Sharon Kabanak has inherited traditional wisdom from her family and community elders. She is determined to preserve and pass on this knowledge to future generations. As a member of the Kluane First Nation, she conducts workshops to educate children, families, and individuals from diverse backgrounds on traditional arts and practices.
Recently, at the Thechàl Dhâl’ Visitor Centre near Haines Junction, Yukon, Kabanak led a workshop teaching participants how to create necklaces and medicine bags using beads and bone-shaped pieces, inspired by traditional designs. Beyond crafting, Kabanak emphasizes the importance of connecting with the land through hands-on activities.
Having been mentored by elders and educators in Alaska, Kabanak stresses the significance of respecting animals and natural resources in Indigenous teachings. She believes in the value of experiential learning for younger generations, encouraging them to embrace traditions and cultural heritage.
In addition to intergenerational knowledge transfer, Kabanak views sharing traditional customs as a way to foster cross-cultural connections. Participants in her workshops come from diverse backgrounds, including researchers and students from Quebec, France, and the United States. Through these interactions, individuals like Marilou Roy, a wildlife researcher from Quebec, have gained a deeper appreciation for the interconnectedness of wildlife, plants, and people.
Kabanak’s ultimate goal is to ensure that the wisdom she imparts continues to circulate within communities and beyond. She emphasizes the enduring importance of sharing knowledge with others and staying connected to the land and heritage.