Ask Auntie: Reclaiming the Role of Aunties in Indigenous Education

Presented by Taylor Behn-Tsakoza

What happens when Indigenous young people are given space to learn on the land, strengthen their identities, and build relationships with trusted mentors who remind them of who they are and where they come from?

This presentation shares the story and emerging practice of Ask Auntie, a community-based, land-based wellness and mentorship program created for Indigenous girls and Two-Spirit youth ages 10–14 in Fort Nelson First Nation. Grounded in Dene ways of knowing, Ask Auntie recognizes the important role aunties and other kinship relationships have traditionally held in supporting young people as they grow, learn, and understand their responsibilities within community.

Through a combination of personal storytelling, evidence-informed practice, and lessons learned from developing and delivering Ask Auntie, Taylor will explore how land-based learning, cultural connection, mentorship, physical activity, language, and intergenerational knowledge can strengthen identity, belonging, wellness, and confidence among Indigenous youth.

The presentation will also consider how educators can move beyond conventional classroom approaches by recognizing land, family, community, and culture as essential parts of Indigenous education. Participants will leave with practical ideas for creating culturally grounded learning and mentorship opportunities within their own schools and communities—and an invitation to consider a simple question: Who are the aunties our young people need, and how can we create space for them?