Turtle Lodge Leader
Anishinaabe Nation
David Courchene III (Painted Sky Man) is from the Eagle Clan and resides on Turtle Island, spending most of his time between two communities which he calls home – Sagkeeng First Nation and Biigtigong (Pic River) First Nation. He is the Leader of the Turtle Lodge International Centre for Indigenous Education and Wellness and is active in promoting the revitalization of the community’s Anishinabe culture and language.
David comes from a long line of leadership in the Anishinabek Nation. His father, the late Elder Nii Gaani Aki Inini (Dr. Dave Courchene) was the founder of the Turtle Lodge and a respected Spiritual Leader of the Anishinaabe Nation. His grandfather, and great grandfather served as political chiefs of his home community.
He was home-schooled for many years by his parents Dave and Orianna Courchene, where he was taught the importance of the traditional ways and Ceremonies of his people. He travelled around the world with his father, sharing the message of peace and promoting the environmental worldview of the Anishinabe people. He enjoys spending his free time with his wife, Lisa Michano-Courchene and four children hunting and fishing.