The Mamawi Project: Celebrating Together Series
Celebrating — Garrick Schmidt
Where are you from?
Katepwa, Saskatchewan (The Valley)
As a Métis person how do you walk in a way that honours your responsibilities to our nation, other Indigenous communities, the land and waters?
I pride myself in the teachings that I do on the community that I teach on with Ochapowace First Nation at Kakisiwew School. I specialize as a land-based educator promoting healthy relationships to the land and how to respect that. I have been furthering my knowledge to better serve my community and continue the revitalization of transferring traditional knowledge to students as well as community members.
What medicines do you carry that have helped you on your path?
I practice hunting in a traditional way from using a long bow and compound bow. I also have trapping skills that I share with my students. I am a relationship orientated person and pride myself in having students feel comfortable and respected. While on the land with my students I have seen such growth in our short amount of time together. Any behaviour challenges are almost gone and the confidence students have after our time on the land is wonderful to see. In this next school year I am revitalizing the sport of dog sledding with our community at Ochapowace sharing my love and passion for the sport.
Anything else you would like to add?
If you’d like to learn land-based practices follow my online accounts! If you have questions on anything that I have done please ask. Also thank you to everyone for the continued support during the last year! Hiy hiy
