Unveiling the essence of our educational ethos, the Land-Based Training Program stands as a robust medium for enlightenment, healing, and fostering truth and reconciliation within the First Nations communities across North America.

 

Explore the Multifaceted Benefits:

 

Rediscovering the Land Connection:

 

The historical uprooting of Indigenous communities from their ancestral realms has birthed a deep disconnection with the land, a core facet of their identity and culture. This program endeavours to mend this disconnect, granting Indigenous youth the opportunity for meaningful engagement with the land, learning traditional land stewardship, and reigniting their cultural essence.

 

Resurrecting Indigenous Languages:

 

The scars of colonization, marked by forced assimilation and residential schooling, have pushed numerous Indigenous languages to the verge of oblivion. Language, being a crucial carrier of cultural identity, knowledge, and history, finds a revival through our program, which embarks on language learning and revitalization, aiding in the fortification and preservation of Indigenous languages.

 

Reclaiming Cultural Rituals and Melodies:

 

Indigenous cultural rituals and melodies, pivotal in transmitting history, knowledge, and values, have often been overshadowed or lost due to colonial pressures. Our program lays down a foundation for relearning and practicing these vital cultural expressions, thus aiding in cultural rejuvenation and healing.

 

Reestablishing Traditional Food Systems:

 

Bound to the land, traditional food systems are a vital part of Indigenous cultures, disrupted by colonial interventions and the onset of Western food systems. Our program unveils modules on traditional food gathering, preparation, and preservation, assisting in the reinstatement of these food systems and bolstering food sovereignty.

 

Reflecting on the "Four Pillars of Culture" by Weengushk, it’s apparent that these elements: land connection, language, cultural ritual, and traditional food, are focal in addressing the colonial scars, promoting healing and reconciliation, and revitalizing Indigenous cultures.

 

Moreover, Laurentian University (LU) acknowledges a maximum of 60 credits for students completing an equivalent 60 credits at WFI. Here's a glimpse of the WFI program combination under ‘Journey for Knowledge:

ARTS 9100: 6 credits
ARTS 9200: 15 credits
HIST 2616: The First Nations of Canada in Historical Perspective* (3 credits)
And more…

(*For details on historical courses, consult a WFI academic advisor.)

 

Embark on a transformative voyage of knowledge and cultural reawakening, where learning transcends classrooms, nurturing profound ties with heritage, identity, and community, coupled with academic credit recognition at Laurentian University.

 

Tuition: $15,000.00

 

Situated on the outskirts of M'Chigeeng First Nation on Manitoulin Island, the largest freshwater lake island globally, Weengushk Film Institute (WFI) revels in the natural splendour and rich cultural history, making it a coveted locale for media production.