college representatives is slated for Feb. 10.

The keynote address will be delivered on Feb. 10 by Konwatsitsa:wi Wemytewa. Konwatsitsa:wi is a passionate presenter who resides on the Kahnawake Reservation near Montreal. A high school teacher by trade, she is also a member of the Organizing Committee for the Native Wellness & Healing Institute. Her "Vision: Improving Self-Esteem Through Awareness" (VISTA) workshops and classes focus on the mantra, "I am the most powerful person in my life."

Konwatsitsa:wi will also be a workshop presenter along with Helen Roy (Ojibwe language) and George Martin (Sacred Colors and Directions).

For more information about the event, contact Hinmon at (989) 775-4505.