Podcast

Desmond Kolombe is a square dancer from the Pimisikamak Cree Nation in Manitoba. Dancing is a big part of his identity and he teaches it to others in his community. Dancing is not just entertainment, but a sacred tradition that carries history and spiritual significance for indigenous cultures. It is also a form of resistance and healing. Kukuli Cafe in Kelowna offers a taste of indigenous culture through delicious food and a welcoming space to connect and share stories. Desmond and other dancers aim to share their cultural history and inspire pride and appreciation for indigenous traditions. The podcast ends with a teaser for the next episode about an NFL player. Welcome to Uncovered, where I dive deep into the extraordinary stories of individuals whose lives are full of passion and cultural identity. I'm your host, Jaden Mackey, and today I'm honored to share the inspiring journey of Desmond Kolombe, a square dancer of the Pimisikamak Cree Nation in Manitoba. Desmond began dancing when he was about five years old and fell in love with it immediately. He now is pursuing his passion and dances competitively while also teaching square dancing to those of the Pimisikamak Cree Nation. So let's begin to talk about how dancing has shaped Desmond into becoming the person he is today. Desmond's identity is woven into the fabric of his dancing. Growing up within the rich customs and views of the first people's culture, he had comfort and strength in the rhythmic movement and ancient traditions of square dancing. For Desmond, dancing isn't just a performance, it's a reflection of who he is, where he comes from, and the resilience of his people. So this brings us into my next topic of how important the art of dancing is to the culture and identity of the first peoples. Dancing has long been the heart of first people's cultures all around the world. A typical stereotype that comes to mind when people think of first people's dancing is that it's just a form of entertainment. This is not the case at all. It is a sacred tradition that carries with it centuries of history, wisdom, and spiritual significance. Dancing is also a form of language. It's a way of communicating with the ancestors and the spirits and the land. Every step and every movement is embedded with meaning, representing the stories and beliefs that have been passed down from generation to generation. Empowerment and healing come from dancing too. It serves as a form of resistance against the forces of colonization and assimilation. Dances provide joy and warmth to those around them, essentially healing all affected by past traumas. The list goes on and on as to why this art is so meaningful and impactful to the first peoples. Craving a taste of indigenous culture? Try the Kukuli Cafe, where tradition meets modern flavor in every dish. Nestled in the heart of downtown Kelowna, Kukuli Cafe is a culinary haven where every special meal comes with heritage and culture. From homemade warm banak to fresh greens and rice bowls to banak sandwiches, you really can't go wrong when it comes to deciding what to eat. Kukuli Cafe is more than just a place to enjoy delicious food. It's a gathering space, a place to connect and share stories, celebrating the community. The Kukuli Cafe invites you to come and enjoy the true spirit of indigenous hospitality. So why wait? Come on down and let your taste buds dance to the rhythm of indigenous flavors. I want to dive a bit deeper into the purpose behind Desmond's dancing and why so many first peoples showcase their dancing skills for everyone to see. Every performance of Desmond's has the same drive behind it, simply to share the rich history and stories of his ancestors through the universal language of dance. With each movement, he invites the audience to embark on a journey of cultural discovery, waving together tales of wisdom, resilience, and connections between humans and the land. Desmond is not alone on his mission. Across first peoples' communities, dancers of all ages and backgrounds showcase their skills to the public. For many dancers, sharing their art is more than just entertainment. It's a form of culture preservation, a way of honoring the past while embracing the future. Through their passion for dancing, they hope to inspire pride and develop an appreciation for indigenous traditions. As today's podcast comes to an end, I'd like to thank you for joining me in discussing Desmond Colombe's passion for dancing and his cultural background, while also exploring the profound significance of dance in first peoples' cultures. I have a special guest joining us for the next episode involving their fascinating story of how they made it to the NFL, but I'm going to have to leave it at that, so you'll just have to wait until next episode. I'm your host, Jade Mackey. Thank you for joining me on this journey, and I look forward to welcoming you back for more intriguing conversations with extraordinary people in the future. Bye for now. Take care.