Monika Couperus is a social worker/ mental health counsellor in Southern Ontario. Monika's passion for holistic healing inspires people to address their physical, spiritual, mental, and social health. Monika is also certified as an expressive arts therapist where she can guide communities and individuals through holistic healing using visual art, music, poetry, dance, storytelling, etc. A life-long member of the CRC, Monika gained experience in truth and reconciliation work in University, internships, summer employments, the Youth Ambassador of Reconciliation program, and the Heart's Exchange program 2020/2021. She is excited to commit to reconciliation work long-term. 

Layne is Director of Faith Formation at Calgary Christian School and member at Lantern Community CRC.  Over the past few years Jesus has invited Layne to learn more about the history of this land through the free U of A course "Indigenous Canada," the CRC's "Hearts Exchanged," and his Indigenous friends who gather at the Lantern for drum circle, friendship markets, and AA meetings. Through the Lantern, Layne has been honored to support walks that raise awareness for addictions and this fall (2024) he will support a walk for the survivors and children who died in residential schools. 

Gary is a second-generation Canadian settler whose parents came from Friesland, which is in the north/west region of the Netherlands. He lives in Orono, Ontario and enjoys reading, painting, hiking wooded trails and paddling secluded rivers. He had given little thought to the original inhabitants of Canada until about 20 years ago when he had the pleasure of discussing cultural issues with an Indigenous co-worker. This co-worker helped him realize that they had much more in common than they had differences. Those discussions sparked his interest in Indigenous issues and ultimately led him to complete a BA in Indigenous Studies at Trent University. Gary looks forward to working with the Canadian Indigenous Ministry Committee to improve relationships with our Indigenous neighbors.

I originated from Manitoba, Canada. I am a Cree- Metis and I was born with my disabilities since birth with varies type due to the water/land contamination of mercury due to a mining nearby in Northern MB. God has gifted me with four children as they're now all adults and blessed to be a Grandmother of one so far. I'm currently employed with Union Gospel Mission for over 8 years as a Recovery Care Worker within the Women and Families facility. I've always had an interest in being more involved within the Disabilities' movement on many levels. I'm a huge advocate for accessibilities and to ensure church are inclusive friendly and welcoming to all bodies.

Dr. Kenny Wallace, Aboha ‘a Chihowa, is an African American Choctaw Pawnee from the United States living in Canada. He holds a doctorate in Worship Studies from the Robert E. Webber Institute for Worship Studies with a focus on Christian contextualization of Indigenous worship. He teaches nationally and internationally about multi-ethnic worship with his organization Kingdom Reflections Multi-Ethnic Worship Ministries. He is a hoop dancer in the Way of Jesus both at powwows and for Blanket Exercises hosted by Kairos Canada, avid bead worker, and musician. He is also a certified ethnoarts specialist with the Global Ethnodoxology Network. In his spare time he runs a jewelry and essential oil business focused on wholistic wellness: physical, spiritual, and emotional. He is married to Achlaï Ernest, an esteemed leader in her own rite, and together they have a six-year-old growing worship leader named Hadassa.   

Marlene was born In Burns Lake BC to an Indigenous father and a white mother. Her father joined the military when she was 18 months old and she was raised in a variety of towns and Air Bases throughout Canada and Germany. She currently resides with her husband  in Frankford ON. She is a retired nurse who currently works as a Church Administrator and Bookkeeper.  She has 4 grown children and 9 grandchildren and is passionate about bringing education and reconciliation to all. 

Katie is a recent graduate from Trent University with a BAH in Indigenous Studies, igniting her passion for Indigenous missions and justice work. Born and raised in Drayton, ON, Katie is of Dutch descent and was brought up in a household enriched by deep conversation and an appreciation for diverse perspectives and viewpoints. Katie’s upbringing and learning journey thus far has led her to a profound appreciation for Indigenous cultures and issues. With a compassionate heart and a steadfast commitment to justice, she is dedicated to advancing Indigenous ministry and reconciliation efforts, both within this committee and in her personal life. Beyond her professional pursuits, Katie enjoys crocheting, reading and spending time with her family.