Read the June 2025 issue of mithwâyâwin – NCN Family & Community Wellness Centre’s bi-monthly health and wellness news update.
Featured Story
Felix Walker Honoured with the Order of Manitoba and Recognized by Assembly of Manitoba Chiefs
Felix C. Walker, a respected leader from Nisichawayasihk Cree Nation, has been named one of the 12 recipients of the 2025 Order of Manitoba, the province’s highest honour. His work, grounded in traditional Cree values and driven by a commitment to community wellness, has been recognized as a model for Indigenous-led healing and support.
Walker will be formally invested during a ceremony at the Manitoba Legislative Building on July 17. The Order of Manitoba, established in 1999, acknowledges individuals who demonstrate excellence and achievement, enriching the social, cultural, or economic well-being of the province.
In addition to receiving this provincial distinction, Walker is being honoured by the Assembly of Manitoba Chiefs (AMC), which acknowledged his decades of dedication to children, families, and the revitalization of traditional systems of care. “Felix is not only a leader, he is a connector,” said Grand Chief Cathy Merrick. “He brings together youth, Elders, and families in ways that honour our teachings and strengthen our Nations.”
Walker’s leadership journey began early—he was elected band councillor at age 25. Since then, he has championed culturally rooted programs that reduce trauma for children in care, launched Indigenous-led group homes for youth, and worked alongside Elders to guide the Rediscovery of Families program. This land-based healing initiative reunites families through ceremonies, traditional knowledge, and time on the land, fostering reconnection and resilience.
Colleagues and community members describe Walker as a bridge between generations—someone who listens deeply and leads with humility. His work has helped reimagine systems of care in ways that restore dignity and empower Indigenous communities to lead their own healing.
The other 2025 Order of Manitoba recipients include The Hon. Maria E. Chaput, Rebecca Gibson, Dr. Gordon Giesbrecht, Dr. Digvir S. Jayas, Glen Kruck, Trudy L. Lavallee, Kenneth Paupanekis, Kristie Pearson, Walter John Schroeder, Charlie Spiring, and Marion F. Willis.
For Walker, the honour is not his alone. “This is for our people,” he said. “For the youth who are finding their way back home, and for the Elders who never stopped believing we could.”
Read the June 2025 issue of mithwâyâwin for the full story.
IN THIS ISSUE:
- PERSONAL JOURNEY: Empowering Khalid Linklater Through Jordan’s Principle
- FAMILY SUPPORT: Early Childhood Educator Appreciation Celebrations
- COMMUNITY HEALTH: Beginning a New Chapter at the NCN FCWC
- Elders Mothers Day Events
- NCN Family & Community Wellness Centre
- Nisichawayasihk Culture Camp 2025
- Memorial Round Dance 2025
- FCWC Employees Become Graduates
- Regalia Making hosted by Jordan’s Principle
- Culture Camp for NCN Winnipeggers
- The Effects of Wildfire Smoke
- Nihitho Raised Youth
