Impact Stories

MAXWELL ABITONG is from Sagamok Anishnawbek First Nations In Ontario and completed his secondary education at Espanola High School. Ensuing graduation, Maxwell was eager for new opportunities as he faced difficulties in finding employment on his Reserve. After viewing a social media post discussing a new technology and coding program called INDIGital, Maxwell registered as a participant. 

Through a 5 module curriculum, INDIGital helped develop Maxwell’s graphic design, web development, HTML, and CSS skills. Maxwell credited the program’s ability to use  Indiginized examples and analogies like beading to help explain different coding concepts, providing a smoother learning experience. Upon completion of the program, Maxwell was invited to continue his learning and attend Wascana INDIGital training in Regina, Saskatchewan. Maxwell’s role during Wascana INDIGital included carrying out administrative duties, engaging with participants, and starting the smudge for each sharing circle. This experience provided Maxwell the opportunity to learn about the Cree culture and local cultures in surrounding communities. Following Wascana INDIGital, Maxwell joined Indigenous Friends Association as the Social Media Identity and Youth Leadership Coordinator. Working remotely, Maxwell ran online educational workshops exploring different Indigenous features and face mask creations during the pandemic for the youth of Sagamok. His work during this time with youth gave Maxwell a better idea of potential future career paths. 

Maxwell is currently enrolled in the Natural Environment Technician-Conservation and Management program at Sault College. He has achieved student employment at the college serving as an event assistant, organizing events and programming workshops for his fellow peers. Maxwell plans on graduating from his program within the next 2 years. His goal is to return to Sagamok with his newly acquired knowledge and work with his elders to learn traditional knowledge. He hopes to pass on land-based education featuring both traditional and ecological knowledge to the next generation of youth from Sagamok.