Joel Gamache
First Nations, Métis, and Inuit Leader/Place-Based Learning Supervisor
Taanishi Joel Gamache dishinihkaashoon, Ruog aen nwayzoo di tonour dishinikason. Ma paraantii Lambert, Carriere, Dion, Rivard, Belanger, Bauchemin, Ducharme, Parisien, Klyne, Lafrance, Lariviere, Russian, Zace, Sayvoyard dit Berthelet, St. Denis.
Niiya gishcheetayemun ali Michif eweyawn.
Hello I am Joel Gamache, I am known by some as Red thunderbird man. In the Métis way, I introduced my kinship and family names. I am proud to be Métis.
I earned my Bachelor of Education degree from the University of Winnipeg and Master's Degree in Educational Leadership and Outdoor Education from St. Francis Xavier University in Nova Scotia. I am a former school administrator and learning support facilitator, and currently work as a First Nations, Métis, and Inuit Leader, Land-Based Learning Supervisor, and Principal of the FACES outdoor-based Summer Education Program. I have been working in Education since 2015 and have a passion for supporting students and outdoor education.
I am an active outdoorsman and enjoy engaging in traditional Métis practices. I spend much of my time with family and Elders enjoying the natural gifts shared from the outdoors.
I am an ambassador with the Rupertsland Institute, an active volunteer with the Alpine Club of Canada, an International Bow Hunter Education instructor, Wilderness First Responder, Alberta Conservation Hunter & Fishing Education instructor, canoe instructor, water safety instructor, lifeguard, and Duke of Edinburgh International Award Gold recipient.
As an educator, I believe that we can gain knowledge through experiences and stories. I can credit my educational approach to the traditional teaching style of my family. Education through experiences, mentorship, and morals through a story all play a large part in how I learn and teach. There is sacredness in sharing.
I also believe that adding components of outdoor education provides children with the opportunity to foster awareness, find value, choose and grow attributes of good character, boost self-esteem, and make meaningful connections. The shared vulnerability that results from outdoor education is grounds for growth and mentorship. Students learn that it’s the effort that matters. They come to understand that it’s okay if they don’t have all the answers yet; it’s about the journey.
