Indigenous Ways of Knowing (IWK) are integral to Indigenous communities' physical, mental, intellectual, emotional, spiritual, cultural, and ecological health. These ways of knowing are conveyed through storytelling, experiential learning, cultural practices, and land-based activities. Every Indigenous community and environment is unique, with distinct needs, interests, and relationships. Given this complexity, it is vital to consider the local territory, knowledge, and protocols to honour and acknowledge the diversity among Indigenous peoples while recognizing commonalities and intersections between them.

Over the past year, we have strengthened academic productivity, leveraged funding opportunities, and fostered community-led research by building upon existing relations and networks. Our efforts have resulted in increased community engagement, development and nurturing of partnerships, expansion of socially engaged practices, and support for collaborative research activities among members.