Weji-sqalia'timk: Reclaiming the Indigenous Narratives of Atlantic Canada
Weji-sqalia’timk is a free storytelling program that supports Indigenous youth in developing their voice while learning from Elders and Knowledge Holders. Building on the success of the Bridge to Publishing pilot, the Weji-sqalia’timk storytelling program offers guided online learning, mentorship, and hands-on experience in writing, publishing, and digital storytelling. Open to Indigenous youth ages 15–30 living in Atlantic Canada, the program helps participants explore stories rooted in the land and Indigenous teachings while building the skills to carry those stories forward.
Weji-sqalia’timk – “where we sprouted or emerged from.”
As Elder and linguist Bernie Francis teaches, the Mi’kmaw teaching of weji-sqalia’timk expresses the understanding that Indigenous Peoples’ beginnings are inseparable from the land, and that the land itself carries our memory, knowledge and story.
Guided by feedback from the Bridge to Publishing pilot, our upcoming cohort focuses on preserving both Elder stories and stories connected to the land.
What You'll Learn
Through guided online modules, mentorship, and opportunities to learn from Elders and Knowledge Holders, you will explore how stories grow from land, culture, and community. As you move through each unit, you’ll build skills in writing, editing, digital media, and interviewing while learning how storytelling strengthens identity and carries responsibilities to the places we come from.
Program Structure
The program moves through three units that build on each other, helping you develop your voice as a storyteller while learning both the principles and the practice of storytelling.
Foundational Unit
In this unit, you’ll explore the core principles of Indigenous storytelling, including teachings from Elders, the history of Indigenous narratives in publishing, and best practices for working respectfully with community knowledge. These modules help you understand where stories come from and how to honour them.
Training Unit
Building on the foundational teachings, this unit introduces practical skills in publishing, editing, writing, and digital storytelling. You’ll complete a short Publishing Basics module and choose one learning stream to deepen your skills. Participants who successfully complete this unit receive Bridge to Publishing certification.
Practical Unit
In the practical unit, you’ll apply your skills through hands-on storytelling work. This may include interviewing Elders, creating a land-based story project, or developing a manuscript with guidance from mentors. The focus is on preserving stories in ways that honour community knowledge and reflect your own voice as a storyteller.
Weji'sqalia'timk Application Form
Thank you for your interest in the Weji-sqalia’timk storytelling program. If you have any questions about the program or application process, check out our Frequently Asked Questions below, or reach out to Robin Grant at rgrant@ulnooweg.ca.
Our Supporters
The Weji-sqalia’timk storytelling program is made possible through the generosity and guidance of many contributors.
We thank the Chamandy Foundation and the Ulnooweg Indigenous Communities Foundation for their support in helping us offer accessible storytelling opportunities for Indigenous youth. We also recognize HARP Publishing as our publishing partner, guiding the editorial process for youth and supporting the printing and distribution of their final work. We honour the Elders, Knowledge Holders, and storytellers whose teachings shape this program and help ensure that stories rooted in land, culture, and community are carried forward with care.
Frequently Asked Questions
If you have any other questions, don’t hesitate to reach out to Robin Grant at rgrant@ulnooweg.ca.
Who can apply?
This program is open to Indigenous youth aged 15–30 living in Atlantic Canada (Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, Newfoundland and Labrador, PEI). You must belong to an Indigenous community in Canada (i.e. First Nations, Metis, Inuit).
Can I apply if I completed the Bridge to Publishing program?
Yes! The online units (Foundational and Training units) are based on content developed for the Bridge to Publishing pilot program. However, you are welcome to register and join us for the Practical Unit, which will feature in-person workshops with Elders and Knowledge Holders.
If you have more questions about the content of the Practical Unit, reach out to Robin Grant at rgrant@ulnooweg.ca.
When will I hear back about my application?
We will be in touch with all applicants in early January. If you have not heard from us by then, please check your spam folder or reach out to our team member, Robin Grant, at rgrant@ulnooweg.ca.
Is there a cost to participate?
No. The program is free for all eligible participants.
Do I need storytelling experience?
No experience is required. The Weji-sqalia’timk program is designed to support both new and emerging storytellers. All you need is interest and a willingness to learn.
Will there be in-person gatherings?
Yes. We will occasionally host small in-person gatherings and workshops in Nova Scotia to support relationship-building, Elder engagement, and hands-on learning. Attendance is encouraged, though we understand that travel and availability may vary for each participant.
How much time does the online learning take?
The online modules require about 3–5 hours per week, depending on your pace and the activities you choose to explore.
Do I need consistent internet access?
Regular access to a phone, tablet, or computer with internet is helpful for completing the online modules. If you only have partial access, or anticipate needing support, we encourage you to tell us in your application so we can discuss options.
What support is available (tech, accessibility, cultural)?
We aim to make the program as accessible and comfortable as possible. If you need support related to technology access, disability accommodations, transportation for in-person gatherings, or cultural and learning needs, please share this in your application so our team can follow up.