We are honoured to nominate the Matawa Education Elders – Emily Jacob from Webequie First Nation, Sarah Moonias from Neskantaga First Nation, Joseph (Jojo) Missewace from Eabametoong First Nation, Leonard Ferris from Constance Lake First Nation and John Gagnon from Aroland First Nation – as Holiday Heroes.
Their dedication to creating a positive and culturally rich environment for Indigenous students at the Matawa Education and Care Centre is truly inspiring.
Emily, Sarah, Jojo, Leonard and John play pivotal roles in fostering connections with students and staff, ensuring a safe and welcoming space for over 1,000 student visits to the Elders’ Lounge each month.
Their work goes far beyond traditional teaching—they provide emotional support, cultural guidance, and an enduring sense of belonging for students who are often separated from their families and communities to pursue education.
Through her almost daily prayer and announcements, Emily has often shared her deep commitment to preventing history from repeating itself, a sentiment echoed by all the Elders as they tirelessly nurture the well-being of students.
Their contributions include hosting smudging ceremonies, teaching traditional skills like hide tanning, beading, and drum making, and sharing invaluable teachings through storytelling and workshops. Through their efforts, traditional knowledge and culture are integrated across the curriculum, bridging generational wisdom with modern education.
These Elders embody the spirit of community and resilience. They selflessly dedicate their time and knowledge to preserving Indigenous traditions while empowering the next generation. Their compassion, wisdom, and cultural leadership have profoundly impacted students, families, and the wider Matawa community.
I wholeheartedly believe Emily, Sarah, Jojo, Leonard and John deserve to be celebrated as Holiday Heroes for their unwavering commitment to making our community better, one student at a time.
Elders Emily Jacob, Sarah Moonias, Joseph (Jojo) Missewace, and John Gagnon have been nominated as Holiday Heroes by staff at the Matawa Education & Care Centre
