Fleming College

Peterborough ON – (January 10, 2019) – Fleming College is pleased to announce the opening keynote speaker for the 2019 Ontario Association of Child and Youth Care (OACYC) Provincial Conference, Weaving Perspectives, Liz Stone. Due to the College’s convocation dates, the conference dates have changed to June 5 – 7, 2019. We apologize for any inconvenience the change may have caused. The conference will take place at Sutherland Campus in Peterborough, Ontario.

Keynote speaker, Liz Stone, Niimin Mshiikehn Kwe, Turtle Clan, Aamjiwnaang First Nation, is a Professor of Indigenous Studies at Fleming College. Liz is currently serving second appointment on the Indigenous Women’s Circle, Status of Women Canada and Director at Niijkiwendidaa Anishnaabekwewag Services Circle since 2008. Liz is an instructor at Enweying Professional Learning Institute at Trent University and Dnaagdawenmag Binnoojiiyag Child and Family Services. Liz was the previous Chair of the Indigenous Education Council at Fleming College, previous Associate Professor of Indigenous Governance at the University of Victoria, KAIROS Canada member, trainer, facilitator and member of the National Reconciliation committee: People of Faith Moving Forward. Liz has contributed to publications of the Aboriginal Healing Foundation and subsequent employee to the National Youth Solvent Abuse Program. In 2017, Liz was the National recipient of the inaugural Change Makers award, Canadian Mental Health Association. Liz organized the “From Indian Residential Schools to Truth and Reconciliation” Conference in Peterborough and attendance included Residential School students, Provincial and National Church representation as well as Commissioners of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada. Her most important accomplishment and responsibility has been as a mother to her son, Mkons Stone-Debassige.

Weaving Perspectives is expected to draw over 200 participants from across Ontario and surrounding provinces.

This unique gathering, located on the traditional territory of the Michi Saagiigi in Nogojiwanong, Peterborough, will pull away from the typical lecture format to provide participants with opportunities for experiential learning. This year’s conference, Weaving Perspectives: Challenging ourselves and others through storytelling and narratives, will focus on bringing together non-Indigenous practitioners and Indigenous Knowledge Holders in meaningful collaboration to offer Child and Youth Care professionals an opportunity to explore ways to enhance relational care practice, methods and models. Liz Stone, along with panel presentations and interactive workshops will encourage attendees to continue to work toward excellence, and provide an opportunity for individuals and organizations to showcase innovative research, activities and programs through exhibits and vendor opportunities.    

The conference will feature speakers who are not only real-life champions in Child and Youth Care Practice but who also inspire and advocate effectively. All sessions will be geared towards Child and Youth Care competencies. Presentations will provide insight on the strategies and approaches that promote relational care, strength-based approaches and inclusive programs that can be used in a variety of settings.

Sponsorship opportunities are available and demonstrate a commitment to the development of a profession serving the young persons and families within our province. For event and sponsorship information, visit http://www.oacyc.org/2019-oacyc-provincial-conference or email office@oacyc.org.

Fleming College is an accessible campus and the OACYC is committed to giving persons with disabilities the same opportunities, and will make every effort to provide accommodations. The Fleming Child and Youth Care program standards exceed Ministry of Ontario requirements, providing an extensive and high level of training in preparation for employment. For more information about the Child and Youth Care Program at Fleming College, visit: www.facebook.com/FlemingCYC or https://flemingcollege.ca/programs/child-and-youth-care.

 About Fleming College
Located in the heart of Central Ontario, Fleming College has campus locations in Peterborough, Lindsay, Cobourg and Haliburton. Named for famous Canadian inventor and engineer Sir Sandford Fleming, the college features more than 100 full-time programs in Arts and Heritage, Business, Environmental and Natural Resource Sciences, General Arts and Sciences, Health and Wellness, Justice and Community Development, Skilled Trades and Technology, and Continuing Education. Fleming College has more than 5,900 full-time and 10,000 part-time students, and 71,000 alumni.

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For more information, please contact:
Sara O’Halloran

Communications Officer

sara.ohalloran@flemingcollege.ca

705.749.5530 x 1366