Margo Auger
Nation:
Bigstone Cree Nation, Treaty No. 8 Territory
Organization:
Apiskwai Kihiw Consulting Ltd., founded by Margo, means “Golden Eagle” in Cree, symbolizing vision, wisdom, and strength. The consulting focuses on Nationhood, First Nation Governance, Grassroots and First Nation led Constitution and Law Development, Facilitation, and Treaty teachings.
- Courses:
Indigenous Women in Leadership Program - Grassroots Peacebuilding
Margo shared that she came away from the Grassroots Peacebuilding course with greater understanding of international conflicts, new teaching and peacebuilding techniques, as well as new friendships: “My classmates are my friends today. We stay connected and continue to empower one-another.”
I have been honouring my truths with open mind and open heart.
Margo also shared about the significance of her project called Honouring My Spirit that she developed for IWICL: “It was about how my spirit was awoken, who I am, my identity and roots, my walk in life with my moccasins (using my western knowledge and my inherent way of being as a nehiyaw iskew); I spoke about how important it is to honour your spirit, honour who you are, to persevere and keep [atter] – don’t give up. An Elder once said to me ‘don’t question where you are at today – there is a reason for it and although you may not know why that is right now, one day it will come to you. Until then, stay open minded’. I listened and I have been honouring my truths with open mind and open heart.”
Margo emphasized the importance of the sponsorships that are provided for IWICL participants as “vital and very beneficial” for enabling many Indigenous people to participate who might not otherwise be able to afford the fees.