Young Indigenous Women Drive Change and Hope at the 7th Annual She Is Wise Conference

Young Indigenous Women Drive Change and Hope at the 7th Annual She Is Wise Conference

Ottawa, ON | February 9–11, 2026 – The Ontario Native Women’s Association (ONWA) is convening Indigenous women and allies from across Ontario this week in Ottawa for the 7th Annual She Is Wise Conference, a three-day gathering grounded in spirit, community, and healing. Against the backdrop of unsettling and unpredictable challenges at home and around the world, She Is Wise is more than a conference – it is a call to action, ignited by the optimism and unapologetic voices of young Indigenous women courageously leading the way forward.

The Youth Making Change Panel on Wednesday, February 11th, brings together inspiring youth leaders advancing climate justice (Shelby Gagnon and Shaelyn Wabegijig), language revitalization (Tia Adams), elimination of sex discrimination (Zoe Craig-Sparrow), and the reclamation of cultural knowledge through Sugar Bush teachings (Daanis Pelletier). Through their lived experiences and powerful perspectives, this panel offers a glimpse into the future—one rooted in culture, tradition, creativity, and action.

“Young Indigenous women lead and create change differently. We have much to learn from our young leaders as they build networks of support and solidarity in their communities, nationally and internationally, while leading from the heart,” said Cora McGuire-Cyrette, ONWA Chief Executive Officer. “We must respect and support their empowerment. They strengthen and inform our collective resolve, lift our spirits, and honour the ancestors.”

The day concludes with teachings that honour the land and the water, followed by a live fashion show featuring Wabanoonkwe Irick, sharing Cultural Couture & Indigenous Storytelling.

Youth Making Change Panel: February 11th, 2026, 9:15 a.m. – 10:30 a.m.

Teachings on Land and Water & Live Fashion Show: February 11th, 2026, 1:00 p.m. – 3:30 p.m.

Conference Dates: February 9–11, 2026

Location: Westin Ottawa Hotel (11 Colonel By Dr, Ottawa, ON K1N 9J1)

For more information and media inquiries, contact: 

Andre Morriseau, Communications Manager
Ontario Native Women’s Association (ONWA)
Email: amorriseau@onwa.ca

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About the Ontario Native Women’s Association (ONWA)

ONWA is a not-for-profit organization that empowers and supports all Indigenous women and their families in the province of Ontario through research, advocacy, policy development, and programs that focus on local, regional, and provincial activities.

Established in 1971, ONWA delivers culturally enriched programs and services to Indigenous women and their families regardless of their status or locality. We are committed to providing services that strengthen communities and guarantee the preservation of Indigenous culture, identity, art, language, and heritage.

Ending violence against Indigenous women and their families and ensuring equal access to justice, education, health services, environmental stewardship, and economic development sit at the cornerstone of the organization. ONWA insists on social and cultural well-being for all Indigenous women and their families, so that all women, regardless of tribal heritage, may live their best life.

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