Cash R Ahenakew


Canada Research Chair in Indigenous People’s Well-Being

Tier 2 - 2020-06-01
The University of British Columbia
Canadian Institutes of Health Research



Research summary


Dr. Cash Ahenakew has spent his career searching for ways to understand how local knowledges and practices can inform the resurgence of Indigenous wisdom, knowledge, education, well-being and healing practices.

As Canada Research Chair in Indigenous People’s Well-Being, Ahenakew is focusing on decolonizing health-related research, practice and education and revitalizing Indigenous health practices. He is bringing together a network of Indigenous and non-Indigenous academics and health practitioners from six countries to advance community-based participatory research and collaborative inquiry along with trauma-informed education. Together, they hope to develop a high-quality, culture-centred, trauma-informed approach. By integrating Indigenous healing practices and land-based orientations with contemplative practices and bodywork, they will contribute to healing and well-being approaches.