About Us

Learn about who we are, where we work, and the creativity we bring to our community. Where our space becomes your place.

Vision

We are storytellers and bridge builders, through provocative and courageous creation work.

Mission

De-ba-jeh-mu-jig (“Storytellers” in Cree and Ojibway) is a professional, community-based, non-profit organization dedicated to sharing and educating about the Anishinaabek language, culture and heritage through original creative expression with Native and Non-Native people. This commitment takes many forms at Debajehmujig (Debaj) including community outreach and education, the creation of new works, professional training, production, exhibition and annual pillar events. Connecting through ancestral knowledge, traditional stories and storytelling, traditional teachings, ceremony and protocol builds bridges of understanding, acceptance and connection across cultures and generations. We create original work based on an Anishinaabe worldview and build bridges between cultures, generations, and territories. We support the development of Aboriginal artists in remote rural areas as well as cities.

Guiding Principles

In fulfilling our mandate, we are collectively committed to the following principles:

  • Creativity coupled with humour are the essence of Debajehmujig Storytellers.
  • Technical expertise is evident in the delivery of professional works and events of Debajehmujig.
  • Resourcefulness and problem solving abilities are a hallmark of this very lean organization.
  • Cohesion is evident as team members pull together in collaborating on events.
  • Positive energy, outlook and attitude are part of the fabric of the staff and board.
  • Humility and honesty are part of the workplace culture and creative processes.
  • Resilience through tough times have helped the organization to grow through many challenges.
  • Ensuring freedom to and freedom from

Our Team

Bruce Naokwegijig

Associate Artistic Director

Dustin Trudeau

Faculty/Wardrobe

Quinten Kaboni

Faculty/Image Designer

Michelle Roy

Finance

Richard Ashley Manitowabi

General Manager

David (Sunny) Osawabine

Production Manager/Cultural Knowledge

Daniel Recollet Mejaki

Faculty

Ethan Mejaki

Land Based Educator

Charity Shigwadja

Faculty

Sapper Wemigwans

Faculty

Board of Directors

  • Richard Lathwell — Chair
  • Bonita George — Vice-Chair
  • Natalie Neganegijig — Treasurer
  • Cheryl Peltier — Secretary
  • Margaret May Cywink — Board Member
  • Gertrude Manitowabi — Board Member
  • June Manitowabi — Board Member
  • Maureen Peltier — Board Member
  • Karen Shawanda — Board Member

Where to Find Us

Debajehmujig Head Office
2181 Wikwemikong way
Wikwemikong, ON
P0P 2J0

705-859-1012