Tansi, my name is Lindsay Yasinski, and I am Nêhiyaw (Cree), Red River Métis, and of Eastern European descent. I was born and raised in my ancestral territory in Peace River, Alberta, where I acknowledge the Cree, Dene, Beaver, and Métis peoples. I have maternal kinship ties to the Lubicon Lake First Nation and Woodland Cree First Nation, both located in Treaty 8 territory. I am a proud member of the Métis Nation of Alberta, and am directly descended from the Lambert, Lizotte, Flett and Bird families of the Red River Métis. I have worked in the Canadian education system for 12 years as a teacher, educational assistant and Indigenous Support Worker. I completed a Bachelor of Education from the University of Calgary, and a Master of Education in Indigenous Education from the University of Columbia. Currently, I am in my first year of a PhD in Educational Studies at UBC. I teach urban Indigenous youth and am passionate about creating an educational space where they can safely explore their identities. My research focuses on how urban Indigenous youth connect with their Indigenous identities within a school setting. The work of Indigenous education is woven into my heart and my being. As an educator and researcher, my goal is to improve the Canadian education system and break down barriers for Indigenous students. I carry the teachings of my Nêhiyaw and Métis ancestors with me, as a mother, educator, student, and leader, grounded in love, care, and the kinship responsibilities that shape how I move through the world. I approach this important work with authenticity, humility, and love for my colleagues, teachers, and students.