focused on family violence and parenting, and has 12 years of experience as a Cultural Helper in acute health care, supporting patients, families, and staff through ceremony, cultural awareness, grief, loss, addictions, and the impact of intergenerational trauma.
Since 2006, Frank has studied trauma, neurophysiology, and somatic therapy, including training with the Canadian Foundation for Trauma Research and Education and Dr. Peter Levine’s Somatic Experiencing. He integrates this knowledge with cultural teachings to help people build capacity, connect to their physiological resources, and move toward health, resilience, and sustainable communities—one nervous system at a time.
Frank Shannon,
Haida Nation, Eagle Clan
Born on the Haida Nation, Eagle Clan, Frank lives in Edmonton, Alberta, and returns with his family to Old Massett, Haida Gwaii, British Columbia, to hunt, gather, and maintain strong cultural connections. He and his wife, Doris, value their children experiencing the resurgence of culture and supporting their Nation’s journey toward healing from past harms.
For over 26 years, Frank has shared and learned with First Nations communities in Edmonton. He has extensive experience in child and youth assessments, supporting self-regulation and resilience, and providing guidance to caregivers. Frank co-facilitated educational circles for men
Nicole McFadyen, MPCC
A six-generation Irish settler, born on the traditional territory of the Coast Salish and now living and working in the territory of the Syilx (Okanagan) people, Nicole is the Founder of Fireweed Learning & Consulting — a collaborative collective of consultants and Indigenous Knowledge Holders advancing culturally grounded, trauma-informed systems change.
With over 30 years of experience across child and family services, Nicole is a thought leader known for cross-ministry collaboration, strategic advocacy, and guiding organizations through meaningful implementation. Her work includes cultural programming, framework development, trauma- informed practice, large-scale event facilitation, and complex project management.
As a Master Practitioner in Clinical Counselling with advanced trauma training, Nicole integrates neurobiological approaches with relational leadership — grounded in the belief that one caring relationship can shift the trajectory of a life.
Core Collective
FOUNDER & CONSULTANT
Nicole McFadyen, MPCC
A six-generation Irish settler, born on the traditional territory of the Coast Salish and now living and working in the territory of the Syilx (Okanagan) people, Nicole is the Founder of Fireweed Consulting — a collaborative collective of consultants and Indigenous Knowledge Holders advancing culturally grounded, trauma-informed systems change.
With over 30 years of experience across child and family services, Nicole is a thought leader known for cross-ministry collaboration, strategic advocacy, and guiding organizations through meaningful implementation. Her work includes cultural programming, framework development, trauma- informed practice, large-scale event facilitation, and complex project management.
As a Master Practitioner in Clinical Counselling with advanced trauma training, Nicole integrates neurobiological approaches with relational leadership — grounded in the belief that one caring relationship can shift the trajectory of a life.
KNOWLEDGE HOLDER & CONSULTANT
Frank Shannon,
Haida Nation, Eagle Clan
Born on the Haida Nation, Eagle Clan, Frank lives in Edmonton, Alberta, and returns with his family to Old Massett, Haida Gwaii, British Columbia, to hunt, gather, and maintain strong cultural connections. He and his wife, Doris, value their children experiencing the resurgence of culture and supporting their Nation’s journey toward healing from past harms.
For over 18 years, Frank has shared and learned with First Nations communities in Edmonton. He has extensive experience in child and youth assessments, supporting self-regulation and resilience, and providing guidance to caregivers. Frank co-facilitated educational circles for men focused on family violence and parenting, and has 12 years of experience as a Cultural Helper in acute health care, supporting patients, families, and staff through ceremony, cultural awareness, grief, loss, addictions, and the impact of intergenerational trauma.
Since 2006, Frank has studied trauma, neurophysiology, and somatic therapy, including training with the Canadian Foundation for Trauma Research and Education and Dr. Peter Levine’s Somatic Experiencing. He integrates this knowledge with cultural teachings to help people build capacity, connect to their physiological resources, and move toward health, resilience, and sustainable communities—one nervous system at a time.
CREATIVE COMMUNICATIONS & EVENTS CONSULTANT
Mista Zaugg
With over 20 years of experience in communications, events, and organizational development, Mista brings a creative and strategic approach to every project. As a Creative Communications and Events Consultant, she draws on a wealth of hands-on experience supporting non-profits, Indigenous communities, and the Children’s Services sector. Mista is known for her ability to enhance organizational effectiveness through clear communication, collaborative engagement, and creative problem-solving.
Her background includes leading multi-channel communications strategies, planning and executing large-scale events, and designing compelling visual and written content for both print and digital platforms.
Mista has managed membership engagement, facilitated board and team alignment, and supported organizations through periods of growth and transition. Her resourcefulness, attention to detail, and commitment to relationship-building help clients achieve lasting results and sustainable success.
Mista Zaugg
With over 20 years of experience in communications, events, and organizational development, Mista brings a creative and strategic approach to every project. As a Creative Communications and Events Consultant, she draws on a wealth of hands-on experience supporting non-profits, Indigenous communities, and the Children’s Services sector. Mista is known for her ability to enhance organizational effectiveness through clear communication, collaborative engagement, and creative problem-solving.
Her background includes leading multi-channel communications strategies, planning and executing large-scale events, and designing compelling visual and written content for both print and digital platforms.
Mista has managed membership engagement, facilitated board and team alignment, and supported organizations through periods of growth and transition. Her resourcefulness, attention to detail, and commitment to relationship-building help clients achieve lasting results and sustainable success.