Growing as Indigenous Facilitators

At Niibin Advisory Services, facilitation is at the heart of what we do. As Indigenous facilitators and consultants, our team approaches community engagement, strategic planning, and advisory circles with care, respect and grounding. Whether we’re working with urban Indigenous organizations, youth or leadership teams, we enjoy bringing people together to reflect, share, and co-create pathways forward.

We know that good facilitation is a living practice and we’re always looking for ways to deepen our skills, reflect on our approach, and stretch in new ways.

This month, we had the opportunity to do just that.

Jade and Shylo recently completed a three-day training in the Art of Hosting: Meaningful Dialogue and Participatory Leadership. The practices we explored resonated deeply with how we want to show up as Indigenous facilitators: grounded, responsive, and open to the wisdom of the group.

We left the training feeling inspired and excited to integrate new techniques into our work. Some of the reflections and reminders that stood out for us:

Strong facilitation is never done alone. We were reminded of the strength in co-creating space with others, and the quiet power of a team that moves with purpose.
How we gather matters. From the physical space to the energy and tone, thoughtful design helps create environments where people feel safe to share and engage.
Preparation is a form of care. Thoughtful planning creates the conditions for meaningful dialogue and stronger outcomes.
Trust is foundational. We’re leaning into methods that support shared leadership, collective wisdom, and space for voices to emerge organically.

We’re grateful for the chance to learn and grow, and we’re excited to bring these renewed perspectives into our work with clients and communities. Miigwetch to the amazing facilitators we learned from: Caitlin Frost, Chris Corrigan, Kelly Foxcroft-Poirier and Kris Archie.

We’re ready to hold space in new ways – and we can’t wait to see what we’ll co-create with you next.