Biography – Linda Bearpaw
My name is Linda Bearpaw and I am a proud member of the Stoney Nakoda Tribe – Wesley First Nation.
I was born in Calgary, Alberta but was raised by my grandmother since I was a baby on the Stoney Reserve at Morley. The local Morley Community school provided me with my education but unfortunately I had to drop out before finishing my Grade 12. Presently I am planning to finish my Grade 12 at Bow Valley College and then attend SAIT’s culinary program. My ultimate career goal is to work in the Bow Corridor as a chef.
My hobbies include travelling to Pow Wow’s as a jingle dress dancer, beading and sewing which I learned at a young age from my grandmother.
I have two loving and beautiful children – a son and a daughter – and I am also expecting another in December of this year. In addition, I am also a step to three other children.
I am presently living with my grandmother as I do not have a house to call my own. In addition to my family of three and grandma, there could be as many as 6 or 7 other family members staying there. The crowded household has lead to to a great deal of stress and uncertainty for both me and my children.
My family really needs to place of our own which will help me to achieve my personal and career goals and the dreams of my children. The Stoney Nakoda way and tradition are very important to me and I want to teach these to my children and grandchildren.
I thought that I would wait a lifetime for a chance to have my own place but this Friendship House will provide me with a new and bright outlook on life.
On behalf of myself and my children, I would like to thank the Wesley Chief and Council, Timko Developments and all of the sponsors for this house and what it will provide to my family for out lifetime.