The Courage Within
Author Shelby Lynn Melting Tallow (in the ribbon skirt) with panelists (from left) Rod Stagg, Lexi Rensing, Sarah Jacknife, Ted Bauer, and Anne Harding
About the Author
Shelby Lynn Melting Tallow, Poksipiita’ki (Little Eagle Woman) in Blackfoot is a third-year Public Relations major at Mount Royal University. She has contributed to Indigenous engagement initiatives at Forum Community Relations Ltd. and ENMAX Energy, developed strategic media for the Honoring Traditions and Reconciliation Society, and facilitated community engagement sessions with Dialogue Partners. Shelby’s work has been published in The Western Communication Report (2025 edition), recognizing her emerging voice in ethical and culturally grounded communications.
Her path into the field began with the Indigenous University Bridging Program at MRU in 2020 and was strengthened by mentorship from Michelle Fournie, MEd, BCMM., through her involvement at Forward Summit West 2024. Shelby also completed the StepUp to Success program with MCG Careers in 2016, which sparked her passion for professional development. Coming from a family rooted in both Indigenous arts and academia, she is committed to using communications as a tool for cultural connection, advocacy, and storytelling.
I was approached by the divine Anne Harding from Forum Community Relations Ltd. to attend The Calgary Chamber of Commerce’s Engagement Forum for National Indigenous Peoples Day this year.
I was filled with an overwhelming sense of joy and appreciation. I am an Indigenous woman in
the Public Relations Program at Mount Royal University, so this was an opportunity I had to
accept. I am naturally drawn to how people in the corporate stratosphere approach Indigenous
Relations and representation. The spirit of truth and reconciliation was felt as the venue was
being held on sacred grounds at The Confluence Historic Site & Parkland (formerly Fort
Calgary). I can attest that the future looked promising for alliances with Canadian First Nation-Metis companies.
I have seen that there is an unspoken willingness to approach ceremonial practices and
Indigenous people with caution and care, however, there tends to be an overwhelming learning
curve that is deeply rooted in colonialists' narrative. My community is comprised of those who
lack access to the resources that are necessary to become the natural leaders that they are.
However, opportunities such as these allow for the building of courage within.
The fire within was ignited when I was first introduced to the importance of Elders within
Indigenous cultures. For example, Elders in my community are held to the highest regard.
These are the people that are the roots and lifelines of our Nations. It is through their
knowledge, wisdom, and guidance that we continue to carry on our teachings. When I see
Elders, I see the strength of those who came before me and the sacrifices they made so that I
may live.
When I attended the Calgary Chamber of Commerce’s Engagement Forum for National
Indigenous Peoples Day, I was overjoyed to see Elders being recognized. It was truly a moving
experience to be in their presence. The spirit of reconciliation was alive in that room. I knew
that I was standing on the shoulders of giants who came before me. It was a reminder that I
too must do my part to ensure that the path is easier for those who come after me.
One thing that stood out to me during this event was the recognition of Indigenous youth.
Representation matters, and seeing young people like me being recognized for our contributions
to the community is empowering. It made me realize that my voice matters, and that I have the
power to influence change.
I was also struck by the willingness of corporations to engage in dialogue with Indigenous
communities. It is not easy to have these conversations, but they are necessary. The courage to
face our past and work towards a better future is something that we must all strive for.
As an Indigenous woman, I have faced many challenges. I have experienced racism and
discrimination, and I have seen the effects of colonization on my people. But I have also seen
the resilience and strength of my community. We are survivors, and we are thriving despite the
odds.
Attending this event gave me hope. Hope that one day, we will live in a society where
Indigenous people are treated with the respect and dignity that we deserve. Hope that our voices
will be heard, and our contributions will be valued. Hope that the courage within us will
continue to grow and inspire others.
The courage within is not just about me. It is about all of us. It is about the strength of our
communities, the wisdom of our Elders, and the resilience of our youth. It is about standing tall
in the face of adversity and never giving up.
I am grateful to have had the opportunity to attend the Calgary Chamber of Commerce’s
Engagement Forum for National Indigenous Peoples Day. It was an experience that I will carry
with me for the rest of my life. It reminded me of the importance of courage, and the power of
community.
The courage within is what will carry us forward. It is what will help us to heal from the
wounds of the past and build a brighter future. It is what will inspire us to keep going, even
when the road is tough.
I believe that the courage within is the key to reconciliation. It is what will bring us together
and help us to create a society that is just and equitable for all. It is what will ensure that the
voices of Indigenous people are heard and respected.
The courage within is what makes us strong. It is what gives us hope. And it is what will lead us
to a better tomorrow.
-Shelby Lynn Melting Tallow
