Keynote Address: Connecting with a Light Heart
Monday, May 12, Monique Gray Smith
An inspirational keynote focusing on hope, possibilities and lighting a way forward. Monique will share her personal journey and how it was a stranger who said to her, “I look forward to reading your book one day,” that changed her life. Throughout our time together, Monique will offer readings from her various books, including her most recent release, Braiding Sweetgrass for Young Adults. She will share what it means to connect with a light heart, reminding us of the importance of bringing forth the gifts we’ve been blessed with and using them in a good way. Together, we will explore the integral role love and joy have in navigating these interesting times.
Monique Gray Smith is an award-winning, best-selling author. Her books cover a broad spectrum of ages, topics and emotions. Woven into all of Monique’s writing, speaking engagements and online courses is the teaching that Love is Medicine. In March 2024, she released her 13th book, Dreaming Alongside. Monique also recently adapted Robin Wall Kimmerer's, New York Times Bestselling book, Braiding Sweetgrass for a younger audience, Braiding Sweetgrass for Young Adults. Monique’s novel, Tilly and the Crazy Eights was longlisted for Canada Reads 2021.Monique is trained as a Psychiatric Nurse and has worked in various capacities in community and as a consultant since 1990. Her focus has been weaving history, resilience and trauma informed training for educators, social workers, librarians and early childhood teams. She is an appointed member of the Board of Directors of Royal Roads University and in 2019, Monique received the City of Victoria Leadership Award for Reconciliation. Monique is Cree and Scottish and has been sober and involved in her healing journey for over 34 years. She is well known for her storytelling, spirit of generosity and focus on resilience.