Our Children Our Way National Conference 2025 – Announcing 2026 Dates
A message from Our Children Our Way Executive Director Joni Conlon …
Dear Elders, Leaders, and Colleagues,
On behalf of the organizing committee and our entire team, I want to extend my heartfelt thanks to everyone who joined us for the Our Children Our Way 2025 National Conference. Your presence, participation, and commitment made this gathering a truly meaningful and inspiring experience.
A sincere thank you to our presenters, vendors, and sponsors—your dedication, knowledge, and support enriched every part of the conference and helped create a space of learning, connection, and hope.
We were deeply honored to welcome two extraordinary Keynote Speakers this year.
Shayla Stonechild invited us to reflect on the importance of healing—both collectively and within ourselves—and reminded us of the power we each hold to heal and help others heal. Her message encouraged us to centre wellness, self-awareness, and inherent strength as we continue this vital work.
Dr. Cindy Blackstock inspired us to act collectively and in solidarity, and to lead with courage on behalf of children, who deserve nothing less than our full commitment and advocacy. Her words were a powerful call to action—urging us to stand together and ensure that every child experiences justice, equity, and care.
To our amazing organizing team and volunteers, thank you for your tireless efforts in creating such an exceptional and well-organized event. Your dedication and hard work ensured that Our Children Our Way 2025 was both impactful and memorable. We’re already looking ahead with excitement to next year!
Save the date for the 5th Annual Our Children Our Way Conference: November 30 to December 3, 2026 – Vancouver Convention Centre
Registration will open in June 2026, so keep watching our website and social media channels for updates and announcements.
Finally, we value your input as we continue to grow and improve. Conference evaluations will be sent out in the following week—please take a few minutes to share your feedback so we can incorporate your insights into next year’s spectacular event.
Thank you once again for being part of this important movement. Together, we continue to walk the path of hope, healing, and empowerment—for our children, our communities, and our future. See you next year!
Mussi, heíʔχʷq̓əm̓
Joni Conlon (she/her), Executive Director, Our Children Our Way Secretariat
Mobile: 604 803-7371 – Email: [email protected]
2025 Our Children Our Way Secretariat Team
(L-R) Roberta Van Steinburg, Elizabeth Adefowokan, Lori Mason, Crystal E. Lewis, Kayla Swing, Simone Pattyson, Tracy Lavin, Joni Conlon, Deb Foxcroft, Charlene Napoleon, Bart Knudsgaard, Judy Wilson
MIA: Michelle Morning Star Doherty, Marc Woons, Darien Smallboy-Erminskin (IYIP Intern), Tracy Malchuk