Our Team
Dr. Jason Bruce
Co-Founder & Director of Education
Dr. Jason Bruce is an educator, researcher, and former school administrator with deep roots in Indigenous education and youth wellness. He holds a Ph.D. in Indigenous Studies from Trent University, where his research focused on culturally responsive teacher evaluation in community schools. Jason has led mental health initiatives at Indspire and partnered with organizations like CAMH, MHCC, and We Matter to support Indigenous student well-being. He has also taught in Anishnawbe Health Toronto’s Community Health Worker program. At Mentee, Jason guides mental health strategy and project development grounded in research, community voice, and cultural integrity.
Shawna D’Antimo
Co-Founder & Director of Research
Shawna D’Antimo is a community-based researcher from Wiikwemkoong First Nation with expertise in Indigenous-led research, evaluation, and mentorship. At Indspire, she supports national research initiatives and mentors emerging Indigenous scholars through the Research Knowledge Nest. Her work centers on participatory methods that prioritize Indigenous voices and challenge deficit-based approaches. Shawna has led key projects, including Journeys to Success: Empowering Indigenous Visions Through Photovoice, which explored the role of culture in student success. At Mentee, she leads research and engagement strategy, ensuring all work is grounded in community priorities and strengths.
Fostering mental well-being in Indigenous communities requires a collective effort and the dedication of many. Our combined experiences and expertise empower us to create meaningful change and ensure every individual feels seen, heard, and valued.
Kweláxtelot (Karla Kay)
Language Vitalization Lead
Kweláxtelot (Karla Kay), M.Ed., is a dedicated educator and curriculum specialist focused on Indigenous language vitalization and culturally grounded education. She holds a Master of Indigenous Language Revitalization from the University of Victoria and teaches Halq’eméylem at the University of the Fraser Valley. A former Seabird Island Community School teacher, she integrates language, culture, and experiential learning to foster inclusive and empowering spaces. Her work includes curriculum development for the National Centre for Collaboration in Indigenous Education and the delivery of culturally rooted programming that uplifts student voice and identity.
Mikayla Wood
Cultural Arts Lead
Mikayla Wood is a committed Indigenous artist and educator currently studying in the Aboriginal Teacher Education Program (ATEP) at the University of Alberta. She specializes in jingle dresses, ribbon skirts, beadwork, and other traditional arts, creating work that celebrates and preserves Indigenous culture. Alongside her artistic practice, she has led youth cultural programming through the Warrior Golf Academy and represents golf on the University of Alberta Athletic Board. A multi-time medalist at the Alberta and North American Indigenous Games, Mikayla brings leadership, creativity, and community spirit to her role as Cultural Arts Lead—supporting schools and programs in weaving cultural expression into everyday learning.
Mentee
Join us in a journey of collaboration and cultural empowerment. Transform Indigenous education with tailored, evidence-based resources designed to foster resilience, cultural pride, and success.
Interactive Learning
Culturally Responsive
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