Ga’walap̓a laxa̱n’s ḵa̱n’s sa̱nale’: Help Us to Be Whole Healing Camp + Film Trailer

Ga’walap̓a laxa̱n’s ḵa̱n’s sa̱nale’ (Help Us to Be Whole) is a community-led, trauma-informed healing initiative created with and for Kwakwaka’wakw and First Nations frontline wellness workers in Hada (Bond Sound). In partnership with Nawalakw, elders, and community leaders, we brought together frontline workers who carry the weight of grief, crisis response, and care to rest, reconnect, and heal through land-based ceremony, Kwak̓wala language, somatic practices, and circle dialogue.

Alongside the camp, we created a short film that follows this healing journey and uplifts the voices of knowledge keepers such as Chief Dr. Robert Joseph, Elder Maggie Sedgemore, K’odi Nelson, Stephanie Bernard. The film trailer offers a glimpse into the courage, tenderness, and strength of our helpers.

Building on this work, we are preparing our next Women’s Trauma Healing Camp in Hada, scheduled for June 23–26, 2026, to further deepen this circle of care.

Film, Language, Research, YogaJessica BarudinJanuary 14, 2026Bond Soundcommunity wellness, community partnerships, Kwakwaka'wakw, land based healing

Now Live: Public Release of my Film "Braiding Knowledge through Breath, Language, and Movement"

It’s finally here. I’m so honoured to share the PUBLIC LAUNCH of my short documentary, Braiding Knowledge through Breath, Language, and Movement. This newly edited version marks a huge milestone in my journey—not only as a Kwakwaka’wakw scholar and community wellness practitioner, but also as a first-time filmmaker. After its original release two years ago and many powerful screenings in community settings, academic conferences, and film festivals, I’m proud to offer this film to a wider audience.

Film, Media, Research, YogaJessica BarudinMay 19, 2025Braiding Knowledge Film, Public LaunchComment