Take a seat at the digital campfire.
Hello my siblings. Welcome to the fire. The VA Network is a nonprofit streaming immersive experience that empowers voices of indigenous and first nations people, and their allies, promoting cultural preservation and fostering global connections through the power of storytelling, art, and community engagement.
We set out to create a platform that celebrates the power of storytelling to unite, inspire, and transform. We then took that platform, pulled it apart, set it on fire, and invited the world to sit with us and share story – Right Story. What we created was a digital campfire space, a new way to share story, rooted in place on native lands, a relational network fostering a global community that are dedicated to reshaping the future of content creation and consumption, redefining how we watch, share, and experience stories, ensuring that diverse voices are heard, represented, and celebrated, with the knowledge that indigenous thinking, ways of knowing, of being, have the power to save the world.
Welcome to the campfire.
stories from the spaces in between
All knowledge is held within our web of relationships. Knowledge is not an isolated or static; it is a dynamic, living force that exists in the spaces between people and their interactions. It is stored in the stories we share, the experiences we hold, and the connections we nurture.
It is this interconnectedness of existence and the critical role of storytelling in preserving and transmitting knowledge, embedded in the narratives passed down through generations for tens of thousands of years. These stories are not just repositories of information; they are living records of the wisdom, values, and perspectives of a community. Of knowledge., and of what can be known.
This space, is as it is called in Samoan culture, is the VĀ. The sacred space between all things. The VA is the space in between, not empty space, not space that separates, but space that relates, that holds separate entities and things together in the unity that is all. It is this space in-between where all knowledge is held. A space that holds all entities together A relationship connection, affiliation boundaries difference seperation, space distance responsibility obligation, a way of being. It is this space, the stories in between, that we share.
Sit by the fire & share good story
Let me bring you into relation by this fire here, so you can warm yourself by the fire for a minute. The approach here is different, we are making embassy, us two. The VA Network digital campfire is a dynamic platform that goes beyond what we think of as traditional media. We are relational network built on the principles of reciprocity and engagement in the issues that truly matter. That can change the future. Save it, before its too late.
Our journey begins with sharing stories, and this digital spirit camp offers a space for voices to resonate and narratives to ignite change. The VA Network is a global force for good, and we invite you to be a part of this transformative journey. Discover the start of what the VA Network offers, how we go beyond providing a space to share story, but to connect, to help, to grow as one as we continue to stoke the fire, and warm our spirits.
immerse in curated collections
Collections are our carefully crafted anthologies, weaving together stories and knowledge from indigenous cultures worldwide. These works are the vibrant threads of our global community’s collective storytelling, inviting you to explore, discover, and immerse yourself in the transformative power of narrative.
focus on spotlight playlists
spotlight colections are made by the advisory board, bringin togehter films series voices that are about an important topic, bringing all stories beside each toher, for the turh is in the ggreate,
explore on native lands
Stories come alive on the map, rooted in the heart of native lands. Our interactive map search is more than just a geographical tool; it’s a journey through the cultural tapestry of Indigenous peoples. With every click, you’ll delve into narratives deeply connected to the lands they hail from, discovering the rich heritage and wisdom of Indigenous communities across the globe. It’s an immersive way to explore, connect, and engage with stories that transcend borders and ignite your sense of wonder. Come, embark on a voyage that bridges the past, present, and future, as we celebrate the profound relationship between storytelling and the lands that inspire them
make a real world impact
donate and make a real world impact. be able to donate directly to the causes and arts that you want to support,making you an active participant in real world change in community, not just a spectactator.
be a part of the story
Stories come alive on the map, rooted in the heart of native lands. Our interactive map search is more than just a geographical tool; it’s a journey through the cultural tapestry of Indigenous peoples. With every click, you’ll delve into narratives deeply connected to the lands they hail from, discovering the rich heritage and wisdom of Indigenous communities across the globe. It’s an immersive way to explore, connect, and engage with stories that transcend borders and ignite your sense of wonder. Come, embark on a voyage that bridges the past, present, and future, as we celebrate the profound relationship between storytelling and the lands that inspire them
purchase with purpose in the marketplace
shop to give. purchase with purpose.Inspired by ancient paths of connection, this initiative bridges traditions and markets, offering unique Indigenous products and knowledge in relational currency. The Trade Routes Initiative takes the essence of community-made products and extends their reach to the wider world through the platform associated with the films they’re featured in. This symbiotic relationship not only offers these remarkable products a global stage but also channels a significant portion of the proceeds back to the Indigenous communities that create them. By intertwining commerce with storytelling, we cultivate a sustainable loop of support that preserves cultural heritage, empowers local economies, and enriches the experiences of both creators and consumers.
Learn More About The Trade Routes Experiement.
collaborate with the collective
A dynamic and expansive database that celebrates Indigenous media makers from around the globe. This visionary platform is more than just a space for sharing creators and their work; it is a powerful force that amplifies narrative sovereignty and preserves the cultural vibrancy of Indigenous communities.
By providing a platform for exposure, collaboration, and networking, it opens up opportunities for professional growth, increased visibility, and access to potential clients, investors, and supporters. This, in turn, can lead to economic benefits for Indigenous individuals and communities.
Learn More About Creative Collective.
attend the one fire festival
A 3 Day immersive experiential Arts Festival diverse cultures unite around the a real campfire on native lands, sharing important story that has to be heard.
Together, we fan the flames of cultural vibrancy and mutual understanding.
Learn More About The One Fire Arts Festival.
Talked About Around the World
We Are All Stories.
By recognizing that knowledge is relational, communal, we must reevaluate our approach to learning and understanding, knowing and being. It emphasizes the importance of actively engaging with others, listening to their stories, and respecting the diverse perspectives that collectively enrich our understanding of the world. The true richness of knowledge lies in the connections we forge and the stories we co-create with one another.
Our mission is to provide respectful, and genuine space where you can discover, share, and experience content that truly matters. We are dedicated to redefining the future of content consumption, shaping the way we watch, share, and experience stories. We prioritize content that has the power to change the way we think, act, and move forward.
By embracing indigenous ways of knowing, we can forge a sustainable future that respects and safeguards the diversity of life on Earth. We invite you to come sit with us, to bring your stories to the campfire, to sit side by side in consensus building intercontinental yarn -for the truth does not sit with one way, but all ways, for the truth is in the aggregate.
This project is about more than the content, but about the ways of thinking, and the ways of being; for a space such as this should not just grow knowledge, but increase what can be known.
Explore story in place On Native Lands
Right story that we share is connected to the place it comes from, drawn from the living landscapes within a framework of profound ancestral and personal relationships. Mapped as stories of song athat circle the globe. These stories are all connected to each other, and our earth. Which sets VA apart from anything else out there, because everything here is right story, rooted in place.
These stories are not just repositories of information; they are living records of the wisdom, values, and perspectives of community.
The VA Network aims to retrieve, honor, and elevate this ancient knowledge and wisdom, bringing it to the forefront as a pathway forward. The solution to all of the problems in the world today cannot be solved by the system that created it. The information we are all desperately searching for is not found in textbooks or encyclopedias but is instead embedded in the narratives passed down through generations.
By embracing indigenous ways of knowing, we can forge a sustainable future that respects and safeguards the diversity of life on Earth. Together, let us celebrate the richness of Indigenous cultures, amplify their voices, and learn from their ancestral frameworks of knowledge fostering a relationship of reciprocity and reverence with all living beings, living in harmony and interconnectedness under the law of the land guide our actions and shape our future, and bring us back to our role as custodial species.
Embodying Indigenous Principles: The Path of Nonprofit Commitment
We have chosen to embody the principles of Indigenous knowledge systems and ways of being by operating as a nonprofit organization. Our decision is rooted in the principles of reciprocity, interconnectedness, and giving back to the community.
Our choice to be a nonprofit organization is deeply rooted in Indigenous knowledge systems and ways of being. By embodying these principles, we can foster reciprocity, interconnectedness, and collective well-being. Together, we can create a more inclusive, harmonious, and sustainable future for all.
reciprocity
Reciprocity: Indigenous cultures emphasize the importance of reciprocity, where giving and receiving are interconnected. As a nonprofit, we strive to honor this principle by giving back to the communities we serve. We aim to create positive change, support cultural preservation, and empower Indigenous communities through our initiatives.
holistic well being
Indigenous knowledge systems recognize the interconnection between all beings and the environment. By operating as a nonprofit, we prioritize the well-being of individuals, communities, and the natural world. Our focus is on creating holistic and sustainable solutions that benefit everyone involved, fostering a sense of harmony and balance.
community empowerment
Indigenous cultures value community empowerment and collective well-being. As a nonprofit, we aim to uplift and empower Indigenous communities by providing resources, support, and opportunities. We actively involve community members in decision-making processes, ensuring that their voices are heard and their needs are addressed.
Stewardship of Resources
Indigenous cultures have a deep respect for the Earth and its resources. As a nonprofit, we embrace responsible stewardship by utilizing our resources effectively and ethically. We prioritize the allocation of funds, donations, and support towards initiatives that have a meaningful and sustainable impact on the communities and causes we serve.
intergenerational knowledge
Indigenous knowledge is often passed down through generations, preserving wisdom, traditions, and cultural heritage. By operating as a nonprofit, we honor this intergenerational knowledge by dedicating our efforts to cultural preservation and the well-being of future generations. We strive to create a legacy of positive change and sustainable practices.
lore of the land
Our nonprofit status isn’t just a legal choice; it’s a reflection of the profound lore of the land. Rooted in Indigenous wisdom, it aligns with the timeless principles of reciprocity, community care, and interconnectedness, as dictated by the land’s teachings. This choice isn’t merely administrative; it’s a profound commitment to honoring and preserving the sanctity of the Earth and its communities.
the affect on a global community
Amidst the digital expanse of the VA Network lies a profound commitment that surpasses the realm of mere entertainment. We firmly believe in the transformative power of stories – stories that are more than narratives; they are vessels of empathy, catalysts for understanding, and sparks of change. Our purpose is rooted in the profound influence these stories can have on our collective consciousness.
Cultural Sensitivity and Authenticity:
We prioritize content that demonstrates cultural sensitivity, authenticity, and respect for Indigenous communities. Our team, including Indigenous advisors and cultural experts, carefully reviews each submission to ensure it aligns with the principles of accurate representation and cultural integrity.
Indigenous Voices & Perspectives
We strive to amplify Indigenous voices and perspectives, providing a platform for Indigenous creators and storytellers to share their narratives and experiences. We prioritize content created by Indigenous artists, filmmakers, podcasters, and writers, ensuring that their stories are told from their own unique perspectives.
Narrative Sovereignty & Empowerment:
Just as the fire’s dance shapes its flames, the Fire Protocol empowers storytellers with narrative sovereignty. We prioritize respecting the diverse perspectives and authentic voices of our creators, while ensuring that their stories are shared ethically and accurately.We value narrative sovereignty, empowering Indigenous communities to shape their own narratives and control how their stories are shared. We work closely with Indigenous creators and communities to ensure their voices are heard, and their stories are accurately and respectfully represented.
Collaborative Partnerships
We actively seek partnerships with Indigenous organizations, nonprofits, and cultural institutions to source content and ensure its authenticity and cultural relevance. Collaborating with Indigenous communities allows us to access a wealth of knowledge, expertise, and diverse perspectives that enrich the content on our platform.
Ethical Practices & Informed Consent
Respecting the principles of ethical storytelling, we prioritize obtaining informed consent from individuals and communities featured in the content shared on our platform. We work closely with creators to ensure they have obtained proper permissions and permissions to share the content while respecting privacy and cultural protocols.
Peer Review & Advisory Board
To maintain the highest standards of content selection and approval, we engage in a peer review process and seek guidance from our Indigenous advisory board. The board consists of respected individuals from various Indigenous backgrounds, who provide invaluable insights and perspectives in evaluating the content’s cultural relevance and appropriateness.
the affect on a global community
Amidst the digital expanse of the VA Network lies a profound commitment that surpasses the realm of mere entertainment. We firmly believe in the transformative power of stories – stories that are more than narratives; they are vessels of empathy, catalysts for understanding, and sparks of change. Our purpose is rooted in the profound influence these stories can have on our collective consciousness.
Cultural Sensitivity and Authenticity:
We prioritize content that demonstrates cultural sensitivity, authenticity, and respect for Indigenous communities. Our team, including Indigenous advisors and cultural experts, carefully reviews each submission to ensure it aligns with the principles of accurate representation and cultural integrity.
Indigenous Voices & Perspectives
We strive to amplify Indigenous voices and perspectives, providing a platform for Indigenous creators and storytellers to share their narratives and experiences. We prioritize content created by Indigenous artists, filmmakers, podcasters, and writers, ensuring that their stories are told from their own unique perspectives.
Narrative Sovereignty & Empowerment:
Just as the fire’s dance shapes its flames, the Fire Protocol empowers storytellers with narrative sovereignty. We prioritize respecting the diverse perspectives and authentic voices of our creators, while ensuring that their stories are shared ethically and accurately.We value narrative sovereignty, empowering Indigenous communities to shape their own narratives and control how their stories are shared. We work closely with Indigenous creators and communities to ensure their voices are heard, and their stories are accurately and respectfully represented.
Collaborative Partnerships
We actively seek partnerships with Indigenous organizations, nonprofits, and cultural institutions to source content and ensure its authenticity and cultural relevance. Collaborating with Indigenous communities allows us to access a wealth of knowledge, expertise, and diverse perspectives that enrich the content on our platform.
Ethical Practices & Informed Consent
Respecting the principles of ethical storytelling, we prioritize obtaining informed consent from individuals and communities featured in the content shared on our platform. We work closely with creators to ensure they have obtained proper permissions and permissions to share the content while respecting privacy and cultural protocols.
Peer Review & Advisory Board
To maintain the highest standards of content selection and approval, we engage in a peer review process and seek guidance from our Indigenous advisory board. The board consists of respected individuals from various Indigenous backgrounds, who provide invaluable insights and perspectives in evaluating the content’s cultural relevance and appropriateness.