Debbie Toney

Debra Toney was born in 1972 in Ottawa. Her mother is Mi'kmaq from the Annapolis Valley First Nation's Community. Debra has traveled to many locations in Canada and has lived in two different Nova Scotian native communities, Subenacadie and the AVFN.

Debra went to public school and graduated from Central Kings. She never encountered discrimination based on her culture. Debra has volunteered with various organizations within her community. She has been very involved with this oral history project; she has helped with filming and editing.

Debbie is very close to her mother and grandmother. She is drawn to the traditional ways of her people. She has attended workshops about traditional crafts. She has made her own drum with the help of her cousin and is learning more about drumming. As well, she has done some traditional beads work.

Debra belongs to the United Pentecostal Christian Church and does native drumming for her church community.

Debbie cares very much about her community. Her positive attitude makes her a great link between generations.