Don Lyons MSW

Don Lyons, MSW, is an Internationally acclaimed speaker, trainer, facilitator, and leader. Don is a citizen of Leech Lake Band of Ojibway and descendant of Six Nations Mohawk. Borned and raised in Detroit Michigan, Don remained connected to his Indigenous roots through the love and support of his parents, grandparents (boarding school survivors), and mentorship from the urban native community of Detroit. Being a urban native Don has been blessed to come from a blended family of racial and tribal backgrounds. This diversity of experiences has shaped and feed Don passionate for applying the inherent brilliance of indigenous knowledge systems throughout his life. Don has always found ways to Indigenise spaces and places he has been. Don contributed his success in his personal and professional life to love and support of his friends, family, elders, and the ability to remain connected to traditional ceremonies, singing and dancing. ​

Don brings 15+ years of experience working with hundreds of communities, organizations, and businesses Internationally and across Indian Country as a highly skilled facilitator, evaluator, trainer, coach, and leader. Don brings his lived experience, passion and professional expertise to help build self sufficient Indigenous Nations. ​ Don lives in East Lansing MI with his wonderful wife Elizabeth and two awesome kids-Niwiin and Sofia.

My amazing grandmothers — Dorothy Bonga McMickens (Leech Lake) and Frederica Hill Rossi (Six Nations Mohawk)