ONWA’s 7th Annual She Is Wise Conference: Turning Hope into Action

Ottawa, ON | February 9–11, 2026 – The Ontario Native Women’s Association (ONWA) is convening Indigenous women and allies from across Ontario this week in Ottawa for the 7th Annual She Is Wise Conference, a three-day gathering grounded in spirit, community, and healing. Against the backdrop of unsettling and unpredictable challenges at home and around the world, She Is Wise is more than a conference it is a call to action ignited by hope.

“This is about aligning our purpose with strength and community,” said Cora McGuire-Cyrette, ONWA Chief Executive Officer. “When Indigenous women come together on our own terms and refuse to be silenced, we create the conditions for healing and empowerment. Now more than ever, Indigenous women’s courageous leadership, rooted in our teachings, is needed to create systemic change.”

Three Days, Three Generations

The conference is structured around the teachings of Grandmothers, Mothers & Aunties, and Daughters, reflecting the intergenerational roles Indigenous women carry in nurturing strong families and thriving communities. Speakers include: Maria Linklater, Reepa Evic-Carleton, Renee Thomas-Hill, Tina Armstrong, Stephanie Mikki Adams, Dr. Kathy Absolon, and Dr. Patricia McGuire among others.

At a time when Indigenous women, families, and communities are facing social, political, and economic pressures in an increasingly chaotic world, ONWA’s She Is Wise Conference creates a space for hope and inspiration guided by Indigenous women’s leadership.

Conference Dates: February 9–11, 2026

Location: Westin Ottawa Hotel (11 Colonel By Dr, Ottawa, ON K1N 9J1)

Media are invited to join for:

• Tuesday, February 11:

  • From 9:30AM-12PM – Mothers & Aunties keynote teachings from Dr. Kathy Absolon and Dr. Patricia McGuire

• Wednesday, February 12:

  • From 9:15AM-10:30AM – Youth Making Change Panel with five incredible Indigenous women youth leaders

  • From 1-3:30PM – For teachings honouring the land and the water and a Live Fashion Show with Wabanoonkwe Irick

For more information and media inquiries, contact:

Andre Morriseau, Communications Manager

Ontario Native Women’s Association (ONWA)

Email: amorriseau@onwa.ca

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About the Ontario Native Women’s Association (ONWA)

ONWA is a not-for-profit organization that empowers and supports all Indigenous women and their families in the province of Ontario through research, advocacy, policy development, and programs that focus on local, regional, and provincial activities.

Established in 1971, ONWA delivers culturally enriched programs and services to Indigenous women and their families regardless of their status or locality. We are committed to providing services that strengthen communities and guarantee the preservation of Indigenous culture, identity, art, language, and heritage.

Ending violence against Indigenous women and their families and ensuring equal access to justice, education, health services, environmental stewardship, and economic development sit at the cornerstone of the organization. ONWA insists on social and cultural well-being for all Indigenous women and their families, so that all women, regardless of tribal heritage, may live their best life.