The Film:

‘ᐊᐧᓂᐢᑲ (Waniska) - An Awakening of Indigenous Knowledge’

Please note:

This film page includes information about the film below. To view the film please scroll to the bottom of the page.

Synopsis:

In an extraordinary display of resilience, a group of spiritual Elders out on the land, teach students at the First Nations University of Canada the role of Indigenous knowledge systems in re-awakening their Nations. These Residential School Survivors shine a light on a future where Indigenous knowledge may be called upon to assist humanity. Filmed in the fields and forests of First Nations lands across Saskatchewan, Waniska was envisioned and directed by the Elder's Circle of the First Nations University of Canada with participation from students. (Waniska means 'to awaken' in Cree language)

4 Seasons of Reconciliation film series is comprised of short documentary films set in Canada on the heels of the final report from the Truth and Reconciliation Commission. Waniska is the first film in the series.

Directed by the Kehte-Ayak (Elder's) Circle at First Nations University of Canada

Produced by Andrée Cazabon

Cinematography & Editing by Adam Gualtieri

Running Time 24:36 minutes

Watch the trailer here:

Director Statement

“A film is a timeless story which can shine a bright light on a community’s spirit and journey. It draws the viewer in by moving them as a painting or a dance would. Once moved, action and change follows. A documentary film invites the viewer to walk in the moccasins of another and connects them to their humanity and to hope. With this project we make a film for the communities, film festivals, large audience venues, museums, galleries, and as tool for the education sector as well as the business and professional development training sector. Our aim is to spread reconciliation through documentary stories.

Watch film here:

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