Colin R. Singer

• Why newcomer–Indigenous tensions exist and how he addresses them
• The mission of Real Talk Winnipeg
• What The Hood Fams does to support vulnerable youth
• Why community mentorship is changing lives

Mandela Kuet, a Sudanese-born community leader in Winnipeg, is on a mission to build bridges between Indigenous Peoples and newcomers to Canada . Arriving from South Sudan in the late 1990s, Mandela grew up in Winnipeg’s North End, a neighbourhood with deep Indigenous roots and a growing immigrant population . His lived experience has shaped his understanding of the complex relationship between these communities – one often marked by mutual misunderstanding, fear and competition for limited resources.

Rather than allowing these tensions to fester, Mandela has taken action. Through conversation, mentorship and grassroots initiatives, he’s helping people recognise each other’s struggles – and their shared potential.

Mandela arrived in Winnipeg at age 13 and settled in the predominantly Indigenous North End. Over time, he witnessed the challenges faced by both communities. “Each group thinks the other gets more opportunities,” he says. Misconceptions and stereotypes can fuel resentment, especially when families are struggling with poverty, trauma or discrimination.

The situation is often worsened by gang activity in disadvantaged areas. Vulnerable youth, whether Indigenous or newcomer, are at risk of being recruited. Mandela recognises that fear and a lack of understanding can lead people to see the other community as the cause of their problems. But he believes the real solution lies in communication and connection.

Mandela uses storytelling and open discussion to dispel stereotypes and build empathy. He explains Canada’s colonial history, residential schools and the ongoing trauma faced by Indigenous Peoples to immigrant communities. At the same time, he helps Indigenous youth understand the hardships newcomers endure – war, displacement, poverty and fear.

“Everyone is just trying to survive,” Mandela says. That simple message underpins his work.

In 2019, Mandela partnered with Indigenous activist Michael Redhead Champagne to launch Real Talk Winnipeg, a podcast focused on bridging the cultural divide between the city’s Indigenous and newcomer communities.

The podcast explores tough issues like racism, parenting, government support and cultural identity. One episode tackled how assumptions about dreadlocks or long hair can lead to unfair treatment. Others debunk the myth that one group is favoured over the other in accessing public services.

Michael describes Mandela as someone who brings “a rational, calm energy and unique sense of humour” to the project. “He works from a very heart-centred place to create opportunities for folks of all backgrounds in the North End,” he says.

Mandela also founded The Hood Fams, a not-for-profit that supports Indigenous, racialized and newcomer youth. The initiative offers a safe drop-in space, mentorship, and community-building activities. Its aim is to help young people avoid conflict with the law and instead channel their energy into growth and leadership.

Mandela hopes to expand The Hood Fams nationally to support youth in similar communities across Canada.

Mandela’s influence extends beyond formal programs. He takes a personal interest in mentoring youth leaders who want to make a difference.

One such leader is Gode Katembo, a West End resident who Mandela supported when he began working to create alternatives to gang involvement. Gode went on to found Sports Without Boundaries and the Manitoba African Cup of Nations, both of which use sport to engage youth and strengthen communities.

“If not for Mandela, I probably would not have these initiatives today,” says Gode. “I became who I am under his wings.”

Mandela Kuet exemplifies the power of grassroots leadership and the impact one person can have…