Alumni Association Annual General Meeting | Keynote presentation: Understanding Indigenous Communities, with Cynthia Bell
September 28 @ 6:30 pm - 8:00 pm
Please register for the upcoming Annual General Meeting of the Factor-Inwentash Faculty of Social Work Alumni Association (FIFSWAA), taking place on Monday, September 28, 2026, from 6:30 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. The meeting will be offered in an online format (Zoom).
The event will feature a keynote presentation by Cynthia Bell, Anishinaabe Knowledge Educator from Wiikwemkoong Unceded Territory with 32+ years of experience serving Indigenous youth, families, and communities titled “Understanding Indigenous Communities”.
Please register here: Webinar Registration – Zoom
Questions? Please contact: Office of Advancement, Factor-Inwentash Faculty of Social Work | University of Toronto, fund.fifsw@utoronto.ca or alumni.fifsw@utoronto.ca
About the keynote
This presentation will provide participants with an introduction to the realities, challenges, strengths, and successes of Indigenous peoples and communities. The presentation addresses common stereotypes and misconceptions while helping participants develop a greater understanding of Indigenous history, culture, contemporary realities, and community strengths. An important part of the session is creating a safe and respectful space for honest dialogue. Participants will be encouraged to ask difficult or uncomfortable questions they may otherwise hesitate to ask out of fear of saying the wrong thing or being perceived as discriminatory.
The goal is not to judge, but to learn. Through open conversation, participants can challenge assumptions, increase cultural awareness, and leave with a stronger understanding of Indigenous peoples and communities.
About Cynthia Bell
Cynthia is the founder and Executive Director of ENAGB Indigenous Youth Agency and owner of Giiwednangoonhs Productions. She brings extensive experience in leadership, governance, community development, youth services, mental health and addictions, culture, and language. Her work is grounded in strengthening Indigenous identity, creating opportunities for youth, and building stronger relationships between Indigenous and non-Indigenous communities. Cynthia brings both professional and lived experience to her work and is committed to creating respectful spaces for learning, understanding, dialogue, and positive change.