John LaForme (Government Name)

John sits in the Turtle Clan and descends from the Ojibwe and Mohawk people of the Mississaugas of the Credit Six Nations reservations in South Central Ontario. He comes from a traditional household where teachings were passed on through family and elders. These teachings are at the core of his identity and his understanding of his community.

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He holds a Community Worker Program certification from George Brown College and has 20 years of experience in the social services field, with a focus on supporting Indigenous communities in the GTA. As a Knowledge Keeper and Song Keeper, he is also committed to bringing back Indigenous teachings and ceremonies to community members everywhere. He believes in a holistic approach and advocates for the powerful impact culture and faith can have on mental health and recovery.

Mindido-Baashkikwa’am (Big Thunder)