Erin (“Ellie”) Henderson, Blackfoot name “maahtsi-áápi-istaakíí” (Fine White Owl Woman), supports the important work of Mahegun Tails Inc. with her keen enthusiasm for culturally informed communications, written and visual storytelling, and all the things an administrative smarty-pants enjoys most!

Born in Lindsay, Ontario, Ellie is a second-generation immigrant on her mother’s side and a seventh-generation settler (of Scottish and English heritage) on her father’s side. Her early ancestors settled in Southern Ontario, near Prince Edward County—the traditional territory of the Anishnaabeg, Wendat and Haudenosaunee Peoples, and adjacent to the Kanien’keha:ka (Mohawk) community of Tyendinaga. Relocating to Calgary with her family in 2001, Ellie is grateful to call this beautiful place home, where she and her husband are raising their family today.

Always seeing herself in a role where she is helping people, Ellie attained a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from St. Mary’s University and a Non-Profit Management Certificate from Mount Royal University. Beginning her career eight years ago at Miskanawah, an Indigenous-led charity serving children, youth, and families—Ellie deeply values the unique and fulfilling path it has carried her on. She has dedicated her personal and professional pursuits to building relatives and serving the community in which she works.  “Hand to heart, I wish to acknowledge the families and circle of Elders that continually drive my work and hold my spirit.”