Angela Sterritt

In Angela’s rise to become a significant storyteller and educator, she reflects on what got her here. From a homeless teen to a high-profile journalist, she recognizes the teachers who encouraged her to become a journalist, challenged herself in her educational journey, and were a place of safety and comfort in times of need. As a mother, she speaks about the elevated importance of teachers during the global pandemic, in building community, safety, and peace. Angela shares how important the role of teachers is to better support and impart knowledge about Indigenous people, cultures, and communities.

Over the last few years, Canadians were called on to recognize a massive deficit when it comes to Black, Indigenous, and people of colour meaningfully participating in their institutions. Many companies and organizations have shifted to address the imbalance by hiring new diverse employees. Yet many leaders still struggle with how to change the culture in offices and spaces and ensure everyone feels safe. Through her experience as a university professor, an investigative journalist, and an Indigenous author, Angela illuminates how to create spaces that reflect and honour real diversity and show dedication, in particular, to include Indigenous voices.

From a homeless street kid to a scrappy radio journalist, to a high-profile TV personality, to an author, Angela shares her inspiring personal story of strength and resilience through change. By discovering her own internal gifts and finding purpose, she was able to move past any obstacle. And how being of service to others, even in the most difficult times can teach us about community, love, and never giving up on ourselves. Angela’s focus on raising Indigenous voices through her writing and reporting taught her the power of healing through storytelling.

As a survivor of violence, and as an Indigenous woman, Angela speaks about the crisis of MMIWGTS in this country and how to make space and create equality and safety for all.