Cassie Ayoungman (she/her), is a proud Niitsitapi (Blackfoot) climber from Siksika Nation, Alberta. Cassie’s journey began in her mid-twenties when she embarked on a trailblazing path that not only led her to the outdoors, but also made her aware of the lack of diversity in this space.
This realization ignited a passion within her. She founded Soul of Miistaki, a non-profit that shares her passion for exploring beautiful and sacred lands with her community. In doing so, she continues to inspire and empower others to discover the transformative power of nature and the boundless potential that lies within each of us.
For Cassie, climbing has the role of teacher and healer. It has shown her that she is more than capable of conquering her fears and overcoming life’s cruxes. The challenges of climbing have imparted invaluable life lessons, teaching her to find strength within, to breathe through difficulties, and to embrace discomfort as a catalyst for personal growth.
Embark on a thought-provoking panel discussion centered on community building, personal experiences, and the profound impact that outdoor recreation has on Indigenous identities. Explore how our panelists draw inspiration from their journeys, nurturing connections to their cultures. Join us in contemplating the path forward, exploring reconciliation through their collective experiences and insights. Moderated by Michele Lobo.
