Elvie Stonechild is the creator and voice behind Regina’s Indigenous Vibes an Indigenous variety show that’s part of the CJTR’s lineup. She believes Indigenous people need outlets to share their stories, knowledge and voices so she created a radio show. She is not only the on-air personality, but she does all the work behind the scenes to keep Indigenous Vibes on the air. Photo supplied by Elvie Stonechild

Elvie Stonechild likes to keep busy, but since creating her own radio show, Indigenous Vibes, you can find her on CJTR 91.3 FM every Friday afternoon starting at 1 p.m.

She says the show is a way for her to help share Indigenous people’s voices. 

“I am grateful for the opportunity to do Indigenous Vibes on the CJTR radio station because prior to that there was no Indigenous programming,” said Stonechild. “I created this program to bridge our cultures and also to help in reconciliation, to teach non-Indigenous people that our Indigenous peoples have a story.” 

She is not one to shy away from a challenge, so jumping into a career in broadcasting wasn’t intimidating. 

Stonechild loves to paint, and this creative side has helped her to launch the new show for Regina listeners. 

She says factors such as a love for her mother and love for her family keep her motivated. The Cree values and lessons she was raised with do influence how she approaches life.

“I know myself as a Nehiyaw Indigenous woman, Red Thunder Bird woman and mother of four children,” said Stonechild.  

From the Nekaneet First Nation, she lived on the Piapot Cree Nation before moving to Regina. 

While in the city, Stonechild pursued post-secondary education and raised a family. After completing her degree, she spent six years as a corrections officer. She is also a powwow dancer and practises her culture. 

Indigenous Vibes is Stonechild’s baby because, not only is she the brainchild behind the show, she single-handedly works to keep it going. 

She volunteers and manages all Indigenous Vibes’ content, from writing her own scripts, editing her music and organizing guest interviews. 

The content focuses on the Cree language, powwow songs and music by Indigenous and non-Indigenous artists as well as special guest speakers and performances.  

Stonechild knows she’s producing something the community wants. 

“Oh, I love your show! I’m glad you’re teaching me about your culture and helping me to understand,” she said are some of the comments she hears from callers. 

Stonechild said there is importance in sharing her teachings, especially with those in an urban setting. 

This is our inherent land – Treaty 4 Territory – and it’s important that we share our stories, she said, adding relationship building is an integral part of Indigenous Vibes.