Shane Pennells is a filmmaker and writer and has worked with at-risk and marginalized populations for more than 20 years, using the arts to bring attention to their voices and stories. He has also done extensive work in the area of media advisory and media theory education, for which he has received both provincial and federal commendations. He is the past Chair of Arts for All and currently sits on the boards of Theatre Aquarius and Shalem Mental Health Network. He was recently named as “best freelance or guest columnist” by the Ontario Community Newspapers Association.

When not being a media mogul he enjoys baseball, all things computer-related, and figuring out where to put his latest book store finds on increasingly overcrowded shelves. He lives in Hamilton with his wife and their two cats, who love her but merely tolerate him

Lacey Hill is Oneida/Mohawk of Six Nations, Wolf Clan. She is a singer/songwriter and inspirational speaker. Lacey went solo launching her debut album titled 528, independently. 2017 Her sophomore album 528 Volume II M has taken Lacey across Canada and onto international stages. 2018-2019 Lacey opened Sydney Australia’s Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras 40th Anniversary concert and Cher closed. Laceys a featured artist at Thru the Red Door Studios and she has also been a guest on Derek Miller’s Aboriginal Peoples Network Television show The Guilt Free Zone Season 3. In addition to TV appearances and playing on international stages she is also getting into the theatre scene. She composed music and stage managed for Tara Beagans’ theatre production ‘Deer Woman’ which had World Premier in New Zealand, and awarded “Best Moments” at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival. Lacey’s single “The Shiner” (2020) premiered on APTN’s Amplify series, and was one of RogersTV Highlight artists. Lacey never stopped during covid times. 2020-21, She performed several online events, and linked up with NBC’s T.V Show “Resident Alien” Season 1 and 2 showcasing songs “All I see is you”, “Better Days” and “The Shiner”. 2022, Lacey landed lead role character Patti Jones on NDNZ on the Air Waves Comedy Web Series written and directed by January Rogers. Lacey also released 528 Volume 3 “The Moon” Album Which is currently available on all platforms. Kicking off 2023 with “The Conduit” and “The Moon” Charting on Indigenous Music Countdown and hitting the road with The National Arts Center as Apprentice Stage Manager for Kevin Lorings “Little Red Warrior and His Lawyer”. Lacey recently completed her first solo tour in Australia that included Sydney World Pride, Lightening Ridge, Dubbo, Brisbane Brewarinna Baiame festival, with an Arts/Theatre residency with Moogahlin Performing Arts. To keep up, check her out on Social media or her website laceyhillmusic.com

Cher Obediah is Ojibway and Mohawk of the Turtle Clan from Six Nations Ontario with roots in Alderville First Nation.

She’s a multidisciplinary creative as a filmmaker, writer, speaker, author and artist.

Cher started out in theatre before working in television and film.

Along with operating her production company she dedicates her creativity to endeavours that lend to projects focusing on healing and transformation, Indigenous culture, domestic violence, youth driven initiatives and content that inspires others to recognize their worth.

Cher received the Truly Independent Award from the Hamilton Film Festival, she was the 2020 Hamilton Media Arts Award winner and also the winner of Canfitpro’s Got Talent demonstrating powwow dancing. Cher is also the creator of Cultural Cardio, an aerobics class that includes her Indigenous roots.

Gail’s music blend is what makes her so unique, where she performs singing with her guiar, hand drum, or rattle. She loves to blend all music making her performances a unique listening experience. Gail writes, and creates songs to bring medicine to the soul, and a reconnection to your roots.

Gail’s creation of Let the Eagle Fly – title song to her CD, was recognized by the Assembly of First Nations, and this brought her to the First Annual National day of Reconciliation in Ottawa on June 11, 2009. She opened up the Ceremonies with Let the Eagle Fly, her response to the National Apology.

Gail has opened up several events with her Hand Drum, and traditional songs.