Shayla Gloade sparks healing through movement

In her work as a kinesiologist, Shayla Gloade champions movement as a tool for healing and empowerment. 

As an Indigenous woman from Millbrook First Nation in Colchester County, Shayla channels her personal and professional energy into helping her communities overcome intergenerational trauma and chronic disease through physical activity, education and traditional practices.

"Growing up on reserve, I faced a number of social, environmental, and spiritual hardships," she says. "During those times, it was mentors and community leaders who stepped in and introduced me to sports and physical activities that took us beyond the boundaries of home. These experiences weren’t just about competition - they were about connection, healing and discovery."

Shayla’s own personal experiences shaped her approach to health and wellness. "I learned early on that movement holds power beyond the physical," she says. "It became a space where pain eased, struggles softened, and confidence grew." 

Recognizing the barriers Indigenous communities face in accessing physical activity, Shayla pursued a career that integrates Indigenous knowledge with western health practices, a philosophy known as the two-eyed seeing approach. "It’s about honouring both ways of knowing to create more meaningful, respectful and effective care for people.” 

Shayla currently applies her talents by helping Nova Scotians through Primary Care and Chronic Disease Management in the Colchester East Hants Network.

"These programs are not just informative—they're empowering," she explains. "I strongly believe in the importance of prevention and self-management, and it's incredibly rewarding to see participants become more confident and proactive in their own health and wellness journeys."

Beyond her work in primary healthcare and chronic disease management, Shayla is a traditional dance instructor, guiding young Indigenous children in powwow dancing. "There’s something powerful in the rhythm of your steps aligning with the drumbeat - it connects you to the land, to your ancestors and to your own spirit," she says.

National Indigenous Peoples Day happens this year on June 21, which aligns with the summer solstice, the longest day of the year. For many years, First Nations, Inuit, and Métis communities have celebrated this day by sharing their cultures, languages, and traditions. The summer solstice is important to many Indigenous Peoples because it represents renewal, togetherness, and joy.

Shayla is working toward her clinical exercise physiologist certification while continuing to coach and train athletes in volleyball, lacrosse, and hockey. She is a graduate of Dalhousie University, earning a bachelor of science in kinesiology, along with certificates in Indigenous studies and disability management. She has also served as a faculty instructor for the Nova Scotia Community College’s community recreation program. She joined Nova Scotia Health in February.

Whether through sport, clinical work, or cultural education, she remains committed to using movement as a force for healing and transformation. "Whether it’s on the court, in the clinic, or in the circle, I use movement to teach, to heal, and to uplift."

The greatest rewards she receives now come from finishing educational group sessions—especially knowing these sessions include patients diagnosed with diabetes or those who have recently experienced heart events.

“These health challenges have affected my own immediate family, so seeing the interest from patients in how physical activity can truly change their course is incredibly meaningful,” Shayla explains. "I emphasize that it’s not just about weightlifting, going to the gym, or intense training. Small changes can make a big difference. As an Indigenous person, I also explore how nature and our spiritual side connect with Mother Nature. Physical fitness isn’t limited to intense feats like marathons; it can be as simple as walking in harmony with the earth.”

What are the biggest health challenges facing Indigenous communities today?

"I think one of the biggest factors is access - access to programs where you feel comfortable and supported. As an Indigenous athlete, joining my first team as the only Indigenous child, I often felt uncomfortable. I worried that I was being looked at or judged differently, or that my sense of humour was perceived as too strong or different,” Shayla continues.

There were also financial barriers. Sometimes she felt like she had to prove how she could afford certain things or even ‘earn’ her place in practices. It’s important to acknowledge the realities Indigenous athletes face, she adds, as simply listening and understanding can be a powerful tool.

“A huge part of reconciliation is opening your ears to listen - to hear the truth of Indigenous experiences,” Shayla concludes. “We shouldn’t have to stay silent or feel like we have to keep the mute button on."

Photo of Shayla Gloade.