On May 7, 2025, the NCCIH hosted a 20-year anniversary celebration recognizing two decades of research, collaboration, and knowledge translation to support Indigenous health in Canada. The event, which took place at the University of Northern British Columbia in Prince George, BC, brought together current and past leaders, committee members, NCC staff and community partners, and organization representatives who have supported and continue to share in the NCCIH’s vision of optimal health and well-being for First Nations people, Inuit, and Métis people through health structures and healthcare systems that are culturally responsive to and informed by Indigenous Peoples and communities.
As part of this event, the NCCIH hosted a discussion panel, “Remaining visionary: Reflections on the future of the NCCIH,” facilitated by the NCCIH’s new Academic Lead, Dr. Terri Aldred. In this video, panelists Dr. Jaris Swidrovich (Saulteau from Yellow Quill First Nation, Assistant Professor, Pharmacy & Indigenous Lead, University of Toronto), Will Georgelin (Tsimshian student in UNBC’s undergraduate Biomedical Program), and Dr. Danièle Behn-Smith (member of the Red River Métis and Deputy Provincial Health Officer for Indigenous Health in British Columbia) share their vision for the NCCIH moving forward into the future.
To remain visionary is to be forever grateful. It is to applaud the numerous firekeepers who have kept vigils and the leaders who walked ahead. Let gratitude find expression in your actions and in your words." – former NCCIH Advisory Committee member Madeleine Dion Stout / Kētēskwew when an NCCIH rep asked her for her thoughts about the centre’s twentieth anniversary. The phrase “remaining visionary” became the theme of the May twentieth anniversary event.
Related links
20th anniversary video series