The Anangokaa Festival which in Anishinabeg means “there are many stars” symbolizes a space for Indigenous students to dream and aspire beyond their current horizons.
The Anangokaa Festival was launched by Jason Michaud, CEO and Founder of Stardust Inc, a visionary who is dedicated to establishing an aerospace industry with space-related training and education in the north. Michaud says, “Stardust is committed to making space exploration accessible. We believe that each of us has the potential to shape the future of humanity and make a meaningful contribution to our journey to our stars.”
The festival will focus on introducing Indigenous students from across northern Ontario to the opportunities in the space economy while also amplifying Indigenous voices and cultural practices. The Anangokaa Festival will be held in Timmins and Mattagami First Nation from September 27th to October 2nd. Organizers expect up to 1,000 students, positioning it as the largest Indigenous youth space-focused event in the world.
Why a space center in Northern Ontario?
Matthew Gallina is the Business Development Officer for Stardust, and he says they are asked all the time, why establish a space center in northern Ontario when Toronto already has space-related industries and Montreal is the base for the Canadian Space Agency. Gallina says, “Because with advances in technology, we’re all interconnected. Building capacity and resource development is focused on underrepresented areas. The question should be, why can’t the north be in space, what is stopping us?
Stardust believes that Timmins and Mattagami First Nation could be centers of space education and career exploration. Gallina says, “By creating northern hubs of space education and exploration, we hope to encourage surrounding communities in the north to experience the opportunities of working in the space sector, while staying close to their home base.” Stardust believes the space sector is sustainable in the north and they also understand the importance of community and support centers.
Northern Ontario is where dreams go to thrive
Many are frustrated by the defeatist mindset that because of a lack of resources and financial support, the north is where dreams go to die. Jason Michaud wants to flip that narrative to “the north is where dreams go to thrive.” The ultimate goal is to create a sustainable space center in the north under the ownership of the Mattagami First Nation. Gallina points out, “The mining industry has skills transferrable to space education. With the goal of habitation on the moon, there is going to be mining in space within 10 years.”
The Anangokaa Festival’s goal is to plant the seeds of space industry possibilities in the minds of students and within the space sector. Gallina says, “The Anangokaa Festival is focused on presenting opportunities for Indigenous representation in space and creating new pathways into space education and career exploration, not only for Indigenous students across Ontario but for other sectors as well.” The sectors that may participate in the space economy include the skilled trades, the legal profession, advanced manufacturing, and information technology. Tim Harvey, CEO of Mattagami Aki says, “We need to enhance the range of opportunities in the northern region, particularly in a region that relies heavily on projects. Connecting transferable skills and education to the aerospace industry further bolsters the Northern Ontario Economy.” For example, astronauts are required to learn skilled trades, and these are skills that may create opportunities for marginalized and underrepresented populations.
Robotics, Rovers and Rocketry
The Anangokaa Festival will feature a Discover Space Center with a focus on career exploration with hands-on demonstrations of space-related technologies and STEAM opportunities. Students will be introduced to the exciting world of robotics, rovers, and rocketry and if they are interested in pursuing it, they will be guided on the steps they should take. Gallina says, “We want to build engagement and convince students that this is a realistic opportunity for them. We will help them create pathways toward their educational journey in the space sector. When students learn that something is possible, they are receptive to the idea. We don’t want them to think it’s an unattainable fantasy.”
Global aerospace and exploration companies will also be represented at the festival. Stardust advises industrial partners how to create a workplace that is comfortable for Indigenous students which includes cultural awareness training and how to attract and retain an Indigenous workforce. Harvey says, “We highly value the opportunity to highlight the associations and partners that have contributed to the success of Stardust Industries for the benefit of our younger generations. Providing them with the chance to connect with industry experts and gain insight into mentorship, career paths, educational trajectories, and current prospects is immensely valuable.” Stardust is committed to making the space economy accessible to all.
Forging connections while celebrating Indigenous culture
The Anangokaa Festival’s foundational mission is to celebrate Indigenous culture and raise awareness about mental health, along with forging powerful connections between Canada’s space sector and Indigenous youth.
The festival will offer enhanced opportunities for community leaders, elders, and participants to engage with Indigenous culture, including traditional practices such as,
- Living on the land
- Smudging
- Beading
- Community feasts
The Anangokaa Festival highlights a unique fusion of tradition and technology. Tim Harvey says, “This is a great opportunity for our community and all neighbouring communities to come together to share ideas.” This collaboration fosters mutual respect and learning, promoting Indigenous cultural heritage while encouraging inclusivity in the growing space economy.
Anangokaa Festival Highlights
The Anangokaa Festival will reach Indigenous youth beyond the Timmins area and cover the costs for students travelling more than 100km. A livestream feed will also be available to students who cannot attend the festival.
The preliminary itinerary includes,
- Visit to Mattagami First Nation with a focus on cultural activities
- ReconciliACTION Workshops and a Community Feast which will be held on September 30th, National Truth and Reconciliation Day
- Career Fair for high school and post-secondary students
- Speakers’ Summit for students, including mentoring workshops
- STEM+ demonstrations and competitions for all students, featuring rovers, robotics, and Indigenous led rocketry.
- Mental Health and Career Readiness Workshops
- Trina Maher – Member of Mattagmi Cultural Awareness Training
- VIP Itinerary will include networking sessions with Indigenous leaders and open and underground mine tours with the Minister of Mines
The Anangokaa Festival is about what’s now and about what’s next! It will encourage Indigenous youth to realize the opportunities and possibilities that are available to them in the space economy.
For more information on sponsorship opportunities, or to discuss a customized package tailored to your organizations needs, please contact Matthew Gallina, Business Development Officer via email: [email protected] . You can also learn more about the Anangokaa Festival or Stardust Inc. online.