Session #5 of Transformational Leadership: Leading From the Inside Out 2021 Program
May 25, 2022
Transform Your Leadership: Drawing From Indigenous Wisdom
Leadership from an Indigenous perspective is not just for the educated and elected, rather, it is a time-honoured belief that each person is born with intuitive strengths that can assist the overall better-ment of the community.
Indigenous leadership focuses on being connected to others, but not in a hierarchical way. Even if formal power is given to an Indigenous leader, they tend not to draw upon it. Rather, they see themselves as being part of a community that is working toward a goal; and all voices are held as equal and important. The influence of Western thought has led us away from this concept.
How can we rethink leadership, to give thought to the original philosophies and practices of Indigenous peoples and to give voice to invisible leaders?
How can we learn from Indigenous leaders about resilience and building strong communities as a collective effort?
These practices and stories come from Sheri Doxtator’s personal experiences. Her teachings and learnings represent the views of the Oneida Nation while at the same time holding commonalities of history, tradition and cultural traditions shared by Indigenous people.
As part of this session, you will receive a small smudge kit and you will learn about the importance of smudging and Indigenous medicine from Sheri. The smudge is a symbol for our connection with the earth and is a prayer ceremony that is used to help connect our prayers to the Creator.
NOTE: Smudging should not be used without the proper teachings and guidance and should be used specifically for the purpose it is meant for.
ABOUT THE PRESENTER:
Sheri Doxtator
Sheri D is a citizen of Oneida Nation and member of the Turtle Clan. She is grounded in Indigenous Traditional Teachings. She is a Matriarchal Influencer with her company, Doxtator Enterprises. Her experience and education is in Community Justice, Mental Health and Addictions Services, First Nations politics, advocacy, fundraising, community development, facilitation, master of ceremonies, research and relationship management. Sheri D is also pursuing an academic career in the Justice Sector.