ELDER DR. DAVE COURCHENE
Anishinabe | Sagkeeng First Nation

Elder Dave Courchene is Nii Gaani Aki Inini (Leading Earth Man), from the Anishinabe Nation. He is Eagle Clan from Sagkeeng First Nation. He is a respected Elder and Knowledge Keeper of the Anishinabe Nation and the visionary behind the Turtle Lodge International Centre for Indigenous Education and Wellness. The Turtle Lodge is a sacred lodge of the Anishinabe Peoples, situated in Sagkeeng First Nation.

 Nii Gaani Aki Ineeni’s leadership and stewardship have had global influence - from prestigious honours, to lighting the sacred fire at the UN Earth Summit in 1992, to delivering the keynote and conducting the opening ceremonies at the 2010 G8 Summit on World Religions, to sharing the stage with spiritual leaders like the Dalai Lama. 

 Elder Dave Courchene has devoted his life to sharing the ancient knowledge of the Original People of Turtle Island, creating a healthy environment for current and future generations, and carrying messages of hope and peace around the world.

 Turtle Lodge - International Centre for Indigenous Wellness & Education

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