The Turtle Lodge International Centre for Indigenous Education and Wellness is a sacred lodge of the Anishinabe Peoples, situated in Sagkeeng First Nation on the Southern tip of Lake Winnipeg. 

The Lodge is internationally recognized as a place for sharing universal and ancient knowledge, for reconnecting to the earth and nature, and for sharing among people of all races and nations. It is founded upon spiritual, land-based teachings that bring balance to life, with the fundamental goal of Mino-Pi-Mati-Si-Win – A Good and Peaceful Way of Life. Mino-Pi-Matisi-Win is about seeing, listening, feeling, speaking, and acting from the heart.

The Lodge was built in 2002 in fulfillment of a vision received by Elder Dave Courchene. For the First Peoples of America, visions and dreams have always offered guidance in life. Following our visions has helped us remain connected to the Great Spirit and the land. The turtle for the First Peoples is a symbol of truth, and the Elders believe that Dave’s vision of the lodge can bring healing to people and peace to the world.

Over the past fifteen years the Lodge has been a center for events, ceremonies, conferences, and gatherings of people from around the world to honour the traditional knowledge of the First Peoples of these lands. 

Dave Courchene - Nii Gaani Aki Inini (Leading Earth Man)

Dave Courchene is a respected Elder and Knowledge Keeper of the Anishinabe First Nation. He has devoted his life to creating a healthy environment for current and future generations, carrying messages of hope and peace around the world.

Dave’s leadership and stewardship have had global influence - from lighting the sacred fire at the UN Earth Summit in 1992, to delivering the keynote and conducting the opening ceremonies at the 2010 G8 Summit on World Religions, to sharing the stage with spiritual leaders including the Dalai Lama. His work and vision have been recognized through many prestigious honours, including the National Aboriginal Achievement (INDSPIRE) Award in Culture, Heritage & Spirituality, the Volunteer Manitoba Award for Outstanding Community Leadership, the International Award of Excellence, the Aboriginal Circle of Educators Award, and the International Indigenous Leadership Award.

Dave shares the ancient knowledge of the Original People of Turtle Island, that he believes can act as the foundation in supporting the New Life that Mother Earth is now entering, and that the Elders have confirmed has arrived.

Watch this video to hear more of Dave’s story and message...