Joni Shawana

Joni Shawana (23 and single...aye...just playin') I am Ojibwe originally from Wikwemikong (aka WIKY) but been living in Toronto for 16 years now. I am also originally Biim Sko Nodin's Gurl. I had met RSO through my good friend Kevin in Wiky...which happened to be the time when RSO had snagged me in Wiky 2003, which we placed. That was my first time singing with them and there are more happy trips to come ahead (Whohooo!!) I not only sing backup at pow-wows (kickin 'dem kwe notes with Ahnung n Wassay)...but I jam out with various woman hand drum groups in the city. I have been singing since the age 13. Pretty much I had grown and developed my voice with my boyz - Biim Sko Nodin. There are times when I am asked to teach younger girls how to sing which is always an honour. I remember the times when my first teacher always put that time aside to teach, which is why I give back that time in return. Other then singin - I have graduated from College in Toronto and now working as a Supervisor at a Native Youth Homeless Shelter called Tumivut. I have a kind heart and show people that I care. I love dancing to reggae, going to klubs, playin pool....pretty much anything. Ohhh, a Hockey Sister too! Gotta love oldstyle n Contemp - Northern Cree, TBZ, Bear Creek, High Noon, Mandree...list can go on and on. I must thank other kwe notes that I've met along the way for always encouraging and showing their support. The Smoke Gurls (of Smoke Trails), Delia (we all know her), Kit (BC's first lady), Marie Gaudet (my first teacher), Wassay and Ahnung (Original Kwe Notes)....sorry if I forgot ur name. Anyhow...shouts to the RSO Crew in Soo, BSN here in Toronto, good friends Morningstar River, Poplar Singers..heck - just to everyone! Summer is here.....Pow-Wow Time is here -- BRING IT!!

Jonez