معرفی
Ela Smith is a Sessional Lecturer at the Factor-Inwentash Faculty of Social Work, University of Toronto. She holds a Master of Social Work with a focus on the Indigenous Field of Study from Wilfrid Laurier University, a Bachelor of Arts from the University of Waterloo, and an Early Childhood Education diploma from Humber College. As a Registered Social Worker (RSW), she brings extensive experience in Indigenous mental health, advocacy, and curriculum development.
- MSW, Wilfrid Laurier University (Indigenous Field of Study)
- BA, University of Waterloo
- ECE Diploma, Humber College
Her research and teaching are grounded in holistic, trauma-informed, and Indigenous-centered approaches. She emphasizes Miskasowin—a foundational Anishinaabe concept of self-location and identity—as a framework for critical reflection in social work practice. Her work centers on decolonizing pedagogy, Indigenous curriculum development, and empowering practitioners through cultural safety and relational accountability.
While no recent publications are listed, her professional focus suggests sustained engagement with Indigenous knowledge systems, mental health advocacy, and transformative social work education. Her career reflects a deep commitment to equity, community-based practice, and truth and reconciliation in social services.
Ela has held significant leadership roles, including Executive Director at White Owl Native Ancestry and Program Director at the Ontario Federation of Indigenous Friendship Centers. She also served as an Indigenous Curriculum Development Specialist at Mohawk College, contributing to the integration of Indigenous perspectives in post-secondary education.
She is actively contributing to the academic mission of the Faculty of Social Work through teaching and community-engaged scholarship, with no indication of retirement or former status.
