PechaKucha is a method of digital storytelling — a way to engage an audience and present unique information in an entertaining, narrative style.

The public is invited to watch a series of PechaKucha presentations April 25 as part of the Rural Health Service Conference: Developing Intercultural Connections and Practical Solutions for Improving Health. The presentations begin at 7 p.m. in Heroes Pub in the Campus Activity Centre.  

Translated from Japanese to mean “chit-chat,” PechaKucha is sometimes referred to as 20×20, as it allows 20 slides to be shown for 20 seconds each. As the slides are being shown, the presenter weaves his or her own narrative.

Dr. Lisa Bourque Bearskin, an associate professor in the School of Nursing, is excited to tell her story, Indigenization of Nursing at a Crossroads, in 20 slides.

“The story really situates me as an Indigenous person within an historical, social, and economic context. It explores my history and life story of being removed from family and going through child welfare, and finding my way back home,” she explained.

Part of that journey involved becoming engaged in healing, relearning culture and traditions, and bringing many of those experiences into the nursing environment.

“The Western model tells us to leave our values and beliefs at the door, but as an Indigenous person that is very troublesome. Our experiences are so vital, and it’s important for me to bring myself — who I am — to the bedside and use my lived experience to support someone else’s healing.”

Through her 20 slides, Bourque Bearskin discusses the idea of using Indigenous values within nursing, an important concept in this era of reconciliation.

“What does reconciliation look like on the ground, and how do we take these very broad principles and implement them in our care?”

More information
Dr. Lisa Bourque Bearskin
250-828-5056
lbourquebearskin@tru.ca