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Episode 1: The Early Days of Esquao (Part 1)

Voices of Esquao

Release Date: 03/02/2026

In Part One of our debut episode, guest host Jeannette LaBrie sits down with CEO Rachelle Venne to reflect on the powerful beginnings of Esqauo, the Institute for the Advancement of Aboriginal Women.

This conversation looks back at Esquao’s earliest days, a time marked by determination, sacrifice, and an unshakeable belief in uplifting Indigenous women. Rachelle shares stories of financial and operational challenges, the women who carried the mission forward, and the resilience that laid the foundation for what Esquao would become.

Part 1 is a tribute to the strength, vision, and community spirit that sparked a movement, and to the enduring commitment to Indigenous women, girls, and Two-Spirit people that continues to guide Esquao today.

Production Credits:

Guest Host: Jeannette LaBrie

Producers: Shauna Yatsallie, Jeannette LaBrie, Rachelle Venne

Editor: Shauna Yatsallie

Editorial support: Sandra Huculak 

Mixing & mastering: Shauna Yatsallie 

IT Support: Doug Yearwood, Four Winds & Associates

For the latest episode drops and updates, follow us on social media. 

instagram.com/iaaw_ab

www.facebook.com/esquao/

http://www.youtube.com/@TheVoicesofEsquaoPodcast 

This show is made possible by Crown-Indigenous Relations and Northern Affairs Canada.