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WHO WE ARE
WIPCE grew out of the life experience and determination of Dr. Verna J. Kirkness. In the early days, she often said the only Indigenous “resource” she had was herself. From a young age, she knew she wanted to be a teacher — and she became one who students never forgot because she truly cared about them.
Although she never attended residential school, she chose to teach in one so she could understand the experience firsthand. It was difficult, and she faced strong pressure to leave, but she returned to show she wouldn’t be pushed out. While teaching, she saw how harmful and prejudice the curriculum was and that pushed her to take action.
Working with the Manitoba Indian Brotherhood, she helped review history and social studies textbooks to remove discriminatory content. This work grew into a lifelong commitment to improving Indigenous education across Canada and around the world.
From her vision and determination, WIPCE was born — a global gathering where Indigenous peoples can share knowledge, support one another, and shape their own educational futures.
WIPCE INTERNATIONAL COUNCIL (WIC)
The WIPCE International Council was created to uphold the integrity and long-term vision of the World Indigenous Peoples’ Conference on Education (WIPCE). The movement began in 1987, when more than 1,500 Indigenous educators and leaders from 17 countries gathered in Vancouver, Canada. That first conference became a defining moment—a space to share knowledge, discuss shared needs, and strengthen global connections among Indigenous peoples.
Established in 2008 by former conference organizers, the WIPCE International Council now guides the ongoing movement. The Council oversees the bidding and selection process for future host locations and works closely with local host committees to ensure each conference reflects the highest standards of Indigenous-led education and exchange.
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