December 10 and 11, 2003

A virtual exhibition and exchange opportunity showcasing how Keewaytinook Okimakanak First Nations are using Information and Communication Technologies (ICTs) for socio-economic development tools for community members.

Kuh-ke-nah means "everybody" in Oji-Cree. The Chiefs of Keewaytinook Okimakanak wish to invite everybody to participate in the upcoming Smart Fair. Please mark this date on your calendar and plan to join us for this event.

There are any number of ways for everybody to participate ....

• Web casts will be running live over the internet for each of the sessions so everyone can learn about the work that has been completed.
  
• Facilitated on-line live chat and discussion forums will be hosted throughout the event so everyone can share their thoughts and provide their input into the sessions.
  
• Live video conferencing links will be available in various centres across Canada (and from Geneva - site of WSIS) for local teams of resource people to interact with everyone involved with this gathering.
  
• Linked e-centres located in each of the Keewaytinook Okimakanak First Nations with local resource people and displays will be available to showcase, demonstrate and share their stories and experiences with everybody.
  
• Coordinated hosting of this event from the ballroom at the Fairmont Hotel in downtown Winnipeg where participants and presenters will be able to experience this virtual event live and join others from around the world in learning more from First Nation leaders and community members about the applied use of ICTs.

During the past several years, Deer Lake, Fort Severn, Keewaywin, North Spirit Lake and Poplar Hill First Nations have used information and communications technologies (ICTs) to build new skills and transfer knowledge, reduce longstanding forms of cultural isolation and physical remoteness and enhance community well-being. Each year new education, health and cultural services have been implemented. And everyday the people living in the SMART First Nations are showing others how everyone really can be brought together through the use of ICTs.

As a lead up to next year’s Kuh-ke-nah International Indigenous Gathering (May 19 -21, 2004), the Smart Fair will provide an opportunity for everyone to learn about the work that has been completed and to look at all the work that remains. The Chiefs of Keewaytinook Okimakanak and community ICT champions will show how advanced e-learning, telemedicine and community development applications are being used to support their communities and organizations. On-line and on-site participants will have the opportunity to exchange views and explore new approaches and alliances.

Everyone is invited to join Keewaytinook Okimakanak on Wednesday evening (Dec 10) or throughout Thursday (Dec 11) for this event.