I am an MSW, RSW, a traditional Indigenous hand drummer, singer-songwriter, public speaker, and workshop facilitator.
My work is rooted in Indigenous knowledge systems, relationship-building, and holistic wellness practices.
With experience across counselling, facilitation, evaluation, and education, I aim to uplift and empower Indigenous and Black communities through care, connection, and creativity.
• MSW, RSW • Indigenous Wellness Counsellor • Drum Carrier • Artist • Facilitator • Speaker
• MSW, RSW • Indigenous Wellness Counsellor • Drum Carrier • Artist • Facilitator • Speaker
About Me
Tansi, Hi!
I am Folashade Kortee, a proud Métis-Cree (roots from Cumberland House, Saskatchewan) and Nigerian woman. I hold a Master’s degree in Social Work specializing in Indigenous Trauma and Resiliency from the University of Toronto, and a Bachelor’s degree in Kinesiology and Health Sciences from York University. As a registered social worker (OCSWSSW) and Indigenous Wellness Counsellor and Coordinator at the University of Toronto, I dedicate my professional life to supporting Indigenous wellness through culturally grounded, trauma-informed approaches.
My work is deeply informed by my cultural background and lived experience. As a traditional hand drum carrier, artist, singer-songwriter, and workshop facilitator, I integrate Indigenous knowledge systems and creative expression into everything I do. I am passionate about creating spaces where Indigenous and Black voices are centered, healing is nurtured, and cultural reconnection is celebrated.
My Story
I was raised by my father in Toronto Community Housing as a second-generation Canadian. Growing up, I often found myself navigating spaces where I was the only Indigenous and Black person - whether in classrooms, lifeguarding jobs, or academic institutions. These experiences of cultural isolation, systemic barriers, and identity fragmentation deeply shaped my desire to advocate for marginalized voices and create inclusive spaces.
In 2018, I joined a hand drumming group for Indigenous women and found not just community, but a part of myself I didn’t realize I was missing. Since then, hand drumming, ceremony, and music have become vital parts of how I live, heal, and support others.
A transformative moment in my life was reconnecting my mother - a Sixties Scoop survivor - with my maternal grandmother. This powerful reunion deepened my understanding of the importance of cultural reconnection and healing intergenerational trauma. It has inspired me to help others navigate their own journeys of cultural reclamation.
My Philosophy & Values
At the heart of my work is a commitment to wellness, culture, advocacy, and healing. I believe that true healing comes from honoring cultural identity and community connection, and that mental health conversations must be decolonized to reflect Indigenous and Black worldviews.
I carry my roles as a Registered Social Worker, drum carrier, and artist with responsibility, integrating these teachings into everything I do.
My values are grounded in:
Cultural Integrity – Honoring Indigenous traditions and ways of knowing
Community Care – Creating accessible, inclusive, and affirming spaces
Empowerment – Supporting youth and adults in reclaiming identity and voice
Advocacy – Challenging systemic inequities in mental health and education
I’m continually inspired by those I work with - students, Elders, collaborators, and community members - and strive to ensure that my work is rooted in relationship, accountability, and love for the communities I serve.
Services / Work With Me
I’m passionate about creating spaces that honor Indigenous and Black experiences through wellness, education, and creativity. Drawing on both clinical knowledge and personal journey, I offer engaging workshops, presentations, and performances that encourage healing, connection, and empowerment. Take a look at my core services below - I’d love to explore how we can work together to support meaningful growth and community!
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I facilitate interactive and accessible education and dialogue that decolonize mental health conversations and uplift Indigenous knowledge systems. Topics include:
Indigenous models of wellness and community care
Decolonizing trauma and healing through cultural reconnection
Land-based healing and the importance of ceremony, drumming, and song
Creating safer spaces for Black and Indigenous wellness in academic and professional settings
Whether you're seeking an engaging workshop, a keynote speaker, or a collaborative panelist, I bring lived experience, clinical insight, and cultural grounding to every space I enter.
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As a traditional hand drum carrier, I lead circles, facilitation sessions, and workshops that share the teachings and cultural significance of hand drumming. This includes hand drum making workshops, where participants learn to build their own drums while exploring the deep cultural meaning behind the practice.
These sessions cultivate connection to culture, ceremony, and community wellness.
Whether in-person or virtual, I create inclusive spaces where participants can engage with Indigenous traditions in meaningful ways.
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I perform as a singer-songwriter, sharing original music inspired by experiences of healing and resilience. With my debut single Fola - Alive released and more music in progress, I bring heartfelt performances that connect and inspire.
I also facilitate creative workshops blending music, storytelling, and cultural expression to empower participants. Through live and virtual performances and meaningful collaborations with community organizations, I strive to amplify marginalized voices and celebrate cultural identity.
From the 2024 'Black and Indigenous Wellness Series' by Spirit of Kinship collective, which I co-founded
Contact Me
Want to collaborate? Just share a few details, and I'll be in touch soon. I look forward to connecting with you!
