A Dene’s Quest for Transformation in 2023

A Dene’s Quest for Transformation in 2023

What does it mean to live a life rooted in cultural heritage while maintaining sobriety for over three decades? In this episode of 'Empathetic Witness', host Angelina Pratt sits down with Norman Yakeleya, a former Indigenous politician and consultant, to explore this very question. Yakeleya, who has been sober for 37 years, shares his personal journey and the profound impact sobriety has had on his life and community.

He talks about the essence of being Dene, which goes beyond mere identification; it's about living with kindness, compassion, and empathy. Norman's reflections on Dene culture are deeply intertwined with his experiences, offering listeners a unique perspective on addiction and recovery. He discusses the importance of respecting women in the community, recognizing their strength and contributions. Yakeleya also touches on the skills learned from living off the land and how they can be applied in urban settings.

His wisdom extends to addressing the impacts of residential schools and the importance of guidance from elders. As a board member of Seventh Generation Indigenous Training, Norman provides insights into treatment centers on the land and connecting people with economic initiatives. This episode is a heartfelt conversation that blends personal anecdotes with broader cultural insights, making it a must-listen for anyone interested in understanding addiction through an Indigenous lens.