APTN PRESENTS LITTLE BIG COMMUNITY
LITTLE BIG COMMUNITY is a documentary series that explores positive community stories through the eyes of Indigenous people from across Turtle Island and beyond. Indigenous communities have been getting stronger, reconnecting with traditional practices and returning to the land. In each episode, two stories are told through the eyes of local changemakers, highlighting how community initiatives help people come together by uplifting one another and fostering a strong collective spirit.
LITTLE BIG COMMUNITY : SEASON FOUR TRAILER
SEASON FOUR
THIRTEEN EPISODES SHOWCASING COMMUNITIES ACROSS TURTLE ISLAND AND BEYOND
Discover the stories of the people working to create their own LITTLE BIG COMMUNITY.
Learn more about what makes each community unique!
EPISODE ONE : WHITEHORSE
Whitehorse is Yukon’s capital city and home to Indigenous communities from across the territory, including the Kwanlin Dün First Nation. Meet Steven and Alyssa, two leaders showing up for their community’s youth and shaping a brighter future for everyone.
EPISODE TWO : CARCROSS/TAGFISH FIRST NATION
Home to the Tlingit and Tagish peoples, Carcross is a small yet thriving community nestled in the snowcapped mountains of Yukon’s Southwest. Meet Donna and Gary, two leaders who, by believing in their dreams, are making a big impact on the people around them.
EPISODE THREE : SANTA FE
Traditionally known to the Tewa people as Oghá P'o'oge, Santa Fe is now a vibrant hub for Indigenous people from across the Southwest. Meet Amy and Corey, who, through comedy, fashion, and community involvement, are uplifting Indigenous people in Santa Fe.
EPISODE FOUR : SAN CARLOS APACHE TRIBE
Arizona’s San Carlos Apache Tribe is made up of the descendants of Gerónimo, the Apache leader who fought the government for their freedom. Meet Twila and Wendsler, two leaders fighting to preserve their traditions and keep their community’s spirit alive.
EPISODE FIVE : LISTUGUJ MI'GMAQ FIRST NATION
At the mouth of the Restigouche River on Québec’s Gaspé Peninsula, lies the small hamlet of Listuguj, Québec’s largest Mi’gmaw community. Meet Deven and Emma, two leaders preserving traditional cultural knowledge and advancing modern-day Mi’gmaw sovereignty.
EPISODE SIX : IQALUIT
Iqaluit, the capital of Nunavut, translates to "place of many fish" in Inuktitut, reflecting the region's abundant wildlife. Meet Aasivak and Laura, two influential leaders in their community on a mission to preserve Inuit traditions and culture.
EPISODE SEVEN : MICCOSUKEE TRIBE
The Miccosukee have cared for the Florida Everglades for centuries and have since developed a deep reciprocal relationship with the swamp. Meet Joseph and William, two Miccosukee men emphasizing the importance of the Everglades in their people’s cultural life.
EPISODE EIGHT : MONTRÉAL
Tiohtià:ke, or Montreal, is on the territory of the Kanien’kehá:ka people, but is now home to the largest Inuit community in Québec. Meet Arsaniq and Saali, two Inuit artists building meaningful connections with their community by teaching their culture.
EPISODE NINE : EASTERN BAND OF CHEROKEE INDIANS
The Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians in North Carolina descend from those who resisted forced removal during the Trail of Tears in 1831. Meet Levi and Laura, two Cherokee trailblazers leading efforts in cultural revitalization and community leadership.
EPISODE TEN : BLACKFEET NATION
Between the Great Plains and the Rockies, the Blackfeet, or Niitsitapi, have followed the buffalo and lived off the land for centuries. Meet Emmette and Lynn, two mentors enriching their community’s future through a deep bond with buffalo and horses.
EPISODE ELEVEN : OSOYOOS INDIAN BAND
At the very southern end of the Okanagan Valley lies the small community of Osoyoos, nestled among desert sage and blue lakes. Meet Francis and Taylor, two Syilx artists who are inspiring and blazing a trail for the future generations of Osoyoos.
EPISODE TWELVE : YUROK TRIBE
The Yurok have lived along the lower Klamath River and Pacific Coast since time immemorial — their culture deeply tied to the salmon. Meet Sammy and Brook, two Yurok leaders who are protecting the river that has sustained their community for generations.
EPISODE THIRTEEN : SAN FRANCISCO BAY AREA
Since the 1960s counterculture era and the Alcatraz Occupation, San Francisco has become a hub for Indigenous activism and cultural revival. Meet April and Manny, two leaders reaffirming Indigenous presence in the Bay Area while bettering their communities.
LITTLE BIG COMMUNITY : SEASON THREE TRAILER
SEASON THREE
THIRTEEN EPISODES SHOWCASING COMMUNITIES ACROSS TURTLE ISLAND AND BEYOND
Discover the stories of the people working to create their own LITTLE BIG COMMUNITY.
Learn more about what makes each community unique!
EPISODE ONE : DENVER
Denver, located at the edge of the Great Plains and the foot of the Rocky Mountains, has been a meeting place for the Arapaho, Cheyenne, and Ute peoples for millennia. Meet Warlance and Connor, who through basketball and skiing have fostered community and emphasized the Indigenous presence that has existed on this territory since time immemorial.
EPISODE TWO : NAVAJO NATION
The Navajo Nation, stretching across Arizona, Utah and New Mexico, is the largest reservation in the United States and boasts a rich history and a vibrant cultural heritage. Meet Franklin and Janice, two Diné leaders who are providing the support their community needs and creating solutions to the issues their people face.
EPISODE THREE : KITIGAN ZIBI
Situated at the confluence of the Désert and Gatineau rivers, Kitigan Zibi Anishinabeg is home to a small, yet vibrant community that has long fostered a strong social fabric. Meet Lisa and Mike, who in their own ways are using their knowledge to protect and educate Kitigan Zibi.
EPISODE FOUR : CONFEDERATED SALISH & KOOTENAI TRIBES OF THE FLATHEAD RESERVATION
The Flathead Reservation, nestled in the rugged beauty of Western Montana, is home to the Salish, Kootenai and Pend d'Oreilles peoples. Meet Gary and Aspen, two local educators passing on their cultural heritage and Salish language to the next generation.
EPISODE FIVE : SYDNEY
Gadigal Country, now known as Sydney, Australia, is the traditional home of the Dharawal and Dharug people, who continue to hold a deep connection to the lands and waters of their territory. Meet Kobie and Coral, two Aboriginal changemakers who, with music and outreach, are blazing a trail to a brighter future.
EPISODE SIX : CAIRNS
Cairns, located in the tropical rainforests of Far North Queensland, is known traditionally as Gimuy and remains deeply rooted in the culture and traditions of its Aboriginal peoples. Meet Pauline and Samantha, two women who are rekindling their connection to traditions and passing them on to future generations.
EPISODE SEVEN : BAD RIVER
The Bad River Reservation, located in northern Wisconsin, is home to a small Anishinaabe community where manoomin, or wild rice, continues to hold deep cultural significance for its people. Meet Dylan and Katie, whose preservation of manoomin symbolizes the community's resilience in maintaining their traditional ways.
EPISODE EIGHT : ESKASONI
Located on the eastern shore of Bras-D'Or Lake in Nova Scotia, Eskasoni First Nation is the largest Mi'kmaq community on Turtle Island and remains a vibrant and thriving hub for Indigenous people from around the region. Meet Barry and Nancy, two Mi'kmaq leaders who through boxing and pottery are inspiring youth in their community.
EPISODE NINE : CALGARY
Calgary, known in Blackfoot as Mohkinstsis, is a historic meeting place for the Blackfoot, Stoney Nakoda and Tsuut'ina people, who have long inhabited the region. Meet Rob and Sarah, two organizers who through science and music are creating a positive impact on the youth around them.
EPISODE TEN : LIMA
The coastal mega-city of Lima, with a population of over 11 million people, is home to thousands of Indigenous people from across Peru. Meet Olinda and Ebert, two Indigenous organizers contributing to the vibrancy of their communities in the city.
EPISODE ELEVEN : CUSCO
The Peruvian city of Cusco, with a name derived from the phrase qusqu wanka or “rock of the owl” in the Aymara language, is steeped in a deep Indigenous culture and a history that stretches back millennia. Meet Siwar and Javier, two local Indigenous activists using the mediums of film and music to raise awareness and educate those around them.
EPISODE TWELVE : AUCKLAND
Known as Tāmaki Makaurau in Te Reo Māori, Auckland has a rich history shaped by its Indigenous people who continue to play a vital role in the city’s cultural and political life. Meet TK and Kelly, two Māori women bringing the youth of their communities together and guiding them on a path of resilience, adaptation and renewal.
EPISODE THIRTEEN : ROTORUA
The town of Rotorua on Atotearoa’s North Island is known internationally for its rich Māori culture and geothermal hot pools set amongst dense redwood forests. Meet Taumata and Victoria, two Māori organizers who are fostering pride in Indigenous youth through graffiti and rugby.
LITTLE BIG COMMUNITY : SEASON TWO TRAILER
SEASON TWO
THIRTEEN EPISODES SHOWCASING COMMUNITIES ACROSS TURTLE ISLAND AND BEYOND
Discover the stories of the people working to create their own LITTLE BIG COMMUNITY.
Learn more about what makes each community unique!
EPISODE ONE : OTTAWA
Ottawa, located on unceded Anishinaabe Algonquin territory, hosts one of the largest urban Indigenous communities in the country. Meet Gabrielle and Amanda, who have made it their mission to inspire Indigenous youth and give them a sense of community since moving to the city.
EPISODE TWO : ALBUQUERQUE
Albuquerque, New Mexico, has long been an urban hub for Indigenous people from across the region, offering a variety of artistic and grassroots community organizations. Meet Marisa and Jir, two Indigenous leaders who are living their dreams and inspiring others by following their passions for martial arts and music.
EPISODE THREE : WARM SPRINGS
The Confederated Tribes of Warm Springs in Oregon’s central plateau comprises the Warm Springs, Wasco and Paiute peoples, who have called this region home since time immemorial. Meet Elke and Jefferson, who are reconnecting with their ancestral lands and fighting to have their rights recognized.
EPISODE FOUR : ONEIDA NATION OF THE THAMES
The Oneida Nation of the Thames are now turning back to their traditional practices, such as lacrosse, hunting and Indigenous foodways, to create a stronger and more resilient community. Meet Dayna and Ron, two siblings who have dedicated their lives to educating the next generation and collectively strengthening their community.
EPISODE FIVE : TULSA
Surrounded by multiple Indigenous nations, Tulsa has now become an urban hub for activism, organizing and cultural revival. Meet Nico and Nathalie, who, with cooking and tattooing, are reviving Cherokee practices and helping people heal.
EPISODE SIX : TUCSON
While integrating into life in the city can be difficult for many Indigenous people, organizations like the Native Music Coalition are trying to reach out to those in need and make it easier for them. Meet Jessica and Vince, who are creating new opportunities for youth and mobilizing Tucson’s Indigenous community.
EPISODE SEVEN : VANCOUVER
Surrounded by multiple Indigenous nations, Tulsa has now become an urban hub for activism, organizing and cultural revival. Meet Nico and Nathalie, who, with cooking and tattooing, are reviving Cherokee practices and helping people heal.
EPISODE EIGHT : O’AHU
For hundreds of years, the Island of O’ahu has been a central node in the Hawaiian archipelago and has long been nicknamed The Gathering Place. Meet Pōhaku and Kamanumailani, two Kānaka Maoli educators embracing the knowledge of their ancestors and living in tune with the ocean, guiding youth towards a more meaningful path.
EPISODE NINE : ISLAND OF HAWAI’I
Many Kānaka Maoli have resisted colonial encroachment and taken to the island's hinterland to reclaim an ancient way of life, where the people care for the land and the land cares for them. Meet Alika and Lacyann, who, by rekindling family traditions, have given purpose to their lives and inspired future generations.
EPISODE TEN : SAN DIEGO
Formerly a coastal people, progressive waves of colonialism and displacement moved the Kumeyaay inland, robbing them of their ocean-based traditions. However, some leaders are fighting back and creating space for Indigenous youth to learn about their people. Meet Stanley and Marc, who are reclaiming San Diego’s Indigenous identity and educating youth on Kumeyaay traditions.
EPISODE ELEVEN : SIKSIKA NATION
The Siksika Nation has called the lands of southern Alberta home since time immemorial. The nation has faced the many destructive legacies of colonialism, resulting in cultural alienation and mental health crises. Meet Vivian and Quintina, two inspiring women working to empower others through Indigenized higher education and innovative approaches to mental health.
EPISODE TWELVE : PINE RIDGE
Long-faced with mental health crises and generational trauma, some Pine Ridge community members are working to bring back traditional practices and give youth healthy coping mechanisms. Meet Kyle and Stanley, two Lakota men who, through skateboarding and horseback riding, create space for youth to learn about their traditions, recognize their self-worth and flourish.
EPISODE THIRTEEN : UNITED HOUMA NATION
The people of the United Houma Nation have long learnt to live off the land and thrive in the bayous of southern Louisiana. Meet Joshua and Jason, two brothers who are passing down ancestral practices to their children while also safeguarding their people’s collective Indigenous identity.
SEASON ONE
NINE EPISODES SHOWCASING NINE COMMUNITIES ACROSS TURTLE ISLAND
Discover the stories of the people working to create their own LITTLE BIG COMMUNITY.
Learn more about what makes each community unique!
LITTLE BIG COMMUNITY : SEASON ONE TRAILER
EPISODE ONE : KAHNAWÀ:KE
Kahnawà:ke, located outside Montreal, is a community working together, focusing on the importance of food sovereignty, sustainability and health. Meet John, Karina and Raven who are taking part in several initiatives to ensure the well-being of their community.
EPISODE TWO : MONTREAL LAKE CREE NATION
Montreal Lake Cree Nation located in northern Saskatchewan, knows that healing is a community effort. Meet Jarrett, Carol and Flair, who awaken the power of their people by going back to their traplines and land-based teachings.
EPISODE THREE : ENOCH CREE NATION
Enoch Cree Nation, located on the outskirts of Edmonton in Alberta is a community driven by a new generation of members. Meet Kenny, Jaizy and Taeja who through the programs they take part in or have initiated, are developing skills and finding their voice.
EPISODE FOUR : WIIKWEMKOONG UNCEDED TERRITORY
Wiikwemkoong, located on the eastern end of Manitoulin Island, in northern Ontario is a community focused on being self-reliant. Meet Annette, Lynn and Rolland, and Nicole, who through their own spiritual journeys are creating safe spaces for themselves and their community.
EPISODE FIVE : WINNIPEG
Winnipeg, located on Treaty One Territory, has the largest off-reserve, urban Indigenous and Metis population in Canada. Meet Kevin, Peatr and Caid who are helping their community through art, providing resources and compassion to those in need.
EPISODE SIX : CREE NATION OF WASKAGANISH
Waskaganish, located in Northern Quebec is a community building connections both on the land and online. Meet Jamie, Glen and David who are deeply devoted to finding the right recipe for healing and working through intergenerational traumas.
EPISODE SEVEN : SIOUX VALLEY DAKOTA NATION
Sioux Valley in Manitoba is the largest Dakota community in Canada and its history has fostered a culture of self-governance. Meet Koda, Helena and Travis, who have found healing through the power of animals, working on overcoming intergenerational trauma.
EPISODE EIGHT : TLA-O-QUI-AHT FIRST NATION
Vancouver Island is the ancestral land of the Nuu-chah-nulth people who have been stewarding both the land and sea since time immemorial. Meet Rachel, Hayden and Daniel who are working with the Tla-O-Qui-Aht First Nation helping youth reconnect with their territory.
EPISODE NINE : SERPENT RIVER FIRST NATION
Serpent River First Nation is on a mission to revitalize its waterways, focusing on environmental resilience. Meet Keegan, Quinn and Lee who are focusing on connecting youth with elders to share and learn about their territory, language and culture.
CONTACT US
Have a story about your own little big community?
Reach out and let us know! We would love to help you tell it.
LITTLE BIG TEAM : CREDITS
| Original Idea & Executive Producers | Angélique Richer Pepper O'Bomsawin |
| Directors | Pepper O'Bomsawin Erika Reyburn Vincenzo Giannelli |
| Writers | Pepper O'Bomsawin Vincenzo Giannelli |
| Content Producer | Vincenzo Giannelli |
| Researcher | Matias Brunet-Kirk |
| Assistant Director | Adèle Méthot Matias Brunet-Kirk |
| Post-Production Directors | Vincenzo Giannelli Erika Reyburn |
| Video Editors | Jonathan Verreault Lucas Villegas Fernando Lopez Escriva |
| Narrator | Soleil Launière |
| Original Music | Beatrice Deer Michael Felber Mark Wheaton |
| Post-Production Project Manager | Johannie Boucher |
| Production Supervisors | Malamo Savvas |
LITTLE BIG WEB TEAM
| Executive Producers | Pepper O'Bomsawin Angélique Richer |
| Producer | Mylène Bastonnais |
| Content Producer | Vincenzo Giannelli |
| Researchers | Matias Brunet-Kirk Malamo Savvas |
| Text | Vincenzo Giannelli Matias Brunet-Kirk |
| Social Media Manager | Stella Morrissette |
| Video Editor | Johannie Boucher |
| Web Design Production | François Trudeau Des souris et des hommes inc. |
| Original Idea & Executive Producers | Angélique Richer Pepper O'Bomsawin |
| Director | Pepper O'Bomsawin |
| Writers | Pepper O'Bomsawin Vincenzo Giannelli |
| Content Producer | Vincenzo Giannelli |
| Researcher | Matias Brunet-Kirk |
| Assistant Director | Adèle Méthot |
| Post-Production Director | Vincenzo Giannelli |
| Video Editors | Miriam Altounji Pierre Cloutier |
| Narrator | Soleil Launière |
| Original Music | Beatrice Deer Michael Felber Mark Wheaton |
| Post-Production Project Manager | Johannie Boucher |
| Production Supervisors | Emma Savas |
LITTLE BIG WEB TEAM
| Executive Producers | Pepper O'Bomsawin Angélique Richer |
| Producer | Mylène Bastonnais |
| Content Producer | Vincenzo Giannelli |
| Researcher | Matias Brunet-Kirk |
| Text | Vincenzo Giannelli Matias Brunet-Kirk |
| Production Supervisor | Emma Savas |
| Social Media Manager | Stella Morrissette |
| Video Editors | Johannie Boucher Jeffrey Gustin |
| Web Design Production | François Trudeau Des souris et des hommes inc. |
| Original Idea & Executive Producers | Angélique Richer Pepper O'Bomsawin |
| Director & Script Writer | Pepper O'Bomsawin |
| Story Producer & Assistant Director | Vincenzo Giannelli |
| Postproduction Directors | Vincenzo Giannelli Érika Reyburn |
| Narrator | Beatrice Deer |
| Researchers | Matias Brunet-Kirk |
| Video & Story Editors | Miriam Altounji Martin Bourgault Pierre Cloutier |
| Original Music | Beatrice Deer Michael Felber Mark Wheaton |
| Production Supervisors | Emma Savas |
LITTLE BIG WEB TEAM
| Executive Producers | Pepper O'Bomsawin Angélique Richer |
| Producer | Mylène Bastonnais |
| Digital Media Director | Vincenzo Giannelli |
| Story Producer & Assistant Director | Vincenzo Giannelli |
| Researcher | Matias Brunet-Kirk |
| Text | Matias Brunet-Kirk |
| Video Editor | Jeffrey Godin |
| Community Manager | Stella Morrissette |
| Web Design Production | François Trudeau Des souris et des hommes inc. |
| Digital Media Production Supervisor | Emma Savas |
| Original Idea & Executive Producers | Angélique Richer Pepper O'Bomsawin |
| Director & Script Writer | Pepper O'Bomsawin |
| Assistant Director | Vincenzo Giannelli |
| Postproduction Director & Script Advisor | Érika Reyburn |
| Narrator | Beatrice Deer |
| Researchers | Emma Savas Matias Brunet-Kirk |
| Video & Story Editor | Miriam Altounji |
| Original Music | Beatrice Deer Michael Felber Mark Wheaton |
| Production Supervisors | Julie Lapointe Emma Savas |
LITTLE BIG WEB TEAM
| Executive Producers | Pepper O'Bomsawin Angélique Richer |
| Producer | Mylène Bastonnais |
| Researchers | Emma Savas Matias Brunet-Kirk |
| Assistant Director & Set Photographer | Vincenzo Giannelli |
| Text | Matias Brunet-Kirk |
| Video Editor | Jonathan Verreault |
| Community Manager | Stella Morrissette |
| Web Design Production | François Trudeau Des souris et des hommes inc. |