From Storytelling to Tech: The Evolving Journey of First Nations Storytellers

When Gail Bremner and Dave Smith co-founded First Nations Storytellers in 2021, the goal of the business was simple - offer authentic Indigenous cultural experiences in the Saint John Region. Gail, a tourism consultant, saw a clear gap in the market and believed in creating a space where Indigenous culture could be shared meaningfully and respectfully. She laid the groundwork for the business and encouraged Dave to bring his voice forward.

Four years later, what began as a leap into the unknown has evolved into something far deeper – a personal and community transformation.

“When I look back on it now, it was exactly what I needed to do,” Dave reflects. “The goal was to lift other indigenous voices, which seems to be happening. I’ve always been careful to make sure every step is meaningful, and I feel like as a company, we are breaking into new ground.” 

That deliberate approach has helped the business grow from tourism-focused storytelling walks and kayak tours into something more. First Nations Storytellers now visits more than 40 schools annually, offers cultural ceremonies in hospitals, supports drumming circles, and consults on projects that elevate Indigenous presence in the region.

“We set out some key values – being genuine, being authentic, and lifting up other Indigenous voices,” says Smith. “I like to think I started a conversation in the city. And now, other people are joining in.”

Among the most exciting developments is a language revitalization initiative, a deeply personal project for Smith, who is teaching himself Mi’kmaw and creating an AI-powered translator tool.

“We went from being a tour company to a possible tech start-up,” he says with a laugh. “It’s full circle. I’m using what I did for 20 years in IT and merging it with who I am now.”

This journey of reconnection has not been easy. As a Sixties Scoop survivor, Smith says he once felt hesitant to fully claim his culture.

“I was afraid of overstepping, of doing something wrong,” he recalls. That began to shift after a trip to New Zealand, where he witnessed Māori communities embracing their identity without hesitation. “They were unashamed. Language was everywhere. That kind of tipped me over the edge. I realized, ‘This is how it should be done.’”
 

Today, Smith is working on a podcast, drumming at community fires, and mentoring others who are navigating their own journeys of cultural reclamation.

“It’s like a little nook opened up that I never thought I’d step into,” he says. “Now I’m home practicing songs and trying to write my own.”

Even with awards and new opportunities, he remains grounded. “I don’t think what I do is overly special – except that we saw a gap in the city and filled it.”
For Gail, this journey has also been one of personal learning and growth. 

“My role has always been about creating the conditions for Dave to do what he does so well,” she shares. “I manage the business side of things, but more than that, I want our daughter to see that we are building something rooted in purpose and community.”

Looking ahead, Smith dreams of writing a book, building a land-based retreat space, and continuing to amplify Indigenous voices. “I want our daughter to look back one day and say, ‘I’m proud of what they did,’” he shares. “That’s the legacy we want to leave behind.”

Learn more: https://www.firstnationsstorytellers.com/