CANORA - “I am here for the Indigenous students to support them,”
Yullinda Ponicappo said she is truly excited about her new position as Indigenous Community Worker at Canora Composite School.
“I love being a part of the team and working with the students.”
Ponicappo was born in Swan River, Man. and is from the Sapotaweyak Cree Nation.
“I was raised in a variety of different areas of Manitoba and Saskatchewan: Zagime Anishinabek First Nation, Sask., Keeseekoowenin First Nation, Man., Grenfell and Whitewood, Sask.
“My main interests growing up were culture, including going to ceremonies and powwows, being with my family and playing on the rez in the trees.”
Prior to this year, her employment experience was mainly in retail, working at the Yorkton Walmart for 10 years, including as the dairy department manager.
Ponicappo credits her upbringing for cultivating her interest in the Indigenous community.
“I was raised in my culture thanks to my parents, being involved in culture is who I am,” she said. “I was introduced to this Indigenous Community Worker role at CCS by my peers. This is a brand new and exciting career for me.”
Ponicappo has lived in Canora for four-and-a-half years where she is raising her three children. “They are my world; Cordae Cree, 14; Ariyah Cree, 12 and Rising Ponicappo, 6.
“I love Canora. It is quiet and nice for me and my family. I enjoy my neighbours.”
In her spare time, Ponicappo likes to devote her time to two of her favourite pursuits, family and culture.
“I bead, I love hanging out with my family, traveling to powwows and ceremonies. In summertime I live for powwows. I live for my children and my culture. I am a proud Ojibwe Cree woman.”
She said she is looking forward to an exciting year at CCS.
“Making everyone feel welcome and give them a sense of belonging.”
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