Butterflies, Elastic Bands, and Other Leadership Lessons from New Fellowship
Justina Ray of WCS Canada, Valérie Courtois of ILI, Fellow Mary-Jo Michell, Minister of Indigenous Services Mandy Gull-Masty, Fellow Taylor Galvin, the Honourable Ethel Blondin Andrew, P.C., O.C., and Cathy Wilkinson of ILI.
August 4, 2026
By Mary-Jo Michell
The First Nations Women Transforming Conservation Fellowship was far more than a learning journey. It was a metamorphic experience. Over the past year, I was exposed to opportunities and conversations I never imagined I would be a part of. From reading books, listening to podcasts, watching documentaries, to out on the ground studying macroinvertebrates in the Yukon, to walking the streets of New York City, to asking questions of Ministers and Senators in Ottawa; this fellowship has broadened my understanding of conservation, stewardship, policy, advocacy, nature finance, cultural burning, and Indigenous leadership at local, national, and global scales.
It was a privilege to learn from and be supported by some of the strongest Indigenous women leaders and trailblazers in Canada. They welcomed the fellows into spaces where knowledge was shared openly and where diverse perspectives came together with a common purpose. Through these experiences, I gained not only professional knowledge but also valuable lessons that I will carry with me throughout my life and career.
One of the most impactful teachings I received was the “elastic band” lesson. The concept was simple: how far can you stretch yourself before you can no longer return to a place of balance? At first, it seemed straightforward, but it immediately resonated with me. I began reflecting on the times I had stretched myself too thin, the times I felt grounded and whole, and the moments when I was recovering from pushing myself beyond my limits. This teaching reminded me that self-awareness is essential. I now regularly check in with myself before making major decisions, asking where my own elastic band is and whether I have the capacity to take on more.
Mary-Jo Michell with a member of the Aunties Circle, Former Councillor and Chief of the Xat’sull First Nation Bev Sellars at the National Indigenous Fire Gathering.
Aunties Share on the Challenge of Balance
Another lesson came during a conversation with the Aunties Circle. I remember asking them how they managed to do it all: to be mothers, wives, sisters, friends, leaders, teachers, learners, and knowledge keepers while remaining grounded in their responsibilities and traditional teachings. What stood out most was the look of recognition and acknowledgement they shared, as if they understood exactly what I was asking because they were still working through it themselves.
Their response has stayed with me ever since. They explained that balance is not something you achieve and maintain forever. It is an everyday practice. It is circular, not linear. Balance requires caring for the spirit, mind, body, emotions, family, and environment. There will always be seasons of growth, challenge, joy and uncertainty. The most important thing is to trust yourself, trust in your abilities, and remember that your ancestors walk alongside you. All any of us can do is make the best decision we can with the knowledge we have at that moment knowing that balance is a lifelong journey rather than a destination.
Growth through Connection
The fellowship also reinforced the power of connection. Throughout my career and leadership journey, I have understood the importance of networking, but this experience showed me the true impact of building meaningful relationships across sectors and communities. I witnessed how powerful conversations can create opportunities, strengthen partnerships, and advance goals. I learned how to communicate more effectively, understand different audiences, and build relationships with intention. Being a connector has always been one of my strengths but learning from these accomplished women helped me refine that skill even further.
The best way I can describe this journey has been through the eyes of our butterfly relatives. Before the fellowship, I was an anxious caterpillar, content on my own leaf and unaware of the possibilities beyond it. The women in this fellowship showed me the nectar and what flying can look like. Over the course of a year, I began transforming. I believe I am still emerging from my cocoon now, my wings not fully dry, but I am about to take flight. For the first time I truly felt seen, supported, heard, and encouraged. I learned that authentic leadership is not about perfection; it is about showing up, doing the work, remaining curious, having fun, and continuing to grow.
This fellowship was everything I could have hoped for and more. I am deeply grateful to the aunties, my fellow - fellow, and organizers who made this journey possible. As well to my partner, children, sisters, friends, and nation for their unwavering support. Together we are stronger. Together we heal, and together we create change.
kʷukʷstéys he xeʔɫ kʷúkʷpiʔ tekm he sɣəpɣép syéleʔxn ʔeɬ he muséleʔxn te spzupzúʔ he qʷuʔ ʔeɫ he tmixʷ kt peyeʔwíʔx tekm he tmixʷ
cukʷ kʷukʷstéyp cíycetqʷúʔ
( We give thanks to the creator. For all of the trees, two-legged, four-legged and animals, the water and the land. We are one with the earth. finished, thank you all. cíycetqʷúʔ )
The two inaugural First Nations Women Transforming Conservation Fellows, Taylor Galvin and Mary-Jo Michell at the National Indigenous Guardians Gathering.
