Feb 19, 2025 Ottawa, ON – February 12, 2025 Bringing together community leaders, Indigenous agricultural innovators, advocates, and stakeholders from coast to coast, the event served as a powerful reminder that the future of Indigenous food systems is already being shaped by resilient, visionary, and community-led efforts. Empowering Indigenous Voices The name “wo inina,” is a Dakota word meaning to listen, learn, and to act, which reflects the spirit of this event. From deeply personal community stories to broad policy discussions, every session centered on Indigenous voices and emphasized the importance of local knowledge, leadership, and traditional food practices in addressing food insecurity and creating long-term sustainability. Attendees participated in dynamic panel discussions, interactive presentations, and keynote addresses that reflected on the strides the NCIAF and its partners have made toward reclaiming food systems, restoring cultural food practices, and supporting Indigenous-led businesses and youth programming across the country. One attendee shared, "The individual and community stories of struggle and success—listening and allowing communities to guide the changes—were the most meaningful part of the day." A Platform for Learning, Listening, and Leading The importance of culturally significant food systems. Bridging traditional knowledge and modern agriculture. Supporting Indigenous food entrepreneurs and youth. Policy change rooted in reconciliation and self-determination. Participants echoed the need for continued investment and sustained commitment from governments, institutions, and industry to strengthen Indigenous food sovereignty and ensure equity within Canada's agriculture landscape. The event concluded with a networking reception—offering time to connect, share, and build lasting relationships across nations and sectors. Moving Forward With Purpose The NCIAF would like to extend a special thank you to all the speakers, Elders, Knowledge Keepers, community members, and partners who made wo inina 2025 a success. We carry your voices with us as we continue to grow together. During the event, the NCIAF held an interactive engagement session that led attendees through a world cafe exercise to gather valuable feedback on engaging Indigenous youth in agriculture and local food systems. As we committed to at the end of the day, we are proud to share a summary. 
wo inina 2025: Listen, Learn, Act
On the unceded territory of the Algonquin Anishinaabe Nation, the National Circle for Indigenous Agriculture & Food (NCIAF) proudly hosted wo inina 2025—a landmark one-day gathering dedicated to celebrating and advancing Indigenous food sovereignty across Canada.
on advancing Indigenous food sovereignty and sustainable development.
wo inina 2025 also served as a gathering space for reflection and future-building. Key themes included:
In a time of negative news and uncertainty, the tone and messaging at this event was refreshing. It was so nice to see people working together, liking each other, and succeeding,
stated another wo inina attendee. 
As an Indigenous-led organization, the NCIAF is proud to provide platforms like wo inina 2025 that amplify Indigenous leadership and bring people together to build a shared understanding and purpose. The stories shared, connections made, and knowledge exchanged will continue to shape our collective journey toward a sovereign, sustainable, and self-determined Indigenous food future.
