Dëneze Nakehk’o is a Dehcho and Denesuline Dene from Łı́ı́dlı̨ı̨ Kų́ę́ First Nation (Fort Simpson, NT). A well-known Indigenous activist, communicator and intellectual in the Northwest Territories, he gained widespread recognition as a founding member of Dene Nahjo in 2012: a non-government organization working to advance Indigenous leadership and cultural resurgence through land-based education and community building. Mr. Nakehk’o is a passionate advocate for Indigenous knowledge systems, cultural revitalization, and self-determination.
He has an extensive background in northern media, including with APTN and CBC, and developed and co-hosted the podcast Operation Morning Light. His media experience includes work as a video journalist, time as Program Manager with CKLB Radio, and hosting various radio and TV news shows. He also served as Director of Policy and Communications with the NWT Department of Aboriginal Affairs and Intergovernmental Relations.
Mr. Nakehk’o is a firm believer in the value that Indigenous values, traditions, languages, and worldviews have in education. On the role of the Indigenous Knowledge Holders Council, he says “We are breaking trail in the deep woods of post-secondary institutions. Aurora College has established itself with an elevated way of governance. For the first time, Indigenous peoples are not just recommending or advising the College, we have a legislated say in making decisions. We are honoured to continue our strong traditions but also to endeavour in the careful progress of planning and visioning for the College and all of the peoples walking their own educational pathways.”
His dedication to Indigenous education is also apparent in his role as a Research Fellow with the Yellowknife Institute, an Indigenous-led research and education centre within the Faculty of Arts at Toronto Metropolitan University, and his previous work as Indigenous Cultural Coordinator with Sir John Franklin School and St. Patrick’s High School in Yellowknife. Currently, Mr. Nakehk’o is Community Wellness Coordinator with Łı́ı́dlı̨ı̨ Kų́ę́ First Nation.
His work has also been recognized with two NWT Premier’s Awards, and the King Charles Coronation Medal.