Today, in a time of unprecedented global change, Indigenous wayfinding skills and practices are more important than ever.
The Wayfinders Circle supports and gathers Indigenous Peoples from around the world who protect their lands, waters, and territories. This network serves as a platform for various purposes, including learning and exchanging experiences related to ways of life, spirituality, and traditional knowledge. Additionally, the network is envisioned to address challenges, threats, and difficulties faced by Indigenous Peoples. Ultimately, the Wayfinders Circle seeks to foster unity, strength, and mutual support, providing a space for Indigenous communities to come together and share experiences.
Who are the Wayfinders
The inception of the Wayfinders Circle traces back to 2019 when leaders from the Pawanka Fund engaged in discussions with Nia Tero and the Council of Elders. The collective vision was to facilitate conditions for the establishment of a global network uniting Indigenous Peoples from diverse regions of the world who are experts in collectively caring for and managing their territories, with a profound sense of guardianship, strong self-governance, and ancestral experience in the intergenerational transmission of knowledge and spirituality.
Currently, the Wayfinders Circle is composed of 15 members from across the 7 sociocultural regions of the world, protecting 47 million hectares of land and 72 million hectares of oceans.
Wayfinders of the world
Wayfinders Circle members live in various regions of the world and experience diverse ecosystems including tropical forest communities temperate boreal forest communities; and oceanic island communities, semi-arid areas, grasslands and mountain communities. In each case, the Wayfinders practice a broad array of self-governance formations rooted in their respective bioregions and in full realization of their own self-determination.
Film Series
As the world grapples with unprecedented challenges, embark on a transformative journey bringing the world closer to Indigenous Peoples and their vital role in sustaining our planet. Through a series of short documentary films, viewers are introduced to the inspiring members of this global alliance, hailing from 15 Indigenous lands and waters, highlighting the profound wisdom of reciprocal relations, deep connection with the Earth, and ancestral knowledge passed down through generations.
Stories
Wayfinders Circle members share their experiences and stories to inspire and be inspired by others within this learning circle and beyond.
May 5, 2026
Indigenous Peoples from four members of the Wayfinders Circle participated in the 25th Session of the U.N. Permanent Forum on Indigenous Issues. They delivered a collective statement highlighting the importance of Free, Prior and Informed Consent.
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December 16, 2025
Wayfinders Circle members gathered in Cahuilla territory in Southern California in November. The exchange of culture and spirituality brought together representatives from across North America and the Sami from Sweden and Indigenous Australians.
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November 4, 2025
Wayfinders from around the globe gathered for a Sacred Fire Ceremony held by the World Union of Indigenous Spiritual Practitioners. The Ceremony is a tradition carried that honors ancient fire ceremonies held since time immemorial.
ReadReports
We invite you to explore the Wayfinders Circle 2023–2024 Annual Report, which showcases the most significant milestones in the journey of the Wayfinders Circle. In addition to highlighting our collective impact, outreach efforts, and key events, the report introduces each of the 15 Indigenous members of the Wayfinders Circle and the strides they are making to strengthen governance systems and enhance the well-being of their communities.
Reports
In this Governance Report, you will learn the story of the Wayfinders members, their lands, and their contributions towards each others’ shared learning and efforts in Indigenous guardianship. The report is available in multiple languages.
