CanNRT Research Forum | They Are Sacred: First Nations Journeys in Autism Care and Advocacy
Explore the living and lived experiences, cultural perspectives, and community-driven initiatives shaping autism care and advocacy in First Nations communities.听
Centering the voices of families, Elders, Autistic individuals, and community leaders, the discussion will highlight how Indigenous knowledge systems, ceremony, and relational approaches inform supports that are both culturally grounded and responsive to the diverse needs of Autistic children and youth. Panelists will share stories of resilience, innovation, and advocacy, illustrating how First Nations are reclaiming and revitalizing their own ways of supporting neurodivergent members.听
The session will also examine how partnerships between communities, service providers, and researchers can be guided by respect, reciprocity, and self-determination, ensuring that autism supports are not only accessible but also affirming of identity, culture, and community connection.
Through these journeys, participants will gain insight into how culturally led, strengths-based approaches can transform both individual outcomes and broader systems of care.听
Speakers听
Grant Bruno听(He/Him), PhD, is n锚hiyaw (Plains Cree) and a registered member of Samson Cree Nation. He is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Pediatrics at the University of Alberta and Academic Lead for Indigenous Child Health at the Women and Children鈥檚 Health Research Institute. His work focuses on developing culturally responsive healthcare models that support Indigenous children and youth, with an emphasis on neurodiversity and child and youth health. Dr. Bruno also leads the Ispimihk Aw芒sisak (Sky Children Program) and the Indigenous Caregiving Collective, and serves as Scientific Advisor, Indigenous Initiatives for the Kids Brain Health Network.
Mariam Ahmad听(She/Her) is a Pakistani settler from Treaty 8, currently living in amiskwaciw芒skahikan (Edmonton) on Treaty 6 territory. She is a Research Coordinator and holds a Master of Public Health in Indigenous Peoples Health from the University of Victoria. Her research interests include youth health, health equity, and health policy, with a focus on supporting Indigenous-led health research. Mariam brings experience in community-based research and is committed to advancing culturally meaningful approaches that improve health outcomes for Indigenous children, youth, families, and communities.
Tierney Littlechild听(She/Her)听is from Maskwacis, Alberta, and serves as the Community Research Coordinator for the Ispimihk Aw芒sisak Indigenous Child & Youth Health Program at the University of Alberta鈥檚 Women and Children鈥檚 Health Research Institute. She is dedicated to supporting her community and is particularly passionate about building understanding with and advocacy for neurodivergent children and youth. Tierney values the way her people view neurodivergence as a strength and is committed to promoting awareness and empowering youth through this perspective.
About CanNRT Research Forums
The听(CanNRT) Platform鈥檚听Research Forums showcase the diverse work of CanNRT members. The Distinguished Speakers Series features presentations from esteemed international experts. Co-led by CanNRT trainees and the CanNRT team, these workshops promote collaboration and knowledge exchange on topics related to neurodevelopment and associated conditions.
