Rooted in Gwekwaadziwin: Season 3, Episode 8 - Waukomaun Pawis

What shapes the person we become?

In this episode of Rooted in Gwekwaadziwin, we sit down with Waukomaun Pawis, an Anishinaabe storyteller, educator, and media professional from Wasauksing First Nation whose career has been guided by one simple belief: the right role model at the right time can change a life.

Wauk reflects on growing up in a community experiencing a cultural revitalization, the teachers, Elders, and family members who helped shape his path, and how those experiences led him from the film and television industry to Connected North, where he now helps connect students in remote Indigenous communities with inspiring role models, Knowledge Keepers, artists, scientists, and educators from across the country.

Along the way, we explore the power of storytelling, the importance of choosing gratitude over adversity, what it means to discover your gifts, and why investing in young people creates lasting change for generations to come.

Whether you're an educator, parent, community leader, or someone searching for purpose in your own journey, this conversation is a reminder that kindness, connection, and believing in others can have an impact far beyond what we may ever see.

In this episode, we discuss:

• Growing up in Wasauksing First Nation during a time of cultural revitalization
• Lessons learned from family, teachers, and community role models
• A career journey from film and television to education
• Using technology to connect youth in remote Indigenous communities
• The importance of storytelling in healing and identity
• Finding your gifts and living with gratitude
• Why positive role models matter