Dr. Elisa Levi is family physician and registered dietitian committed to advancing health equity through culturally grounded, community-led approaches. She is the founder of Noongwa Wellness, an emerging Indigenous-led primary care and healing space rooted in place, culture, and community located in Neyaashiinigmiing, Ontario. Noongwa Wellness reflects a vision of a health system that honours Indigenous knowledge, self-determination, and land-based connection.

With over two decades of experience working alongside non-profits, governments, and Indigenous organizations, Dr. Levi brings an interdisciplinary approach to health systems transformation. Her work spans the development of food sovereignty and health strategies that centre meaningful engagement with Indigenous Peoples. Dr. Levi holds a Bachelor of Applied Science in Nutrition from Toronto Metropolitan University, a Master of Public Health from Lakehead University, and a Doctor of Medicine with residency training in rural family medicine from McMaster University.  She is proudly Anishinaabe, mother of two, member of the Chippewas of Nawash Unceded First Nation.

This public lecture is part of a 2026-27 series on Salutogenic Placemaking. Organized by the Engaging Education in Buddhist Studies initiative, and in collaboration with the Dalla Lana School of Public Health and the Buddhism, Psychology, and Mental Health program, the series examines how physical and social environments support individual, community, and planetary flourishing, with focus on how the Buddhist framework of the Six Perfections can shape design. The series is made possible with support from the Khyentse Foundation.