Elder Valdie Seymour

Valdie had over 40 years of experience in cross-cultural development and implementation  of community resource training programs. This experience included, counselling, therapy, individual and family personal development, as well as human resources networking. Valdie developed processes to train community citizens to identify their own community issues and facilitate their own community solutions.

Valdie was instrumental in establishing a pattern in community programs in which community citizens examine their lives, took responsibility for their actions, and actively contributed to community health and relationships. He was part of the initial effort at establishing a community initiated ally-supported healing movement in Hollow Water First Nation. Hollow Water’s healing movement began to emerge with the commitment of community citizens working with ally institutions. Eventually, Hollow Water’s healing movement resulted in the creation, development, and continuation of the Community Holistic Circle Healing (CHCH) organization – an organization that developed Manitoba’s Restorative Justice and Sentencing Circle in 1989.

In 2022, Elder Valdie became the Faculty of Architecture's inaugural Elder-in-Residence, bringing with him invaluable Indigenous wisdom and teachings. His presence was transformative, as he not only shared his deep knowledge but also introduced the Faculty to the meaningful practice of Seasonal Ceremonies. Elder Valdie's spirit, teachings, and approach to sharing will continue to guide us in our work and our personal lives. 

Chi miigwetch, Valdie!

Faculty and staff