Indigenous Spotlight: April 10
Channel: Saskatoon Public Library
Date: 2021-04-10

"I felt trapped." During the time of COVID and isolation, domestic violence has been on the rise. In today's Indigenous Spotlight, author Kendra Weenie is here to discuss the impact of domestic violence on her life. 

Kendra is the author of "Surviving Domestic Violence" (https://my.saskatoonlibrary.ca/sm/search/item/2868827). She's also an inspirational speaker, workshop facilitator and CBC Future 40 Recipient. She is a Cree woman from Sweetgrass First Nation. Kendra grew up single-parented, on welfare, with minimal opportunity for success. It wasn’t until she became involved in sports that she developed confidence, work ethic, and a sense of identity. Sports have always been a part of Kendra’s life, from being a college volleyball player, coach, and provincial program coordinator. Sports and culture helped to keep her motivated to complete her Education degree, and heal from past trauma. Kendra is a survivor of domestic violence. Her recent memoir "Surviving Domestic Violence" was shortlisted for a Saskatchewan book award in 2020. 

Kendra continues to share her story in hopes of encouraging other women to heal and promotes self-care through youth and women’s workshops. Over the past year, she has co-founded two non-profits. Crystal’s Gift is based out of Saskatoon and is a program designed to assist single mothers in need of gently used furniture items. IndigiFund is a non-profit aimed at empowering Indigneous youth in the areas of sport, education, and culture. Last year, Kendra created a bursary opportunity for single mothers in high school or university. In 2020, she gave out 5 bursaries to single mothers and hopes that eventually she’ll be able to offer scholarships. Although she has her own challenges as a single mother, she believes that true success comes from our ability to help others in need.