ABOUT
Mission
To accelerate the human collective's understanding that we can do and think different by remembering who we are.
Vision
We envision a world where everyone has the tools and knowledge to cultivate safe spaces within themselves, empowering them to make positive decisions for their families, communities, nations, and the land.
Values
Respect for tradition and innovation: we honour Indigenous traditions while embracing innovative approaches to education and systemic change.
Our History
Founded by Elaine Alec, a respected member of Syilx (Okanagan) and Secwépemc (Shuswap) Nations, Naqsmist Storytellers Inc. began as a consultancy focused on Indigenous planning and community engagement. With her deep understanding of Indigenous knowledge and systemic change, Elaine shifted the organization’s focus towards developing online platforms and courses that allow for a broader, global reach. This evolution was driven by the desire to make the Cultivating Safe Spaces (CSS) framework accessible to a wider audience, promoting systemic change through education and empowerment.
Our Values
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Respect for Tradition and Innovation: We honor Indigenous traditions while embracing innovative approaches to education and systemic change.
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Inclusivity and Collaboration: We strive to include diverse voices in all aspects of our work, believing that true innovation arises from varied perspectives and collaborative efforts.
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Integrity and Accountability: We commit to operating with integrity and holding ourselves accountable to the communities we serve, ensuring that our practices align with our mission.
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Sustainability and Stewardship: We advocate for practices that respect and preserve the environment, promoting sustainability as a core element of all projects and initiatives.
Our ApproachÂ
Naqsmist Storytellers Inc. utilizes the Cultivating Safe Spaces (CSS) framework developed by our founder to guide our projects and initiatives. Cultivating Safe Spaces (CSS) is an educational initiative that equips individuals and organizations to cultivate environments that are inclusive, respectful, and safe. Through a comprehensive framework, CSS offers training, workshops, and resources aimed at promoting emotional safety, inclusivity, and empowerment. This framework is rooted in Indigenous principles of community, respect, and interconnectedness. It is applied through:
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Educational Programs: Offering online courses and workshops that teach the principles of CSS and provide tools for implementing these practices in various settings.
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Community Engagement: Facilitating discussions and engagements that promote understanding and respect for Indigenous rights and cultures.
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Consultancy and Advisory Services: Providing expert advice and strategies for organizations wishing to integrate CSS into their operations and cultures.
Global Engagement
Naqsmist’s global engagement initiatives focus on fostering cross-cultural understanding and systemic change through knowledge exchange. By merging Indigenous wisdom with modern practices, Naqsmist collaborates with various communities and governments to promote equity, respect, and empowerment. Our work is a testament to the belief that, together, people can create meaningful impact across borders, encouraging unity and shared learning to address global challenges.
In 2024, Elaine Alec, CEO of Naqsmist Storytellers Inc., brought her Indigenous Planning and Cultivating Safe Spaces framework to Pakistan, sharing approaches to community-driven planning, healing, and inclusivity. The visit, facilitated by the High Commission of Canada, included workshops, public talks, and high-level discussions aimed at improving social and economic outcomes for minority communities. This initiative highlights the global relevance of Indigenous wisdom in fostering safe, inclusive environments across diverse cultural contexts. For more information, visit Naqsmist Pakistan Press Release.
