Laura Grizzlypaws is a proud St’at’imc mother from Xwisten, embracing her cultural heritage through the art of dance as a means of reclaiming sovereignty and resilience. From an early age, she felt drawn to the rhythms of her ancestors, seeking to express her identity through song, dance, and storytelling, all while navigating a colonial world.
Dance became her calling, a reflection of her roots and a tool for advocacy. Growing up in her community, she aspired to honour traditions while breaking barriers of oppression, particularly for Indigenous women in the arts. Thus, Grizz Bookings was born, a platform to amplify Indigenous voices and narratives through performances and cultural events.
Through dance, Grizzlypaws found empowerment and purpose, rooted in the rich values of her culture. It became a vehicle for resilience, a testament to the strength and beauty of Indigenous heritage. Her journey has been guided by a commitment to living authentically and showing future generations that success in a colonial world is possible without compromising cultural identity.
Grizzlypaws strives to be a role model, demonstrating that life can be lived with purpose and intent, grounded in the traditions of her people. Her ultimate goal is to inspire others to embrace their heritage, to find strength in their roots, and to dance with pride and resilience in the face of adversity. Through Grizz Bookings and her journey in dance, she hopes to leave a legacy of empowerment and cultural resurgence for generations to come.
-Written by Roxane Letterlough
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Which ‘hood are you in?
I am from the Central Interior of the Plateau region, specifically from a small isolated town called Lillooet. However, my heart and identity lie with my St’at’imc identity, rooted in the Xwisten Bear Clan Community known as Bridge River.
What do you do?
As the Indigenous Educational Developer of Indigenous Teaching and Learning at Thompson Rivers University, I focus on supporting the Truth and Reconciliation Calls to Action, particularly in improving education attainment levels and success rates, as well as developing culturally appropriate curricula. My role involves working closely with faculty and staff towards teaching and design solutions, providing supportive feedback, guidance and constructive feedback on curriculum development and program design.
What are you currently working on?
Currently, I’m immersed in the illustration phase of my St’at’imc Alphabet Sounds and Symbols Children’s book. Concurrently, I’m pursuing my Education Doctorate in Leadership and Governance at Simon Fraser University, with plans to complete my Comprehensive Exam in Summer 2024 and commence work on my dissertation. Additionally, I’m prioritizing my mental, physical, and emotional health in preparation for my upcoming fitness competition.
Where can we find your work?
Website | Instagram | Facebook | Youtube
Also, you can find my book “Sulyálesta” on Amazon.
