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About

Welcome To The Feast Centre For Indigenous STBBI Research

This page offers a vibrant look into who we are, what we do, and why it matters. Through storytelling, ceremony, and community-led research, the Feast Centre is transforming how Indigenous STBBI work is imagined and carried out.

Explore our guiding approaches, dive into monthly newsletters, and watch Feast Centre for Indigenous STBBI Research to hear directly from the voices shaping this movement.

Here, relationships are the method, knowledge is shared at the kitchen table, and futures are built with love, laughter, and Indigenous excellence.

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Who We Are

The Feast Centre is a five-year, cross-Canada initiative housed at McMaster University. We support Indigenous and allied researchers through:

  • Grants and scholarships for scholars at all career levels
  • Community-based research training across disciplines
  • Knowledge translation support guided by Indigenous principles
  • Writing retreats and academic-community conferences that centre collaboration and care

We are proud to partner with communities, researchers, and policy-makers across Turtle Island to center Indigenous-led public health solutions and drive research with real-world impact.

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Our Mission

To establish, implement, and sustain Indigenous STBBI research initiatives through a national network of academic and community partnerships grounded in Indigenous ways of knowing and doing.

Our Vision

To cultivate a vibrant, well-connected network of Indigenous STBBI researchers and community members who privilege Indigenous being and knowing and are committed to work that achieves meaningful, lasting community impact.

Our Objectives

Indigenous Knowledge As A Catalyst For Change

Support the use and growth of Indigenous knowledge systems in STBBI research.

United Pillars: Collaborative STBBI Research

Foster collaboration across clinical research, basic science, epidemiology, and social sciences.

Cultivating Connection, Diversity & Leadership

Strengthen a diverse community of Indigenous and allied scholars, trainees, and knowledge holders.

Accelerating Change Through Indigenous Knowledge

Advance Indigenous knowledge translation to accelerate policy and practice change that reflects Indigenous values and priorities.

Feast Centre Newsletters

Each Feast Centre newsletter offers a snapshot of the work, voices, and visions shaping Indigenous-led STBBI research across Turtle Island. Through ceremony, storytelling, and community action, these monthly updates spotlight fellowship programs, key events, writing retreats, advocacy work, and cultural celebrations that honor Indigenous knowledge and build pathways to thriving futures.

Click on each issue to explore what we’ve been up to – and how you can join the journey.

May 2023 Learn more

This edition highlights the launch of Indigenous Sexual Futures, reflections from the Miyo’maci’howin Writing Retreat, and updates on community-led STBBI research.

Dive into stories of ceremony, creativity, and Indigenous excellence shaping health futures across Turtle Island.

April 2023 Learn more

Celebrate the momentum of Indigenous-led STBBI research with highlights from CAHR 2023, the launch of new fellowships, and reflections on community-driven innovation.

This issue showcases how ceremony and knowledge continue to shape health equity across Turtle Island.

February/ March 2023 Learn more

Unveiling the Feast Centre’s refreshed website, this edition features powerful moments from the Miyo’maci’howin Writing Retreat and updates on fellowships and partnerships.

Step into a season of renewal, storytelling, and Indigenous excellence.

January 2023 Learn more

Step into a season of reflection and celebration with highlights from Indigenous AIDS Awareness Week, updates on STBBI research, and stories of community resilience.

This issue honours Indigenous leadership and the power of ceremony in shaping health futures.

November/ December 2022 Learn more

From reflections on Indigenous Sexual Futures to updates on fellowships and community-led research, this edition highlights how storytelling, ceremony, and knowledge translation continue to shape STBBI work across Turtle Island.

Take a moment to explore the voices and visions guiding our path forward.

September/October 2022 Learn more

Catch up on reflections from Indigenous AIDS Awareness Week, updates on fellowships and research grants, and highlights from the Miyo’maci’howin Writing Retreat.

This issue celebrates community-led STBBI research and the power of Indigenous storytelling in shaping health futures.

Quick Links

Our Team team

Get to know the vibrant community of Elders, scholars, and advocates driving Indigenous STBBI research through ceremony, knowledge, and care.

Podcast Learn more

Pull up a chair for monthly storytelling sessions that explore sexuality, identity, and wellness – rooted in Indigenous knowledge and led by community voices.

News Learn more

Stay updated with the latest insights, reflections, and events shaping Indigenous-led STBBI work across Turtle Island.