Manitoba Keewatinowi Okimakanak (MKO)

During her field placement with Manitoba Keewatinowi Okimakanak (MKO), Nowsheen Kamal worked with the
Youth Justice Program, which partners with Manitoba Justice to support Indigenous youth involved in the
criminal justice system. Her activities included assisting with program logistics, developing case notes,
supporting cultural and community-based programming such as sweat lodges, pipe ceremonies, and the Moose
Hide Campaign, and contributing to evaluation and data collection. She also accompanied youth on outings,
probation appointments, and reintegration processes, while observing how MKO builds trust and connection
through both everyday care and culturally grounded practices.

Reflecting on her placement, she shared: “This summer, I witnessed restorative justice in action. I learned how culture, patience, and even small gestures — like remembering a youth’s favorite food or showing up consistently — can help build trust and healing. It was a reminder that justice can mean care, accountability, and walking beside youth as they find their path forward.”