The Power of Truth
Above - A video short capturing the power of an elders story and how it can inspire and empower individuals to seek truth, understanding and healing.
A spot-light feature on Mr. Jim Bob, an inspiration behind the Naut’sa mawt Initiative.
During a recent Ambassador Orientation Program, Honorary Chair Mr. Jim Bob provided a powerful address to the group of 15 participants. After blessing the giant floor map he shared a number of stories describing how his community grew and developed the land around Nanoose Bay on Vancouver Island. Mr. Bob, who is also a residential school survivor, was moved by the efforts of the team remarking “Today, I would call an historical day for everyone. For me, my family and all of your families. The positive things that can happen, my children would be happy to hear this.”
His passionate words inspired the participants during the event, and Jim continues to remain committed to the initiative by travelling with the map to speak with schools and with teachers during their professional development days. He also presents to a number of public interest groups and government leaders sharing not only the stories of his peoples, but the messages embedded within the materials developed by Canadian Geographic and the Society’s mission.
Jim focuses on reconciliation strategies that incorporate cultural learning, and this has been a lifelong passion of his. His words and alliance with the initiative led to the naming of this RCGS endorsed program – Naut’sa mawt, which means working together with one mind and one heart. His continued efforts have driven this initiative forward and he shares its vision of one day seeing an IPAC Giant Floor Map kit in every school district in Canada.
Jim has, throughout his life, shared Indigenous knowledge and continues to facilitate learning opportunities to Canadians across the country. He has, in his own unique way, brought cultures together through education, exploration and discovery. After witnessing the uncompromising commitment, professionalism and compassion of this remarkable individual, Ambassadors are empowered to carry-on his legacy.