About Us
Bridging Knowledge, Inspiring Growth
The Asokan Project is a groundbreaking educational initiative co-founded by two experts with complementary backgrounds in science and Indigenous art history. We are committed to the belief that education should be inclusive, accessible, and culturally relevant for everyone. Drawing on our extensive experience in creating and delivering educational programs and resources, we strive to provide innovative solutions to educational challenges and empower students to reach their full potential.
Our Story
Asokan began as a collaboration between two childhood friends from rural Saskatchewan, who later pursued PhDs in fields often seen as worlds apart. Through meaningful conversations, we realized that our disciplines shared more common ground than we had imagined. This realization inspired us to create Asokan, a project dedicated to bridging these diverse fields to offer a more holistic educational experience.
In Cree, "Asokan" means bridge. Our mission is to connect the gaps between arts and science, Western and Indigenous knowledge systems, and institutions and students.
Janay Fox
PhD Candidate
I am a PhD candidate in biology at McGill University, specializing in neotropical conservation. My research lies at the intersection of neurobiology, behavioural ecology, and genomics, with a particular focus on how stress influences genetics and behaviour. Alongside my research, I am a dedicated university educator, teaching a range of undergraduate biology courses. I am deeply passionate about science communication and outreach, striving to make science more accessible and engaging for diverse audiences. Through my work, I am committed to fostering an inclusive educational environment that encourages others to find their place in the scientific community.
Alexandra Nordstrom
MA, PhD Candidate
I am an art historian, curator, cultural worker and writer based in Montreal, Quebec. Multidisciplinary in nature, my work focusses on the resurgence and study of Indigenous knowledge systems and culture with a particular focus on Cree Worldviews, land-based learning, and creative practice. I am also a co-curator of the Poundmaker Museum and Gallery and one of the co-directors of Sarasa Performance Laboratory Inc. My writing has been featured in Room Magazine, C Magazine, RACAR, and the catalogue of the 6th Contemporary Native Art Biennial / Biennale d’art contemporain autochtone.
