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Folashade Kortee
Traditional Drummer and Singer, Social Worker, Wellness Counsellor
Folashade (she/her) is based in Toronto.
Their identities and lived-experience qualifications are a crucial contributor to their expertise. These are some that they identify with:
Here's the dynamic range of services they offer with Future Ancestors Services:
This is just a glimpse of the incredible breadth of subject-matter expertise they bring to the table:
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Photo provided by Folashade K.
Folashade Kortee is a Métis-Cree (Citizen of the Métis Nation of Ontario) and Nigerian woman committed to supporting Black and Indigenous wellness through her work as an Indigenous Wellness Counsellor and Coordinator at the University of Toronto. A registered social worker with the OCSWSSW, Folashade completed her Master’s in Social Work specializing in Indigenous Trauma and Resiliency at the University of Toronto, building on her Bachelor’s in Kinesiology and Health Sciences from York University.
In addition to her role in wellness, Folashade is a traditional hand drum carrier and facilitator, artist, and singer/songwriter. She integrates these passions into her advocacy and counselling, offering traditional teachings and workshops to strengthen community and cultural connections. Her outreach includes organizing and facilitating a Black and Indigenous wellness series, dedicated to promoting holistic wellbeing for both communities. Beyond her professional work, Folashade is a newlywed who enjoys hiking and swimming, activities that connect her to nature and support her commitment to wellness and physical health.
We can assure you, they're worth getting to know.
Photos provided by Folashade K.
How does their lived experience shape their qualification?
As a Métis-Cree and Nigerian woman, my lived experience deeply shapes my work as a social worker. Raised as a second-generation Canadian by my father in low-income, TCHC housing, I was often the only Black and Indigenous person in spaces like my lifeguard job and academic settings. Navigating multiple cultural identities and systemic barriers has shaped empathy and a commitment to advocating for marginalized voices.
I completed my Bachelor’s in Kinesiology and Health Sciences at York University and my Master’s in Social Work with a focus on Indigenous Trauma and Resiliency at the University of Toronto. My clinical placements at CAMH Shkaabe Makwa and Weaving Wellness provided hands-on experience supporting diverse communities. Currently, as an Indigenous Wellness Counsellor at the University of Toronto, I apply trauma-informed, culturally grounded approaches to support individuals.
A transformative moment in my life was reuniting my mother, a Sixties Scoop survivor, with my maternal grandmother, strengthening my understanding of cultural reconnection. As an artist and traditional drum carrier, I integrate these teachings into my work, empowering others to reclaim their cultural practices.
These experiences fuel my passion for creating inclusive spaces where individuals, particularly from Indigenous and Black communities, are supported, fostering resilience, healing, and…
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“Folashade has worked with various groups including children in care; middle years; adults and seniors. Folashade demonstrates professionalism, respect, encouragement, and kindness in all of her circles.
Folashade’s willingness to create time in her busy work and school schedule to do community workshops shows her understanding of her responsibilities in sharing traditional drum song knowledge with the Indigenous community.”
Mentor, 2024
Here’s a snapshot of how they bring stories, strategies, and meaningful change to each audience.
In arts and culture, I facilitate traditional hand drum teachings, perform original music, and lead healing initiatives. I have experience conducting research with a focus on ethical data collection and applying findings to develop inclusive programming. My passion is creating spaces that center marginalized voices.
I offer trauma-informed counselling, wellness resources, and advocate for equitable health services. I enjoy sharing education with others that are inclusive of Indigenous perspectives. My work also includes truth and reconciliation efforts, encouraging healing and empowerment for Indigenous and Black communities.
Speaker Highlight
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Folashade is guest in Tkaron:to, Treaty 13 Territory and the traditional home of the Anishinaabe, Haudenosaunee, Huron-Wendat, and Mississaugas of the Credit First Nation.
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