Play New: Kendra Jessie

Kendra Jessie shows us that through movement, we can begin again, heal, and get in touch with the world around us.

"Movement is my culture" is something Kendra doesn't just say but truly believes in. A Cree-Ukrainian woman, Kendra is a dancer, an Indigenous wellness advocate and a fitness trainer. She's always picking up a new workout, learning how to move in different ways and pushing her limits. 

For Kendra, physical exercise goes beyond simply hitting the gym. It's about honoring her mental wellness and giving back to her community.

Growing up, Kendra felt alienated at times, like she never quite fit in. After playing hockey for most of her life, Kendra started to explore other workouts to find self-compassion and redefine what movement was to her. On this journey, Kendra re-connected, deeper than ever before, to her Indigenous roots.

Lately, she's been focusing on strength training and yoga, all while making movement accessible to others. Kendra has also been learning and practicing the Fancy Shawl dance that she performs at Pow Wows to celebrate her community. When she talks about it, she can't help but light up.

Kendra is always learning, healing and growing. For her, leaving a legacy is about empowering others to discover that moving our bodies is as natural as breathing.

"I'm proud of myself, of my family, my community, and I'm proud to be Indigenous." Kendra is just getting warmed up, and yet she's already reached a new breadth of movement.  

The film was shot on Tsúūt’ínà Nation & in Mohkínstsis, also known as Calgary, in the Treaty 7 Territory of Southern Alberta.