Jack Manidokaa Bradley’s journey from his early years as a Lambton Kent District School Board student to his current work with Atlohsa Family Healing Services is a testament to his commitment to both his Anishinaabe heritage and his desire to make a meaningful difference in his community. A graduate of John McGregor Secondary School, Jack’s path has a strong academic and professional trajectory that has already made an impact on Indigenous communities.
Currently, Jack works with Atlohsa Family Healing Services as part of the Giwetashkad Indigenous Homelessness Strategic Plan, an initiative grounded in community-driven, Indigenous-led, and culture-based engagement. The plan addresses the critical issue of Indigenous homelessness in London, Ontario, where Indigenous people, though only 2.6% of the city's population, make up 30% of its homeless population. The Giwetashkad Plan is unique in its focus on Indigenous experiences of homelessness and its emphasis on local knowledge, harm reduction, and cultural practices. Jack works to support this transformative approach, which aims to confront Indigenous homelessness through actionable change rooted in Indigenous ways of knowing and leadership.
Before joining Atlohsa, Jack’s professional journey included his experience at Health Canada, where he served as a Policy Analyst in the Office of Indigenous Affairs and Engagement. In this role, Jack worked on policy research, actively engaged with national Indigenous organizations, and contributed to ministerial briefings. While grateful for his experience in the federal sphere, Jack ultimately chose to leave the governmental environment in favour of working with an Indigenous-led organization, seeking a more direct and impactful way to create transformative change rooted in Indigenous sovereignty.
Jack’s academic journey was marked by both scholarly excellence and leadership. As a graduate of Western University, he earned an Honours Specialization in English Language & Literature, with a thesis focused on Niizh-Manidoowag (Two-Spirited) Indigenous identities in modern Turtle Island literature. His studies also included key courses in Critical Race Theory, Feminist Theory, Environmental Justice, and Indigenous Literatures of Turtle Island.
Beyond academics, Jack demonstrated leadership at Western as the elected President of the Arts & Humanities Students’ Council, and he was awarded the prestigious Beryl Ivey Scholarship, valued at $72,000, which significantly mitigated the barriers to higher education as the first in his immediate family to attend university. Jack’s time at Western was foundational not only to his academic development but also to his commitment to Indigenous advocacy.
In addition to his work in Indigenous community care, Jack is a talented emerging artist, blending his passions for photography and cultural expression. He was recently selected as one of the 12 Indigenous artists to be featured in the Red Visions exhibit at Casa Loma in Toronto, running from January 13th to February 14th, 2025. This exhibit celebrates the cultural heritage and identities of Indigenous artists, showcasing works that merge traditional elements with modern techniques. Jack will be exhibiting his portrait projects: Ojibwe Odyssey, Medicine Wheel, and Sky Woman.
For Jack, art is a way to engage with his heritage and to uplift the diverse narratives of Indigenous communities through visual expression. His Sky Woman portrait series, in particular, embodies the significance of Indigenous storytelling through a contemporary lens. Jack is dedicated to uplifting fellow First Nations creatives. This series is also an example of his collaborative work that not only highlights his own artistic journey but also elevates the voices and talents of other Indigenous artists. Every contributor and designer involved with Sky Woman is a First Nations artist.
Reflecting on his time at John McGregor Secondary School, Jack credits several key teachers for their support and guidance, including Mme. Sandra Rodriguez, who was instrumental in fostering the Gender & Sexuality Alliance and supporting students' well-being, and Ms. Regan, the guidance counselor who, alongside Mme. Rodriguez, encouraged him to pursue the Western National Scholarship. Teachers like Jenn McQuade, who nurtured his early interest in photography, and Karen Locke and Devin Pearson, who supported his academic and personal growth, were also central to his development. Jack reflects that the positive influence of these educators showed him how impactful the right mentors can be in a student’s life.
Looking ahead, Jack plans to continue balancing his two passions: Indigenous community care and his work as a fashion photographer. He is committed to both fields and intends to pursue further education through McMaster University’s Indigenous Studies Master’s program, where he aims to combine theory with direct community practice.
Jack Manidokaa Bradley is a shining example of how an individual can combine their passion for culture, advocacy, and art to create a lasting impact. From his roots at John McGregor Secondary School to his current work with Atlohsa Family Healing Services and his contributions to the Indigenous arts community, Jack is on a path that will continue to inspire and transform.