Governance
Indigenous Clean Energy is governed by a Board of Directors and an Indigenous Advisory Council that provide oversight and input to ensure programming brings the maximum benefits to Indigenous Peoples.
Portrait
Name
Harvey McLeod
Company
Canada Energy Regulator
Location
Upper Nicola, BC
Description
Harvey McLeod served as the Chief for the Upper Nicola Band for nine years with his last term concluding on March 20, 2023. He also served as Councillor for 22 years. He has approximately 40 years of experience in working on First Nations issues including developing and bridging communities on the executive, political, relationship and partnership level.
Harvey McLeod served six years as a Director for the BC Assembly of First Nations sitting on various Regional committees. This term expired in September of 2023. He also represented the region on various Assembly of First Nations committees.
He has contributed extensively and directly to the development and operations of the Indigenous Advisory Monitoring Committee (IAMC) for the Trans Mountain Expansion and Existing Pipeline. He now sits as an advisor the Canada Energy Regulator. This appointment will expire in June of 2027.
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Name
Amber Big Plume
Company
First Nation Power Development
Location
Tsuut’ina Nation, MB
Description
Amber Big Plume is a proud member of the Tsuu T’ina Nation and the Business Development and Projects Manager at First Nation Power Development. Passionate about Indigenous economic empowerment, she works to foster equitable partnerships that support meaningful ownership and sustainability for First Nations in the energy sector.
Amber’s upbringing in a Dene cultural community shaped her commitment to bridging traditional knowledge with modern economic development. She is a member of the Community Futures Treaty 7 Student Advisory Committee, and a mentor at Mount Royal University supporting Indigenous post secondary students.
She holds a degree in Law and Society with a minor in International Indigenous Studies from the University of Calgary and is pursuing an Executive MBA in Indigenous Business Leadership at Simon Fraser University.
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Name
Penny Polchies
Company
Workforce Warriors
Location
Wolastoqey, NB
Description
Penny Polchies is a proud member of the Wolastoqey – Maliseet Nation. With over 20 years of experience in the socio-economic sector, she has tirelessly advocated for sustainability and sovereign programs that support Indigenous economic self-sustainability.
During her tenure as an Economic Policy Analyst with the APCFNC, Penny worked collaboratively with the Atlantic Chiefs and Indigenous Economic Development Officers to develop an Atlantic Economic Development Strategy. Her efforts included networking and engagements focused on building capacity development initiatives for frontline workers. Meanwhile, she and the network of EDOs obtained their professional and technical certification in economic development from the Council for the Advancement of Native Development Officers (CANDO).
Penny’s role as the Director of Economic Development with the Joint Economic Development Initiative saw her advocate for economic development initiatives at the community level. She was instrumental in achieving certification in Career Counselling, successfully graduating the largest number of NB Indigenous employment training officers with the Canadian Career Practitioners Association.
In her role with JEDI, Penny developed a Cultural Awareness Tool to foster dialogue among industry, government, and the private sector regarding the TRC and its Call to Action. She also worked with CANDO as CEDI Program Officer, building relationships between municipalities in Canada and Indigenous communities. These projects underscored the importance of communities working together to create stronger economic partnerships.
Penny has been a significant influence in the Atlantic Region on economic and labor market initiatives. She serves on various boards of directors related to economic and energy initiatives. Additionally, Penny is a former council member of her community in St. Mary’s First Nation, where she served four terms, passionately supporting community initiatives.
Penny Polchies brings extensive experience and a deep understanding to her role with Workforce Warriors. Her contributions continue to pave the way for sustainable economic development and foster a collaborative spirit among Indigenous and non-Indigenous communities alike.
Portrait
Name
Grace Nakimayak
Company
Paulatuk Energy Working Group
Location
Paulatuk, NT
Description
Grace Nakimayak is the clean energy coordinator for the Paulatuk Energy Working Group. She started in this role in October 2021 to carry out the clean energy ambitions of the Paulatuk Energy Working Group, developing a Wind, Solar and Battery Energy Storage System project. Grace is a proud Inuvialuit woman, born in Yellowknife, NT and grew up living all over the country. Grace is passionate about helping her community reduce their cost of living as well as improve the quality of life, developing economic opportunities and implementing initiatives to reduce fossil fuel consumption. In her free time, she loves getting out on the land, hunting, camping and fishing.
Portrait
Name
Cherie Brant
Company
Borden Ladner Gervais LLP
Location
Tyendinaga, ON
Description
Cherie is a partner and national leader of Indigenous law at Borden Ladner Gervais LLP and has an Indigenous law and commercial practice across a wide variety of sectors, including energy and transmission, land development and financing on First Nations lands and economic development. Industry clients in the energy, infrastructure and mining sectors will seek Cherie’s counsel when developing projects or partnerships with Indigenous groups and have a need to address constitutionally protected interests of the Indigenous nations with which Canada shares its land and jurisdiction.
Over the last 15 years, Cherie’s involvement in the energy space in Ontario has resulted in several firsts: the first 100% First Nation owned wind power project in Ontario; the first Aboriginal loan guarantee from the Province of Ontario to enable First Nations to develop energy projects; the first major share purchase transaction involving 14.4M shares of a major public utility – Hydro One Limited; and the first public company in Canada (Hydro One) to commit to 50/50 equity partnerships on all major transmission projects over $100M.
A past recipient of the Lexpert Zenith Award; Lexpert’s “Rising Stars: Leading Lawyers Under 40.” And recent Distinguished Alumni Award from the Faculty of law at the University of Toronto, Cherie continues to devote her extra time to several work related and personal areas of interest in the public policy, electricity sectors and health and wellness space – all focussed on uplifting Indigenous communities and bringing awareness to the unique needs and interests of on reserve First Nations.
She is both Mohawk from Mohawks of the Bay of Quinte and Ojibway from Wikwemkoong Unceded Territory.
Now an independent director for Hydro One Limited since 2018 and Toronto-Dominion Bank since 2021, Cherie is active in advising on policy matters relating to First Nations to enable communities to achieve financial and economic sustainability.
Portrait
Name
Cara Sanders (Chair)
Company
Askii Environmental Inc.
Location
Curve Lake First Nation, ON
Description
Cara Sanders is a band member of the Curve Lake First Nation and has vast experience in environmental projects and Federal and Provincial environmental assessments (EA), responsibilities range from data collection to project management to report writing. Cara completed the Catalyst 20/20 program in 2016 and has since followed her dream to work with First Nation communities in Ontario. Cara presently has projects in motion with four communities and has proposal out with many more Nations. In the winter of 2018 Cara was awarded to CERRC bioheat projects which have grown to both having a sawmill and winter wood program. The synergy and employment opportunities for both the remotes was a perfect fit. As a First Nation woman Cara believes strongly in supporting the needs of other First Nations and in protecting our Mother Earth.
For the past many years, she has been working very hard to build relationships with communities in Ontario and to help them with things that they want and need relating to energy. The lessons learned and the people that were met in the 20/20 program have empowered her to be able to achieve the things that she has. But she believes this is only the beginning for her. She believes there is so much more to learn and share. Being asked to be a mentor and now a member of the Advisory committee is such an honour and a blessing. She is forever grateful for what she has learned and the path that she is on.
Portrait
Name
Mihskakwan James Harper
Company
NRStor Inc.
Location
Sturgeon Lake Cree Nation, MB
Description
Mihskakwan James Harper is a proud citizen of Sturgeon Lake Cree Nation in Treaty 8, Alberta. He is currently the Business Development Manager at NRStor Inc., where he champions developing large-scale energy storage and clean microgrid projects in a way that empowers communities and contributes to meaningful climate action. He holds a bachelor’s in mechanical engineering from the University of Manitoba and has recently completed a Master of Science in Renewable Energy from KTH Royal Institute of Technology and Ecole Polytechnique, with entrepreneurial training from ESADE Business School. He is a part of the SevenGen council, an organization that develops and leads programs for Indigenous youth to lead in clean energy and climate action. He also is a co-host for the podcast, Decolonizing Power, a series that aims to amplify voices worldwide on how clean energy enables authentic community empowerment. This experience, combined with the 20/20 Catalyst program, he is passionate about the carbon-free future, particularly within the power and mobility sectors. He loves his family and his community now and generations ahead, which inspires him to work with youth to build a future that is sustainable and empowers all.
Portrait
Name
Jordyn Burnouf
Company
Métis Nation – SK
Location
Île-à-la-Crosse, SK
Description
Jordyn Burnouf is a Black Lake First Nation member and grew up in the Métis community of Île-à-la-Crosse. Jordyn has committed over 12 years to empowering and building capacity for Indigenous youth. Jordyn was recently awarded Saskatchewan’s Women of Distinction Award for her work with community as an avid volunteer, community builder, and youth mentor. Jordyn is a founding member of the non-profit organization SaskATF, which supports youth participation in sport and is a Track & Field Coach for the 2020 North American Indigenous Games. Jordyn is an Associate with Medicine Rope Strategies (M-R Strategies), a consulting business dedicated to providing sustainable, practical and innovative approaches to community, economic and strategic partnership development. With a strong passion and relationship with the land, Jordyn is currently working on clean energy initiatives focusing on community engagement, cultural inclusion, and youth. Jordyn continues to advocate and create space for youth and women in the energy sector in Canada through her new role as a member of Indigenous Clean Energy’s Advisory Council.
The ICE Board of Directors is comprised of individuals from across Canada who have extensive backgrounds in clean energy project development and implementation and executive management experience.
The Board of Directors steers the organization’s operations to ensure fiscal responsibility and raise awareness about Indigenous Clean Energy’s mission and vision.
Board of Directors
Indigenous Advisory Council
The Indigenous Advisory Council is national in scope in terms of representing the views of Indigenous Peoples across Turtle Island. The Advisory Council ensures that ICE programs provide value-added clean energy information and resources for First Nations, Inuit and Métis peoples, communities, organizations, and governments. Along with the Executive Indigenous Advisory Council, the ICE Advisory Council members review all ICE programming plans and provide strategic input.
Portrait
Name
Kyla Morrisseau
Company
Animbiigoo Zaagi’igan Anishinaabek First Nation
Location
Animbiigoo Zaagi’igan Anishinaabek First Nation
Description
As the first point of entry for all industrial undertakings, Kyla’s main priority is protecting the rights and interests of Animbiigoo Zaagi’igan Anishinaabek, along with teaching her community how to adapt to a changing climate. She sees the absolute value in using green/clean energy to fight Climate Change and lower carbon emissions for the next generations. Over the last few years, Kyla’s job has contorted with the Canada Critical Minerals Strategy as it shapes the global transition to net-zero; monitoring of the lands, waters, and resources has been at an all-time high to keep them from incursion as her community works in partnership with their neighbours and exemplary proponents to harvest the resources that will aid in our world’s movement to a lower-carbon economy. AZA’s resources have been in the ground since time immemorial. If extraction cannot happen in a way that Protects Mother Earth, those minerals will continue to wait for the right time to come out.
In addition, Kyla works closely with their Community Planner and Development Manager to research best practices as they push forward with the construction of the new community. She has been exploring clean energy initiatives to help her community move forward to achieve its vision of a Green Community with self-sustaining employment. She has a profound passion for environmental preservation and protection on every level. Kyla believes if humanity works together to understand and carry out these clean energy initiatives, our world will still be here seven generations from now. She has a strong passion for youth engagement, talking to them, listening to them, including them in the dialogue, and teaching them new ways of seeing. Equipping the youth of tomorrow with all the tools of today is so important. Kyla is the proud mother of six Ojibway children and co-author of The Palgrave Handbook of Global Arts Education.
Portrait
Name
Michelle Myers
Company
Barkley Project Group
Location
Xeni Gwet’in, Tsilhqot’in Traditional Territory, BC
Description
Michelle Myers, BA, Cert. AGP, MCPM, is the Community Development Advisor at Barkley Project Group. She is a proud member of the Xeni Gwet’in First Nations (XGFNG). A dedicated mother and avid horse owner, Michelle brings a strong academic foundation to her role, with a Bachelor of Arts in Native Studies and a Certificate in Aboriginal Governance and Partnership from the University of Alberta, a Master’s Certificate in Project Management from the University of Victoria and is a licensed Advanced Drone Operator. In her previous role with XGFNG, Michelle founded the Nenqay Department (Lands and Resources) and helped draft many lands-related plans while supporting clean energy development with a community-centered focus. Passionate about empowering Indigenous communities, Michelle focuses on supporting paths to self-governance by offering valuable tools, resources, experience, and partnerships.
Portrait
Name
Quazance Boissoneau
Company
Humber College
Location
Toronto & Bawating (Ketegaunseebee/Garden River First Nation), ON
Description
Quazance Boissoneau is a dynamic professional whose journey in academia and community engagement reflects a commitment to excellence and equity. Originally from Garden River First Nation, she graduated from Algoma University in 2012 with a degree in Business Administration, specializing in Public Administration and Human Resources. Quazance’s path has been marked by a blend of academic pursuits, athletic achievements, and a steadfast dedication to Indigenous advocacy.
Noteworthy among her achievements was a transformative study abroad experience in Ecuador, where she delved into sustainable community-based economic development in the cloud forests. Her academic journey continued with postgraduate studies at George Brown College and Carleton University, culminating in expertise in Sports and Event Marketing and Indigenous Public Policy and Governance, respectively.
Currently pursuing a Master of Science in Management at Toronto Metropolitan University, Quazance’s educational pursuits reflect her commitment to continuous growth and leadership in her field. As the Manager, Indigenous Education & Engagement at Humber College, she leverages her expertise to foster equity and support for Indigenous learners. Her impactful initiatives, including streamlining residence applications and spearheading the introduction of the first Indigenous rugby jersey in the OCAA, demonstrate her dedication to inclusive education.
Quazance’s influence extends beyond the academic realm. Her participation in global forums such as the World Federation of Colleges and Polytechnics Congress underscores her role as an advocate for Indigenous education and skills development. Additionally, her involvement in various boards and committees, including Miziwe Biik Aboriginal Employment & Training and MLSE Change the Game Advisory Committee, exemplifies her commitment to effecting meaningful change.
Outside academia and advocacy, Quazance maintains a passion for basketball. Her participation in the Master’s Indigenous Games and involvement with the Raptors organization showcase her ongoing athletic achievements and commitment to community engagement. Her selection for the Air Canada Fan Flight and involvement in delivering basketball clinics highlight her dedication to giving back to her community and inspiring future generations.
Quazance Boissoneau’s multifaceted journey embodies resilience, leadership, and a profound commitment to advancing Indigenous education and representation in both academic and athletic spheres. Her continued impact serves as an inspiration to her alma mater and the broader community alike.
Portrait
Name
Austin Zacharko
Company
TruGrid
Location
Amiskwaciwâskahikan (Edmonton, Treaty 6 Territory), AB
Description
Austin Zacharko is the Senior Manager of Business Development at TruGrid, specializing in advancing utility-scale solar and energy storage projects across North America. He holds a Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Alberta and a Master of Engineering in Sustainable Energy from Carleton University.
Austin’s expertise lies in bridging technical, commercial, and regulatory teams to successfully navigate the complexities of renewable energy markets. A proud member of the Métis Nation of Alberta, he is passionate about creating equitable access to clean energy while fostering Indigenous participation in Canada’s transition to sustainability.
Recognized as one of Corporate Knights’ Top 30 Under 30, Austin has played a key role in delivering impactful clean energy projects. Outside of work, he enjoys snowboarding, hiking, cycling, journaling, reading and traveling.
Portrait
Name
Calvin J. Waquan
Company
Askiy Energy
Location
Mikisew Cree, Treaty 8 Territory, AB
Description
Calvin Waquan, an influential figure from Mikisew Cree First Nation in Fort Chipewyan, Alberta, is a leader in sustainable energy and Indigenous sovereignty.
From 2017 to 2020, he served as a councillor for his nation, securing funding for critical infrastructure projects such as a new water treatment plant (13.6million) and leading negotiations that contributed to the creation of Kitaskino Nuwenëné Wildland Park and his Nation’s 49% stake in Suncor’s East Tank Farm Development (545million).
Calvin co-founded and served as the first president of Three Nations Energy, a 100% Indigenous-owned partnership responsible for developing one of Canada’s largest off-grid solar projects, the 2.35 MW Fort Chipewyan Solar Farm(7.8million). Currently, he is the president of Askiy Energy, a grassroots company dedicated to renewable solutions for Indigenous communities. Recognized as one of 10 Energy Champions in Natural Resources Canada’s Indigenous Off Diesel Initiative, Calvin is also an active participant in Indigenous Clean Energy’s “Bringing It Home” program, focusing on green energy and housing innovations. His work continues to bridge traditional Indigenous knowledge with modern approaches to climate action and energy sovereignty.
His work extends to various roles in the Indigenous Clean Energy network, from Advisory Council to mentorship of future champions and he tirelessly advocates for climate action and inherent right to his lands/resources.
Calvin also collaborates with Greenplanet Energy Analytics as a technology analyst and community educator, focusing on renewable energy and sustainability projects. Beyond his professional endeavors, Calvin is an avid kayaker, hunter and extremist and finds solace in paddling on Lake Athabasca and Peace Athabasca river systems. He moved back to Fort Chipewyan after his father’s passing in 2014 to reconnect with his ancestral homeland. Being out on the water during sunrise and sunset serves as a healing practice for him. In his youth, Calvin was also a dedicated hockey player playing high caliber hockey highlighting his athletic versatility from a young age. Now, passing on that love thru sponsoring youth, coaching and skating lessons over the 10years back home.
Portrait
Name
Michael Marty
Company
Frog Lake First Nation
Location
Frog Lake, AB
Description
Michael is a twenty two year old, dad, fiance, big brother, oscapious, and clean energy manager of Frog Lake. He grew up in Frog lake from age 9 – 17 and participated in numerous recreational activities for the nation, graduated from C.N.C.S in 2019, worked for the nation on numerous jobs growing up including; a summer employment student and supervisor, and take lots of focus on learning culture/ceremony from the elders of the nation to teach to the next generations of Frog Lakers. Michael left to college at age 17 where he studied Natural resource technology at portage college in Lac La Biche for two years, after college Michael settled down with his children and girlfriend, moved to Cold Lake to be closer to family an culture and took a year off to focus on his mental health and learning the culture from our elders on the nation. After this year off, Michael actually was packing up to go work on a oil field camp job, when he stopped what he was doing and left the first day of work at camp and went home to Frog Lake. During this time he met up with Cliffton at a culture camp where he told him about a job opportunity in the nation he thinks Michael would be good at. He took the leap of faith and got the job as a clean energy coordinator for Frog Lake in the year; 2022. This opportunity really changed Michael’s life and gave him the chance to represent Frog Lake in the newly growing clean energy industry. As the two years progressed he got the opportunity to be apart of; community engagements on the nation, environmental feasibilities, important project meetings, capacity building programs and that eventually led him to ICE; Indigenous Clean Energy and the 20/20 catalysts program. Which gave Michael the chance to learn about clean energy on the national scale, this program helped him travel all around Canada in 2023 including places like; Nova Scotia, Saskatchewan, and Vancouver. He got to learn so much about Clean Energy that he gets to use in his every day work, he also got a chance to showcase Frog Lake at the National Indigenous Clean Energy forum in Vancouver where he presented on Frog lakes Clean Energy projects. This program not only changed his life but it also introduced him to whole knew network of programs available to be applied for. Michael eventually applied for Generation Power which is a program that pays for 75% of an employees wages, this program helped Michael be able to continue working well into 2024. At the start of the year he introduced this program to two Frog Lake members; Samuel and Ayden. Which led to the clean energy team expanding and Michael taking on a new role as Frog Lakes Clean Energy Manager. He has been working numerous Clean Energy projects on the nation and slowly expanding to economic development projects for the nation, he is very excited to continue working for his nation and start passing down his role to the next generations of Frog Lake Clean Energy workers.
Portrait
Name
Desiree Maurice
Company
Lac La Ronge Indian Band
Location
Lac La Ronge Indian Band, Treaty 6 Territory, SK
Description
Raised in Pinehouse Lake, Saskatchewan, in the Northern Métis-Northern Region 3, Desiree Maurice was shaped by her ancestors’ teachings and the deep-rooted wisdom of her grandparents. Growing up on the land, she learned resilience and purpose from the natural world—a calling that connects her to generations of Indigenous people. For Desiree, the land isn’t just a place; it’s an identity, a memory, and a promise to return, no matter where life leads.
As a young Indigenous woman, she often felt like an outsider in a world that didn’t always feel welcoming. She likens her journey to being adrift in a lake, struggling to empty a canoe with holes as water flooded in. Watching others paddle confidently past, she felt alone, lost, and afraid of being overtaken by the weight of her challenges. But eventually, she paused. She stopped fighting the water just long enough to look up, and in that moment, a new journey began—a journey of self-discovery. She asked herself: Who is she when she stops fighting, when she asks for help?
Asking for support led her to community, to calmness, and to strength. Over time, she not only steadied her canoe but transformed it into something solid and enduring.
Today, Desiree’s work in clean energy isn’t just a career—it’s a calling. With each project, she brings sustainable, culturally rooted solutions to her community, aiming to empower others with the tools for resilience and independence. Her passion lies in inspiring youth, equipping them to carry the torch forward, and nurturing their sense of belonging in both tradition and innovation.
Desiree’s purpose is clear: to return to that lake with a strong canoe and reach out to those still struggling, helping them find balance and build their own paths forward. Through her work, she’s not just creating energy solutions; she’s creating communities where each person knows they belong and can thrive—anchored in culture, empowered by resilience, and driven by the promise of a sustainable future.
Portrait
Name
Juliano Tupone
Company
FNCIAS
Location
Saskatoon, Treaty 6 Territory, SK
Description
Juliano Tupone is the Vice President of Accounting & Finance at the First Nations Capital & Infrastructure Agency of Saskatchewan, where he is passionate about First Nations development, governance, and jurisdiction.
Juliano earned his Bachelor of Arts in Economics, Bachelor of Commerce, and MBA from the University of Saskatchewan. He has extensive experience in finance, accounting, budgeting, and financial planning. Notably, Juliano has helped over two dozen First Nations entrepreneurs access grants and launch their businesses.
Beyond his professional achievements, Juliano is a dedicated father who raised five strong and resilient First Nations children. In his leisure time, he enjoys reading, research, exercise, food culture, and exploring his “inner nerd” with various hobbies.
Portrait
Name
Sara Fralin
Company
Aboriginal Housing Management Association
Location
Snuneymuxw First Nation, also known as Nanaimo, BC
Description
Sara Fralin is a 4th generation Canadian living on the unceded territory of the Snuneymuxw First Nation. Sara’s Jewish ancestors escaped the Pogroms of Russia and arrived in Canada in 1923 as refugee immigrants.
Sara earned a Master’s in Sustainability Studies from Trent University and two Bachelor’s degrees in Political Science and Environment Studies from the University of Victoria.
Sara manages Engagement and Technical Services in the Asset Strategies department at the Aboriginal Housing Management Association (AHMA). AHMA is an umbrella organization of 56 Indigenous housing and service providers. She provides resources that empower members to steward their housing assets.
Sara brings expertise in energy conservation, energy retrofits, electrification, decarbonization, nonprofit housing, and fundraising to her role on the ICE advisory committee. She has over six years of experience working in the Indigenous housing sector.
Sara loves “jumping up and down in muddy puddles” with her young son.
Portrait
Name
Patrick Flood
Company
North Shore Mi’kmaq Tribal Council
Location
Fredericton, NB
Description
Patrick was first connected to ICE following his time living and working in remote diesel-reliant communities. Keen to support the Indigenous Off Diesel Initiative, Patrick connected with the ICE team and supported projects behind the scenes on a part-time basis for about 6 months.
Supported by his learnings with ICE and his time living in remote communities – Patrick began working with the North Shore Mi’kmaq Tribal Council in April 2024. Here, he leads community outreach programming that is STEM and energy focused, supports the deployment of their annual Atlantic Indigenous Led Energy Symposium, and is leading a research study to understand how to increase Indigenous business participation in the nuclear supply chain, particularly ASMRs.
Patrick is honoured and excited to be a part of ICE’s advisory council and stay connected to the great work they’re taking on.
Portrait
Name
Gene Ouellette
Company
AECOM
Location
Saskatoon, SK
Description
Gene Ouellette is a seasoned professional with over 25 years of experience in Indigenous relations, economic development, and strategic consulting. As the President of Iron Buffalo Consulting, he has provided expertise to corporations, governments, and Indigenous communities, fostering meaningful partnerships and sustainable economic opportunities.
Currently serving as Tribal/Indigenous Client Account Manager at AECOM, Gene leads initiatives to strengthen relationships between AECOM and Indigenous/Tribal communities throughout North America. Gene’s previous roles include Senior Advisor of Economic Development at Pembina Pipeline and Indigenous Liaison for Steel River Sicim Pipeline, where he played a pivotal role in stakeholder engagement, employment strategies, and policy development.
Gene’s extensive background includes senior advisory and business development roles with organizations such as Chemco, Stantec, M&M Resources, and the Alberta Electric System Operator. He has successfully led consultation efforts, established joint venture agreements, and developed Indigenous participation plans to ensure mutually beneficial outcomes.
His career also spans key positions in government and non-profit sectors, including the Federation of Saskatchewan Indian Nations, the Government of Alberta, and the Indian Resource Council. With a strong foundation in justice and Indigenous studies, Gene has dedicated his career to advocating for Indigenous inclusion in business, resource development, and policy initiatives.
Passionate about creating opportunities for Indigenous communities, Gene continues to drive meaningful change by bridging the gap between industry and Indigenous rights, fostering collaboration, and promoting economic self-sufficiency.
Gene is a proud member of Mistawasis Nehiwayak and father to 3 boys and 1 daughter and Mosom to 2 with the 3rd on the way.
Portrait
Name
Sarah Powell
Company
New Relationship Trust
Location
Prince George, BC
Description
Sarah Powell is a member of the Taku River Tlingit First Nation and currently resides in Prince George, BC. She graduated from the University of Victoria and has a Bachelor of Science degree with a major in Geography and a minor in Indigenous Studies. Sarah joined the New Relationship Trust in 2020 through the Indigenous Youth Internship Program (IYIP) after her Ministry of Transportation placement. She now works as the Manager of Clean Energy Initiatives, administering the BC Indigenous Clean Energy Initiative (BCICEI), the Community Energy Diesel Reduction Program (CEDR), and the Guardians and Stewardship Training Initiative (GSTI). Sarah’s goal through her work is to assist Nations on their journey to energy self-sovereignty and reduce community reliance on diesel. Previously, Sarah worked with NRT’s education initiatives and corporate services, and for the BC Wildfire Service as a dispatcher at the Cariboo Fire Centre.
Portrait
Name
Mercedes Sandy
Company
Keepers of the Circle
Location
Beausoleil First Nation, ON
Description
Mercedes Sandy is a dedicated Indigenous housing professional from Chimnissing (Beausoleil First Nation, ON) with a strong background in housing management, asset maintenance, and energy efficiency. She is deeply committed to advocating for safe, healthy, and sustainable housing solutions within Indigenous communities.
Mercedes began her career within her home community’s housing department, where she worked in various roles supporting tenants, homeowners, and housing initiatives. Most recently, she served as the Tenant Coordinator, working closely with community members to provide essential home maintenance demonstrations, conduct unit inspections, and manage asset data collection. Beyond administrative tasks, she played a key role in educating tenants on homeownership responsibilities, supporting housing policies, and promoting long-term sustainability in community housing. She also has hands-on experience managing new construction and retrofit projects, ensuring homes meet high standards of safety, efficiency, and durability.
In April 2023, Mercedes obtained her Home Inspection Certificate from Algonquin College, further strengthening her expertise in housing assessment. She went on to earn her Certified Professional Inspector designation through InterNACHI in January 2024 and is currently training to become an Energy Advisor, expanding her knowledge in energy efficiency and sustainable building practices.
Mercedes is also actively engaged in professional development initiatives aimed at advancing Indigenous housing solutions. She is a participant in the 2023-2024 Project Accelerator Program by Indigenous Clean Energy, where she collaborates with other Indigenous professionals from across Canada to develop innovative, energy-efficient housing projects. This program provides valuable mentorship and skill development in project management, communication, leadership, and adaptability—essential for implementing impactful housing initiatives in Indigenous communities.
As of January 2025, Mercedes is employed with Keepers of the Circle as the Intermediate Energy Projects Lead. In this role, she supports education and capacity-building initiatives for Indigenous women interested in energy efficiency and clean energy careers. Keepers of the Circle, operated by the Temiskaming Native Women’s Support Group, is an urban Indigenous Hub dedicated to fostering cultural, social, and economic equity for Indigenous women. Through this work, Mercedes helps develop training programs, community outreach initiatives, and resource materials to empower Indigenous women to excel in the clean energy space.
With a passion for Indigenous housing, sustainable development, and community empowerment, Mercedes remains committed to improving housing conditions and fostering energy-efficient solutions. Her expertise, hands-on experience, and dedication to capacity-building make her a valuable advocate for housing initiatives that integrate cultural and environmental sustainability.
Portrait
Name
Olive Williams
Company
National Indigenous Collaborative Housing Inc.
Location
Happy Valley-Goose Bay, NL
Description
Olive Williams is from the territory of Labrador in the province of Newfoundland and Labrador. She is a member of the Nunatukavut Community Council (NCC), they are the southern Labrador Inuit.
Olive was born in a small, coastal, remote community of Cartwright. She currently lives in Happy Valley-Goose Bay, which is part of her birth territory. She worked in Business and Finance Management with both profit and non-profit organizations for several years. She even tried to leave her territory to work as an accountant with the OFIFC in Toronto. Even though it was nice to visit, she didn’t like working downtown but thought OFIFC was great.
After a few attempts at applying for jobs with NCC, in 2019, she finally landed one (don’t ever stop trying) as a Project Officer for the Home Repair Program, and she has not looked back since. Olive became interested in renewable energy as some of the communities are diesel-dependent. Reducing the carbon footprint for generations to come and ensuring a cleaner, greener environment for her people is essential to her.
Housing is of keen interest to Olive. She grew up in the 1970s in a community where only the middle class and elite had running water and a good heat supply. Her family was not part of any of those groups, they were like many other native families, but they were happy and a close single-parent family of nine kids, of which she is the youngest.
Portrait
Name
Terri Lynn Morrison
Company
Luminary
Location
Listuguj, QC
Description
A proud Mi’gmaq from Listuguj, Quebec, Terri Lynn is a First Nation executive with a passion for bridging the gap between Indigenous communities, Provincial and Federal government, and industry, primarily in the renewable energy sector.
Her experience is primarily working with stakeholders about Indigenous rights and titles, sustainable natural resource management, and the development of robust partnerships based on Indigenous values and knowledge. Terri Lynn has held several key leadership positions working in clean energy. She was awarded the Rising Star by the Techno Centre Eolienne Quebec in 2016 and played a key role in the award of Excellence in Human Resource Management for the Mesgi’g Ugju’s’n Wind Farm, where she was the Project Director of the 150 MW wind farm.
Terri Lynn has extensive presentation and facilitation experience between proponents, communities, and leadership. She’s participated in many important panels across the country hosted by the CCAB, Globe Forum 2022, and Pembina. She contributed articles to the Globe, Vanity Community Investment Bank, and CCAB to advocate for Indigenous partnerships built on Indigenous ways and knowledge.
Working closely with Indigenous peoples, large corporations, and government to share stories about what we can all learn and improve on while highlighting Indigenous success stories and best practices contributed to Terri Lynn being named part of the #WOMENLEADINGCLEANTECH by Foresight Canada in 2022. She has also mentored over 120 20/20 Catalysts with Indigenous Clean Energy who are from across the county and leading work in their communities to advance energy projects and create economic benefits.
Terri Lynn has always had a passion for exploring ways that Indigenous communities, industry, Territorial, and Provincial governments can reach a consensus on how they will work together. As a communicator, mentor, and leader, she is committed to creating space, driving growth, fostering open dialogue, and ensuring that Indigenous voices are represented and heard in important discussions.
Terri Lynn considers herself a lifelong learner and is pursuing an MBA in Community Economic Development at Cape Breton University.
Portrait
Name
Ed Genova
Company
NB Power Corporation
Location
Metepenagiag First Nation, NB
Description
Ed is a Mi’kmaq from Metepenagiag First Nation. Ed graduated from the University of New Brunswick and worked in the education sector for 10 years before entering the Energy Industry. He is now a Strategic Advisor with NB Power and has worked in the energy sector for 18 years.
Ed became one of the first 20/20 Catalysts for Clean Energy in Canada with Indigenous Clean Energy (ICE) in 2016. Today, he sits on the Indigenous Clean Energy (ICE) Advisory Council and is a Mentor for his fellow Catalysts.
Ed and his First Nations Affairs team work closely with the First Nations in NB. Working to improve relationships, strategize resolutions to legacy issues, promoting employment opportunities and career development. The First Nations Affairs team provides guidance, support and facilitation to both internal employees and First Nations.
This experience has given Ed the opportunity to work with many Indigenous organizations, Government departments, other utilities, funding agencies and Indigenous people in various areas of the workforce.
The team is very passionate about capacity building, internally as well as externally. The First Nations Team has created Cultural Awareness/Sensitivity programs for employees and continues to work towards becoming leaders in Indigenous Inclusion and Corporate/Indigenous partnerships. Looking at 2025, the team is excited to work on a Pathway to Healing in support of Reconciliation.
Portrait
Name
Andrea Warren
Company
Tu Deh-Kah Geothermal
Location
Treaty 8 Territory in Fort Nelson, BC
Description
Andrea Warren is a proud Qalipu Mi’kmaq woman living on Treaty 8 Territory in Fort Nelson, BC. A business graduate with a background in Media and Communications, Andrea brings a unique perspective to her work with Indigenous communities, blending strategic planning with cultural understanding. She currently serves as Project Coordinator and Media & Communications Specialist for Tu Deh-Kah Geothermal, where she oversees project tracking, budgeting, and funding applications, ensuring alignment with financial and community goals.
Andrea is passionate about empowering Indigenous-led clean energy initiatives and fostering food security through innovative community projects. Notably, she played a pivotal role in developing a greenhouse initiative focused on food sovereignty and youth engagement.
When she isn’t working, Andrea spends her time exploring the outdoors, embarking on adventures with her three young children, and indulging in at-home DIY projects that inspire creativity and connection.
Portrait
Name
Rhonda L. Henry
Company
Colliers Project Leaders
Location
Ottawa, ON
Description
Rhonda is a Chartered Professional Accountant and seasoned Corporate Services Director with an extensive background leading Finance, Human Resources, Administration and Technology functions across a variety of industries, sectors and countries. Drawing on nearly three decades of finance leadership, policy development, process optimization, and business transformation, Rhonda is a valued teammate and leader.
Throughout her career, Rhonda has had the privilege to work in the Not-for-Profit sector, including Indigenous and social development organizations, both across Canada and Internationally. She has extensive experience in financial business reporting, internal controls and policy, as well financial stewardship and budget development in complex, multi-divisional environments. In addition to financial management, Rhonda has deep experience in developing and managing end-to-end Human Resources functions, overseeing Technology Infrastructure, and corporate Facilities management.
Approaching her work with honesty, integrity, and a genuine desire to help improve their organizations, Rhonda provides clients with business expertise to fit their unique needs, executing key projects within scope & budget. Rhonda’s extensive negotiation and mediation background, collaborative communication style and strategic thought process are keys to the success of the solutions she offers.
Portrait
Name
Brandi Hunter
Company
Location
Red Deer, AB
Description
I am in my second year of College at Red Deer Polytechnic for Multidisciplinary Studies; I plan to further my education into my master’s in law.
I am more involved with the youth and post-secondary studies in my community and neighbouring O’Chiese First Nation. I have been a part of The Alberta Native Hockey Championship Tournament, coaching the youth and putting in a competitive U15 female team; I am also part of the National Indigenous Junior Hockey Championship Committee, which will be the first time the tournament will run in Toronto, Ontario.
I come from a very cultural background that believes in our traditions & still practices them. Especially when it comes to “Mother Earth”. I truly believe we must keep this knowledge practice, especially when it comes to energy services. I wanted to become part of this committee as I believe we must continuously search for ways we, as Indigenous People, teach non-Indigenous people the importance of the land and perspectives of natural law and Western sciences.
I have gone with my Mooshum/Ada (Grandpa) to traditional land sites to let companies and energy services know of the areas they can not touch, to the areas to avoid traditional ceremonies or graveyards in place. This sparked more interest in being a part of ICE through environmental benefits, health benefits, economic benefits, and energy security.
Portrait
Name
Firman Latimer
Company
CEO & Founder of FNpower
Location
Serpent River First Nation, ON
Description
Firman Latimer is a First Nation business leader and a proud member from Serpent River First Nation. He holds a Commerce Degree and a Master of Business Administration degree from the Ivey School of Business. Before starting FNpower, Firman devoted his professional career to supporting the First Nation community’s economic and business development for 13 years, working directly for a number of First Nation communities in Alberta, Ontario and BC, where he held key roles in successfully establishing and managing First Nation-owned enterprises.
Leveraging a general understanding of rights and political positions First Nations now hold within Canada’s economic development landscape, Firman has navigated and implemented many strategies to create different successful partnerships and businesses benefiting Indigenous communities and people. In his senior management and executive positions, he has been responsible for building and managing governance structures that grew to oversee 100-plus employees in various business operations with combined free cashflows of over $40 Million per year. He has experience in business start-ups, First Nation-led industry negotiations, strategic business planning, business venture structuring, and project management, and has been actively involved in raising capital and overseeing business operations. He has led business development ventures relating to land development, commercial development, energy exploration, oil field services, timber harvesting and forestry licenses management, retail, gravel pits and aggregate operations, contracting and heavy equipment, and casino and hospitality.
Recognizing a gap in Indigenous participation in Canada’s renewable energy sector, Firman founded First Nation Power Development Inc (FNpower) to drive ownership and development of utility-scale renewable energy projects. With his background and the team of experts he has gathered, FNpower is supporting communities by accessing capital, investing in renewable energy projects, and providing the support and capacity needed to get these projects to the finish line. Most recently exemplified in the Tilley Solar Project and the Paul First Nation Solar Farm project.