In this episode, we sit down with Minneapolis-based actor, writer, and director
Ajuawak Kapashesit. Ajuawak, who is Ojibwe, Cree, and Jewish, grew up in Ontario and on the White Earth Reservation. His acting credits include
Indian Horse (2017),
Once Upon a River (2019),
Indian Road Trip (2020),
Bad Blood (CityTV/Netflix), and
Outlander (Starz/Sony). Ajuawak’s short story, “A Fresh Start,” was published in the anthology
Before the Usual Time by Latitude 46. He was a story editor and contributing writer for the second and third seasons of the sketch comedy show,
Tallboyz (CBC).
He delves into his writing process, how he plays with different genres and eras, getting into character, and his rugby career. Ajuawak talks about the differences between writing a short story, feature film, and television pilot, and how collaboration with other actors on set can bring out a particular creativity.
Ajuawak, who was first inspired by his grandmother’s artistic process as a child, shares how expanding what narratives are presented to audiences can be a radical form of inclusion for Indigenous viewers. For Ajuawak, connecting through story can build bridges and usher in necessary change.
Tune in for an engaging conversation with one of today’s most vibrant, Indigenous artists!
What is Native Lights: Where Indigenous Voices Shine?
In Native Lights, people in Native communities around Mni Sota Mkoce - a.k.a. Minnesota - tell their stories about finding their gifts and sharing them with the community. These are stories of joy, strength, history, and change from Native people who are shaping the future and honoring those who came before them.
Native Lights is also a weekly, half-hour radio program hosted by Mille Lacs Band of Ojibwe members and siblings, Leah Lemm and Cole Premo. Native Lights is a space for people in Native communities.
Native Lights: Where Indigenous Voices Shine is produced by Minnesota Native News and Ampers, Diverse Radio for Minnesota’s Communities with support from the Minnesota Arts and Cultural Heritage fund. Online at https://minnesotanativenews.org/