About
S’ahn n’ay l’ah guhn
Good day to you.
My name is Nadia Salmaniw. My traditional name is S’ahn N’ahn Guu’as which translates to the girl who sings. I am a proud, mixed heritage Indigenous woman. I am Haida on my mother’s side and Ukrainian on my father’s side. My identity comes alive where these two rich cultures converge.
My Story...
I carry a unique perspective and approach to “2 eyed seeing”–holding extensive business knowledge and savvy when it comes to marketing and recruitment strategies, while also being grounded in traditional ways of being.
I come from a long line of bridgebuilders. My ancestors, including my great, great grandfather Chief Edward Edenshaw, were known for building good relationship with the non indigenous community-fostering peace, positive regard and allyship.
It is my purpose to carry on this family legacy and to continue the good work of my ancestors. The perspective I carry allows for a non-judgemental, caring, and authentic approach, while offering clear and concise guidance that is kind and easily digestible that cuts through to the core; to the truth of what I witness and observe.
My mission statement/my purpose…
To support our fellow humans, teams and corporations with transformation, awakening and connection-to-connection within and with the Land. This allows me to witness, to observe, to pay attention with compassion and reflect back the beauty and truth of what I see.
I believe in the power of stillness, focused attention and compassionate witnessing and direct yet kind guidance to transform both individuals, teams and entire organizations.
Summary of credentials
- Over 10 years direct experience working collaboratively and alongside our local urban indigenous community as well as extensive experience guiding and consulting local employers and businesses.
- Over 8 years experience facilitating mindfulness and wellness workshops.
- Alumni of Mcgill University - holding a psychology degree BSc.
Values
Beauty
Walking in the world with a spirit of imagination and exploration, in service to others, seeing beauty in everything and everyone.
Connection to the Land
Living unhurried and unfettered in a slow embrace with the earth and emerging with abundance and generosity.
Presence
Living a simple, harmonious life, deeply connected to spirit, fulfilling my purpose, sharing joy, hope and wonder with others.
Excellence
Daily releasing perfectionism and embracing my creativity, originality and presence as good enough.
Freedom
The gift of living life on my own terms, free to play, create and follow heart-centred opportunities without restraints.
Gratitude
Intentionally choosing a grate-full life.
What lights me up
- Neuroscience and the power of re-wiring our brains
- Innovative solutions to the ongoing climate crisis
- My Culture-reclaiming traditional practices and ways of being
- Good food
- Good conversation
- Connecting with the Land
I hold my hands up to the Lək̓ʷəŋən-speaking Songhees and Esquimalt nations, and the WSÁNEĆ peoples on whose traditional territory I live and do my work.