Marc Forgette | Reconciliation Through Identity, Belonging, and Building Forward

In this episode of Tune Up Your Warrior, Jenny sits down with Marc Forgette, an Anishinaabe educator, speaker, and founder of Makatew Workshops.Marc is a proud member of the Apitipi Anicinapek Nation, belongs to the Bear Clan, and is currently learning the language. Through his work with Makatew Workshops, he leads cultural awareness workshops, speaking engagements, and conversations focused on Indigenous education, inclusion, and reconciliation in practice.Together, Jenny and Marc explore Indigenous culture, reconciliation, and how we create safer, more human spaces for learning. Marc shares the story behind launching Makatew Workshops six and a half years ago after noticing a lack of Indigenous representation in hospitality conferences, and how that work has grown into creating spaces where people can learn through hands-on experiences, ask honest questions, and build deeper understanding.They also discuss what genuine reconciliation looks like in practice, the distinction between cultural appreciation and appropriation, and why land acknowledgments only matter when they are delivered with care, authenticity, and intention. Marc emphasizes that reconciliation requires both Indigenous and non-Indigenous peoples working together, and that meaningful learning often begins with courage, curiosity, and a willingness to ask questions without shame.The conversation also highlights how powwows, Indigenous cuisine, and community spaces can offer meaningful ways for everyone to experience and appreciate Indigenous culture firsthand while supporting Indigenous businesses and relationships in the process.Marc also invites listeners to check out the Summer Solstice Powwow, taking place June 20 and 21 at Wesley Clover Park, 401 Corkstown Road. Everyone is welcome.This is a thoughtful, forward-looking conversation about culture, connection, reconciliation, and the kind of understanding that grows when people are willing to engage with openness and respect.To learn more about Marc, visit: https://www.makatew.ca/