08/20/2026
We are deeply saddened by the passing of Elder, teacher, Traditional Healer, and Knowledge Carrier Josh-baa Eshkawkogan of Wiikwemkoong Unceded Territory. We extend our heartfelt condolences to Josh-baa’s family, loved ones, community, and all those who are grieving his loss. As a trusted and respected collaborator with Shkaabe Makwa and CAMH, Josh-baa shared his teachings, cultural knowledge, guidance, humour and care generously, and has left a lasting impact on our work and on the many people who had the privilege of learning from him.
Josh-baa served as the presiding Elder for two Shkaabe Makwa conferences and contributed to a number of trainings including Pivoting Towards the Good Life. Last summer, he supported the delivery of a Trauma-Informed Care training in Wiikwemkoong Unceded Territory, bringing his teachings, perspectives, and lived knowledge to the learning experience.
Since 2022, Josh-baa has also served as the Elder in Wiikwemkoong Unceded Territory for the First Nations Wellness Initiative. He opened and closed each gathering, grounding our circles in safety, humility and kindness. He taught the Seven Grandfather Teachings not through his words, but by the way he lived them, through his kindness, humility, compassion, humour, and the way he made each person feel welcome and that they belonged. Even in challenging moments, his warm laughter and twinkle in his eye lifted our spirits.
We are deeply honoured and grateful to have learned from and Josh-baa and worked alongside him. His absence will be profoundly felt, but his wisdom, kindness, and the relationships he nurtured will remain woven into this work and the people whose lives he touched.
We carry his teachings and legacy forward with gratitude, humility, and respect.
📷Mark Zelinski
