Aboriginal Dance Creates a Sense of Belonging 

Munira Nagji, who is originally from Tanzania, was looking for an interesting way for her 10-year-old son Zafir to learn more about his community. 

 “I’ve always been attracted to the First Nation’s culture.”  

In a local community centre, they found a brochure on TeenZone.  

Zafir and his Mom were immediately drawn to Eagle’s Back Pow Wow Dance.  

“Their traditions are really interesting,” explains Zafir.

“I saw a hoop dancer once and I thought the colours and the footwork were amazing, and I like the drumming...it’s loud,” explains Zafir. 

 “I was so excited about having the chance to learn how to dance.  From the first day, I felt at home.  Everyone made me feel welcome. I made quite a few friends”

The Eagles Back Pow Wow program offers kids the chance to learn about Aboriginal culture and challenge their comfort zone through dance.  

“I see the kids change as they go through the program,” explains Lyle Gaskell, teacher with Eagle’s Back Pow Wow.  They put on their traditional attire and they stand taller...they gain a sense of pride, confidence and achievement.”  

Munira is proud of what her son has achieved, and she does everything she can to help. 

Last year she spent countless hours sewing Zafir’s outfit for the grass dance with the help of Aboriginal elders and the other parents whose kids are in the program.  

“We all got to know each other really well and I’m looking forward to passing on the knowledge I learned to new parents in the fall.”

Although Zafir and his mother belong to the Ismaili Muslim community, there are some beliefs that transcend all cultures. “The Aboriginal culture is all about respect, for your elders and for the environment, and for sharing with others through celebrations such as feasts and dancing.”  

Zafir is sharing his passion for Aboriginal dancing.  This July he danced in front of a crowd of 5,000 that attended the Ismaili Muslim Community's annual Stampede Breakfast.

“It’s wonderful that he has found a place that has accepted him and makes him happy, he walks about the house doing the dance steps – I don’t even think he notices he is doing it,” explains Munira.  

Zafir sums up his attraction to the Pow Wow dancing offered through TeenZone, “It’s just so much fun”.