Generation Power encourages Indigenous youth to explore careers in clean energy. It is also an essential piece of the clean energy landscape in Canada that nurtures the leadership potential of both Indigenous youth and energy sector employers to advance a sustainable and equitable energy future.
Jolene is Anishinaabe-Kwe from Wahnapitae First Nation, a signatory of the Robinson-Huron Treaty of 1850. Currently she serves her community as the Economic Development Officer, supporting the work of the Sustainable Development department. Jolene first became interested in clean energy when her community undertook a grass-roots, community-based approach to developing an Energy Action Plan. Wahnapitae First Nation strives for energy sovereignty and independence and prioritizes providing safe, clean, reliable energy for all community members.
Jerid is currently attending Dalhousie University, where he is pursuing a double major in Earth Science and Environmental Sustainability, He is working toward obtaining his Professional Environmental Geoscientist certification. Jerid has lived in Nova Scotia for his whole life, and mainly grew up on Glooscap First Nation, just outside of the Annapolis Valley. Growing up in this community, he has always had an attachment to nature and the environment which is the reason he became interested in both the 20/20 Catalysts program and his current studies. He currently sits on the board of directors for Glooscap Ventures, which has allowed him to help his community grow and watch it move in a new direction. Jerid hopes that this can one day lead them to be a prime example of what can be accomplished with the combination of clean energy and our traditional knowledge.
Born in Middleton, N.S. Jason is a member of Glooscap First Nation, located in Hantsport, N.S. Jason joined the Canadian Armed forces in May of 2002, and was trained as a Supply Technician. In 2010, Jason was appointed the quartermaster position for CFB Kingston’s Peace Support Training Centre, where he provided support for the pre-deployment training, and speciality courses for Canadian and NATO-allied countries. After his retirement from the Canadian Forces in 2013, Jason started his studies at Acadia University, majoring in History. In 2015, he started his employment with Glooscap First Nation, and has held several positions within the organization, including On-site Monitor for the Gaspereau Lake Refurbishment Project, Manager of Special Projects, and currently he is the Housing and Maintenance Officer. He resides in Coldbrook, N.S. with his spouse Kayla, and their two sons, Cole and Connar.
Mihskakwan James Harper is from Sturgeon Lake Cree Nation in Treaty 8, Alberta. He currently is a Business Development Manager at NRStor Inc., a Canadian energy storage developer. He graduated from the University of Manitoba with a Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering and has recently completed a Masters of Science in Renewable Energy from KTH Royal Institute of Technology and Ecole Polytechnique, with entrepreneurial training from ESADE Business School. He loves his family and his community now and generations ahead, which inspires him to work on energy storage and renewable energy projects to build a future that is sustainable and empowers all.
Devin is a Mi’Kmaq from Natoaganeg (Eel Ground) First Nation and is a father to two wonderful boys. He works as the Fisheries Coordinator at Mi’gmawe’l Tplu’taqnn Inc. (MTI) and is responsible for overseeing fisheries consultations as well as assisting in the review of natural resource projects for potential environmental effects that could impact First Nations’ rights. Devin has always been a proponent of green energy integration and has been involved in the development of green energy projects in the past. His goal in the program is to gain the skills necessary to help guide the Mi’Kmaq communities of New Brunswick to become leaders in the implementation of green energy.
Originally from Kuujjuaq, Quebec, Dave works for the Makivik Corporation in Montreal, Quebec. Dave joined Makivik’s Economic Development Department as a Business Development Officer and works directly with the Director of Economic Development on energy projects for the Nunavik region.
Dave’s interest in the 20/20 Catalyst Program is based on the goal of implementing clean energy systems in the Nunavik region. Makivik is leading efforts to introduce wind, solar, and marine hydrokinetic systems to reduce diesel consumption for electricity generation in the off-grid Nunavik communities. Dave has a particular interest as climate change is directly affecting his community and region. Dave also wishes to learn more about tools to gain better community engagement in these efforts and increase participation and awareness of the positive outcomes of clean and renewable energy systems.
Darin has lived his lifetime in Haida Gwaii in the Village of Old Massett on the northern shores of Haida Gwaii. Darin is a proud father and a grandfather. His background is as a building contractor, and he is an inter-provincially certified carpenter. He currently works for the Council of the Haida Nation as the Capital Works Department Manager and was recently appointed as the Energy Manager.
Haida Gwaii is powered by diesel and Darin’s goal for Haida Gwaii to be an energy sovereign nation and maximize economic opportunities and job creation through renewable energy.
Dana Tizya-Tramm was born and raised in the Yukon Territory, and is a proud member of the Vuntut Gwitchin First Nation. From a young age, Dana showed strengths in communications and team building which has served him well in the youth societies and initiatives that he has both started, and helped to develop. Bridging Indigenous ways of knowing with western best practices, Dana continues to “break trail” for the coming generations, and now in his position on council with his self-governing First Nation, he is working through projects like his small rural communities solar energy project. This project will be the largest in the Canadian Arctic and is just the beginning as his people continue to live with their environment, now through new technologies. The 20/20 Catalysts Program offers Dana the opportunity to gain insight and experience to better serve his community, Nation, and the world at large.
Chantelle Cardinal is a member from Whitefish Lake #128 (Goodfish Lake), Alberta. She has been working with First Nations in Alberta for over 14 years. Chantelle is currently employed as the Director of Housing and Environment for the Stoney Nakoda Tsuut’ina Tribal Council (G4) and is responsible for guiding and assisting the Tribal Council on engagement and project management on the Government of Alberta’s Indigenous Climate Leadership Initiative (ICLI). As part of being the Climate Change Coordinator for the G4, responsibilities also include leading and directing activities related to climate change, energy efficiency and renewable energy development while working with communities to increase climate literacy.
Calvin is a proud member of the Mikisew Cree people. Walking in two worlds, he has braided western and traditional teachings to benefit the community of Fort Chipewyan, Alberta, and the Athabasca region. He moved back home in 2014 as a Community Liaison/substitute teacher at Athabasca Delta Community School in Fort Chip and to manage a local store. From 2017 to 2020, Calvin served as elected Councillor of the Mikisew Cree First Nation. His accomplishments included a leadership role in securing funding for a new water treatment for his people. During his term, he worked hard to build up Mikisew’s economic and environmental capacity to create a path towards sovereignty while making space at the table for environmental protection through indigenous inclusion.
He also served as a Director of Mikisew Group of Companies 2017-2020 and Co-Chair for Mikisew Government-Industry Relations, where he was a part of the 49 per cent interest deal in Suncor’s East Tank Farm Development (ETFD)(November 2017) and part of phase 1 of the Kitaskino Nuwenëné Wildland Park (March 2018).
Calvin was active in the 2018 founding and start-up of Three Nations Energy – a 100 per cent indigenous-owned partnership responsible for developing, owning and operating a 2.35 MW Fort Chipewyan Solar Farm. He also played a lead role in initiating several green energy/housing projects with Mikisew Cree First Nation.
Since early high school, Calvin has been passionate about protecting and stewarding Mother Earth and, specifically, the significance of Indigenous climate action as we transition into a climate-friendly world. Calvin was an early 20/20 Catalyst program participant with Indigenous Clean Energy. He now serves on the ICE Advisory Council and is a coach and mentor for the 20/20 catalyst program and the Generation Power Program. In 2021, he also acted as facilitator/host of Indigenous Clean Energy’s “Power hour” webinar.
Calvin has recently joined Greenplanet Energy Analytics as an Advisor, Technology Analyst and Community Educator. At the same time, he continues working with youth, elders and the community in Fort Chipewyan and beyond on a wide range of social, cultural and environmental initiatives.
Blaine Chislett is from Rankin Inlet Nunavut and is the maintenance manager for a Nunavut birthrate investment and properties company. He is a proud father of three beautiful girls and he would like to see the north as a clean and affordable place to raise his kids and future generations. He hopes to see the territory slowing move away from its heavy diesel-dependent ways and invest into cleaner green energy.
Originally from Dorchester, Ontario. He is the current Executive Director of the Nunavut Economic Developers Association (NEDA), a membership-driven organization assisting community Economic Development Officers (EDOs) and economic development professionals in Nunavut. Before joining NEDA and moving to Iqaluit, Bill worked for the Hamlet of Kugluktuk as the Economic Development Officer. During this time, with direction from the Hamlet council, Bill was the lead on the Kugluktuk Solar and Efficiency projects.
Andrew Oler works in the Sahtu Community of Tulita, NWT. Tulita is heavily reliant on diesel-generated power. Andrew is interested in assisting the diesel reliant off-grid community of Tulita to build localized renewable energy capacity while nurturing: economic opportunities, community-driven initiatives, and long-term sustainability planning.
Wanda Westhaver is a Mikmaw woman from Nova Scotia. She has been employed as an Employment/Training Officer with Acadia First Nation for the past 20 years. Wanda has a keen interest in learning more about green technology and sustainable energy projects. The timing of this training couldn’t be better as Nova Scotia Power is undertaking a huge project over the next 10 – 12 years to upgrade their six Hydroelectric Generating Stations on the Mersey River. This program will assist Acadia First Nation to be ready to take full advantage of opportunities for community members.
Vincent became interested in renewable energy when he was a younger man in his 20s. Vincent’s interest grew from his late grandfather, Isaac Beardy’s, desire to see hydro generating turbines situated along the Severn River in Bearskin Lake. Vincent attended the Ontario Water Power Association workshop in Thunder Bay in summer 2016 and learned about the different companies, different software for calculating the costs of building the infrastructure, and building business partnerships with First Nations communities and the private sector. Vincent is the Community Consultation Officer for the Michikan Lands and Resources Department in his community.
Tristan is a former youth program coordinator for Chiniki First Nation. Now, working as a volunteer community ski coach and one of the founders of the first Stoney Nakoda Lost Wolves ski team, one of Tristan’s main goals is to raise healthy young people in his community. The Chiniki First Nation is in the process of setting up a Solar Power Plant on the west side of the reserve, which will have an estimated power production of 40MW. The community’s plan is to start construction some time this summer and complete the nation’s first renewable energy project.
Stacey is both a member and an employee of Leq’á:mel First Nation (LFN). She has been working with LFN since 2009 where she started as a steonographer for leadership and committee meetings. Since 2012, Stacey has been working within the lands department on projects that carry out LFN’s priorities under Land Code. Stacey’s passion is around preserving and protecting the environment in a holistic way that includes educating people and meeting the needs of today’s society while preserving and protecting the land for future generations.
Samantha works as the Energy and Mines Coordinator for Mi’gmawe’l Tplu’taqnn Inc. (MTI). MTI is a not-for-profit, rights-based Mi’gmaq organization whose members are the nine Mi’gmaq First Nation communities located throughout the Province of New Brunswick. Samantha is the primary contact for energy and mining projects and her role is to ensure that Mi’gmaq rights are recognized, affirmed and protected within the energy and mining sector. Her goal within the organization is to help the Mi’gmaq obtain better opportunities by advancing energy projects that are safe and sustainable for the environment, which will help mitigate impacts of climate change.
Michael is a member of Pimicikamak Cree Nation in Northern Manitoba. He proudly works as a community medical doctor in Pikangikum First Nation in Northwestern Ontario. Michael believes that, to truly address the health of people in any community one must put attention towards energy security and economic development. Thus, he has been developing interests in these areas. He completed a certificate in Best Practices in Indigenous Business and Economic Development at The Banff Centre. In addition, plans are in place to pursue an executive MBA in Aboriginal Business and Leadership at Beedie School of Business in Vancouver. As the clean energy lead for the Pikangikum First Nation, Michael is interested in developing opportunities for the community as they move forward with connection to the provincial power grid as a new partner for the Wataynikaneyap Power Project and grid extension.
Melissa is from the Kainai Nation in southwestern Alberta. She brings industry experience in environmental design, construction, and project management to a leadership position with the Indigenous Sustainable Structures Collaborative. In her role as Executive Advisor, Melissa is honoured to be working with a passionate group of industry professionals committed to a common goal: providing environmentally sustainable building systems that are culturally appropriate and clean energy compatible. She and her team believe that access to affordable, high-quality, resilient buildings is a critical factor to overcoming many of the social, environmental, and economic challenges faced by First Nations and Inuit communities across Canada.
Lisa Francis is a Mi’kmaq from Acadia First Nation, Nova Scotia with a background in Human Resource Management and Industrial Relations from Saint Mary’s University. She received Professional Aboriginal Economic Development Certification (PAED) in August 2008 and International Business Training with Nova Scotia Community College (NSCC) in 2004. Lisa spent 15 years with Acadia First Nation working in community economic development. As a mentor and regional Mi’kmaq chair on several economic development fronts, she was a strong voice of the Mi’kmaq people receiving House of Assembly recognition and featured in the Wabanaki People of the Dawn regarding culture, heritage, archaeology and green energy sustainability. In 2015, she obtained the first Aboriginal Relations Advisor position with Nova Scotia Power, and currently continues to establish the foundation of Aboriginal Affairs within the company.
Leonard was born at Jackfish Lake and is a member of the Athabasca Chipewyan First Nation (ACFN). Leonard studied “Native Communication” at Grant MacEwan College in Edmonton. He then went to work for “Industry” at Suncor, known as G.C.O.S. Later, Leonard moved into Housing Construction in Fort McMurray as the city was booming in the mid-70s. Today, Leonard is employed with the ACFN, drafting an Emergency Evacuation Plan. His community already has two solar panel systems installed. Within the next years, ACFN would like all 89 residential units and those currently being constructed, to have solar panels installed.
Lee was born in Lac La Biche, Alberta and is a member of the Kikino Métis Settlement. Lee worked in the oil and gas industry for many years before moving to the Alberta Pacific Forest industry. From there, he was elected as the Vice-Chairman for the Kikino Métis Settlement administration. Lee became involved with climate change when he was offered a position as the Climate Change Coordinator at the Métis Settlements General Council in Edmonton, AB. His focus is to assist all eight Métis Settlements in Northern Alberta with their green initiatives and to help reduce GHGs. Within the next few years, Lee hopes to educate and assist the Métis Settlements with installing solar panels, retrofitting housing and promoting clean energy.
Ms. Scott is founder and principal investigator of Kishk Anaquot Health Research (KAHR), an independent Indigenous owned and operated consulting firm specializing in strategic planning, program design, performance measurement, partnership development and environmental sustainability with a varied client base of universities, government departments, professional associations, international and non-governmental organizations, school boards, health centres and communities. Her career spans a broad spectrum of activities related to public health, governance, comprehensive sustainability planning as well as international, organizational, and community development. Ms. Scott holds a Master of Science from the University of Waterloo. She is a member of the International Society of Sustainability Professionals and the Canadian Sustainability Indicators Network. Her professional interests include advancing democracy through distributed, community-owned clean energy systems, reinforcing moral independence and self-directing freedom for Indigenous communities through energy independence and amplifying the nexus between human health, energy, and environmental integrity.
Kim Nash-McKinley, B.A. is a citizen of the Wolasttogiyik Nation, a Former Chief and recipient of the Queen Elizabeth II Diamond Jubilee Medal, which she received for her commitment and dedication of over 20 years to issues that affect the off-reserve Indigenous Peoples; provincially in New Brunswick, regionally in the Maritimes and nationally in Canada through participation in the Congress of Aboriginal Peoples.
Nash-McKinley has over 25 years of serving on a variety of Boards and Commissions at the local, provincial, regional, and national levels, and has served as the inaugural Anglophone co-chair for the Voices of Women’s Forum, and she is a past member of the New Brunswick Health Council.
Nash-McKinley is a current member of the Board of Kings Landing, the AtlanticLeona Provinces Economic Council (APEC), was one of a group of five cofounders for the Indigenous Tourism Association New Brunswick (ITANB) and she is currently employed as the Director of Economic Development for Kingsclear First Nation.
Juanie grew up in Resolute Bay, Nunavut. After high school, he went to university and studied Electrical Engineering. He became interested in energy while working for the power utility, Qulliq Energy Corporation. Nunavut is highly dependent on fossil fuels and Juanie has been researching ways to reduce fuel usage and maybe use alternative energies to heat and power homes. Juanie recognizes that many technologies exist that can help but finding a way to overcome many obstacles in the far north is difficult. Juanie now works for the Nunavut Housing Corporation as Director of Infrastructure.
Joe is a member Mohawks of Akwesasne Territory. He has dual citizenship and works on both sides of the border. Joe has been a career electrician for over 25 years. He also has a Master’s in the electrical field. Joe works for and maintains the Mohawk Council of Akwesasne’s infrastructure, building electrical equipment, and upgrading systems for energy savings. Joe has been looking for ways to harness local energy, including the great amount of water flowing around his community with great speeds and great volumes of water.
As a First Nation member, elected official and an environmental steward, Desmond was honoured to research and develop the initiative for the Louis Bull Tribe’s PV system (Solar Project). Desmond worked closely with his community and with Gridworks Energy, completing public buildings assessments, applying for a First Nation infrastructure grant, and working on strategic planning for the solar project. This work also opened opportunities for Desmond to sit with The Green Economy Network in Edmonton and Energy Futures Lab of Alberta, become appointed to the Alberta Energy Efficiency Advisory Panel, and be voted to the Alberta Solar Energy Society.
Six Nations of the Grand River Development Corporation, ON
Description
Darryl is a Mohawk of the Six Nations of the Grand River Territory who has worked his entire professional career in various First Nation government organizations. He started out as a Capital Management Officer with Indigenous & Northern Affairs Canada working on various infrastructure projects. Darryl has a diverse background and vast experience obtained while working with organizations such as a First Nation philanthropic fund, provincial aboriginal sport body, civil engineering consulting firm and First Nations. He has recently worked with the Oneida Nation of the Thames and his home community of Six Nations working on community energy plans. He hopes to expand his renewable energy credentials and is presently employed as an energy planner for the Six Nations of the Grand River Development Corporation.
As General Manager of the Kluane Community Development Corporation, Colin works with government, industry partners, and Kluane First Nation Citizens to enhance local economic opportunities, attract investment in community builds and infrastructure and implement projects that encourage community growth in Burwash Landing and throughout the traditional territory of Kluane First Nation. Colin is a long-time resident and an active member of the Kluane Region, and he also sits on the Dän Keyi Renewable Resource Council.
Blair Hogan is a Teslin Tlingit First Nation Citizen who has a strong history of effective community leadership in business development, economic development, and intergovernmental relations. Blair has assisted his self-governing first nation, the Teslin Tlingit Council and Community of Teslin, in developing political and financial strategies to access a wide-range of funds necessary to facilitate local community development and local opportunity creation. One of the biggest successes from Blair’s tenure as Executive Councillor is the successful development, launch, and long-term financing of Teslin’s local economic development agency, the Dèslin Development Corporation (DDC). Also working with various directors and subject matter experts to determine the best approaches to developing and capturing own source revenue as a self-governing First Nation and working to create multiple opportunities for the community.
Blair has also helped the community of Teslin, Yukon implement one of the Yukon’s most successful biomass district heating systems supplied from locally sourced wood chips.
Barrie Ford grew up in Kuujjuaq, Nunavik, Quebec. During high school, he was fortunate enough to get a summer job at the local biological station. It was here that Barrie was exposed to the work of the Nunavik Research Centre. From an early age, he participated in several programs such as water sampling, ageing Salmon, and surveying geese. Barrie has completed a diploma in Natural Science from John Abbott College and a B.Sc. in Wildlife Biology from McGill’s Macdonald Campus. Barrie has now worked with the Makivik Corporation, an Inuit birthright organization, for over 10 years on a number of files ranging from biology, mining policy, community engagement to science facilitation.
Andres is a chemical engineering graduate with a background in education, environmental risk management, and energy and sustainability. Andres joined the Métis Nation of Alberta in early 2017 and led the MNA’s Climate Change Action Plan. Currently, his team is exploring opportunities in energy efficiency and installing a solar project at the MNA facilities. While Andres sees significant challenges in the fight against climate change, he also believes there is room for communities and individuals to reap substantial benefits such as reduced energy costs, new jobs and businesses, and environmental and health benefits. His interest in the 20/20 Catalysts Program comes from wanting to learn about what other communities have accomplished and understand how these could help the MNA’s Climate Change Action Plan.
Neqotkuk Maliseet Nation (Tobique First Nation), NB
Description
Tanna is a very proud Wolastoqiyik (people of the beautiful and bountiful river) from the Neqotkuk Maliseet Nation (Tobique First Nation) in New Brunswick. She graduated from the University of New Brunswick in 2006. Following a 15-year career in the federal public service, she worked for the past six and half years as the Senior Band Administrator. She previously held the position of CEO of Band Operations for five years; she is the first female to hold these positions in her community and is very proud of that.
Tanna can be found helping communities advance to a more sustainable future for all generations to come.
Tanna has been passionate about advancing indigenous and environmental rights for over 20 years. She devotes much of her free time to assisting and advancing various committees and organizations for more Indigenous inclusion and participation. Tanna has been with us on the Board of Directors of ICE for the past three years and brings a wealth of traditional knowledge and government knowledge to our Board.
Regina Jacobs is a registered First Nation member of the Mohawk Council of Akwesasne (MCA – Canada) & the St. Regis Mohawk Tribe (SRMT- United States).
Regina began her career in Emergency Management in 2004 as a hobby and it bloomed into a career after meeting her predecessor, Mr. Lawrence “Larry” White, who was the Emergency Manager for the Mohawk Council of Akwesasne for 18 years. Mr. White retired from MCA in 2010, and Regina became his successor that same year. She currently chairs the Akwesasne & Local Emergency Planning Committee (ALECP) and sits on the International Association of Emergency Managers (IAEM) Standards and Practices committee – representing First Nations. She is also a co-researcher/consultant for the Applied Research in Environmental Sciences Nonprofit, Inc. (ARIES), organized and operated for charitable, scientific, and educational purposes. ARIES is a research association in which multidisciplinary/interdisciplinary projects such as USC Center for Risk and Economic Analysis of Terrorism Events (CREATE) whose mission is to improve the Nation’s security through the development of advanced models and tools for the evaluation of the risks, costs, and consequences of terrorism, and to guide economically viable investments in homeland security. However, she shares all her success with the MCA’s Chief and Council, who are strong supporters of Emergency Management in Akwesasne as it addresses the various obstacles with being a multi-jurisdictional community.
Michelle is a member of the Xeni Gwet’in First Nations and was raised with Tsilhqot’in beliefs by her parents. She is currently pursuing degrees in Native Studies and Environmental Conservation. She has been part of several initiatives focused on issues related to land and climate change, including the Indigenous Climate Change Action Plan, Tla-O-Qui-Aht Tribal Parks Summit, Power Shift Alberta, and the Open Access Energy Summit. Michelle wants to support her community in developing a sustainable economy using the bountiful resources they have been gifted. She looks to support an energy-based strategy that will bring jobs into her community and protect Tsilhqot’in youth’s livelihoods for seven generations to come.
Melina is Lubicon Cree from Northern Alberta. She has worked on social, environmental and climate justice issues for the past 20 years. Melina is the Just Transition Director at Indigenous Climate Action, the Founder of Sacred Earth Solar and a Fellow at the David Suzuki Foundation. She is also the host of a TV series called Power to the People, which profiles renewable energy, food security and eco-housing projects in Indigenous communities across Canada.
Facing firsthand impacts of the Alberta tar sands in her traditional territory, Melina has been a vocal advocate for Indigenous rights and environmental justice. For over a decade, Melina worked as a Climate and Energy Campaigner with Greenpeace Canada and the Indigenous Environmental Network internationally. She has written for various publications and produced short documentaries on the tar sands, climate change, water issues and Indigenous cultural revitalization. Melina has studied, campaigned, and worked in Brazil, Australia, Mexico, Canada, and Europe, focusing on resource extraction, climate change impacts, media literacy, and Indigenous rights & responsibilities.
Melina also works on the issue of Murdered and Missing Indigenous Women in Canada after the suspicious death of her sister Bella whose case remains unsolved. Melina currently serves on the boards of Seeding Sovereignty and NDN Collective, as well as the executive steering committee of the Indigenous Clean Energy Social Enterprise.
JP Pinard is a professional engineer and a community wind and renewable energy researcher, consultant, advisor, and advocate. JP grew up in the northern mining town of Val-d’Or, Quebec, in James Bay Cree territory, and his ancestors came from France in 1647. He received his bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering at the University of Waterloo and wandered into Whitehorse in 1992. His calling to renewable energy came in 1996, and he returned to university (University of Alberta) to pursue a master’s degree and then a PhD on the wind climate of the mountainous Yukon. He has assessed the wind energy potential in dozens of communities across all three Territories of Northern Canada. JP’s vision for the Yukon and Canada’s remote communities is to be carbon-free and gain economic wealth from renewables and energy efficiency. His primary focus is to help the Kluane First Nation build a renewable energy future and share this experience with other champion communities across Canada’s North.
John Jensen has a degree from the University of Phoenix BSc in Business Management, and pursued a Master of Environmental Management from Royal Roads University. John was a director of the Yukon Energy Board. John is from the Gaanaxtedi Clan for the Carcross Tagish First Nation (CTFN). John has experience in directing private development of clean tech energy systems. John’s ambition is to create sustainable energy for the Yukon and work on business developments for the three corporations he owns. Currently, John is working on implementing Vision AI.
Grant has lived in the Beaufort Delta region for most of his life and understands the need for knowledge, understanding and caution as we endeavour to not only protect our environment but to safely expand and support resource development in our Region. He has seen the effects of climate change on lands, mountains, rivers and traditional lifestyles. He believes that clean energy development will assist residents of small communities to understand the value, cost-effectiveness, and application of clean energy initiatives to meet their energy needs and enhance their commitment to protecting the environment, land and resources.
As President of NEL, Grant has served as overall Project Lead/Coordinator for several renewable energy projects advanced by either Nihtat Corporation or NEL since 2018. This includes providing oversite/ direction in this capacity for the following projects: Inuvik High Point Wind Study (2016-2018), Multi-residential Solar Net Metering Demonstration project (January 2018-September 2019), Commercial Solar PV Installations in NWT and Nunavut (April 2018-May 2020). Work on each of these projects was initially advanced by Nihtat Corporation and then undertaken by NEL starting in May 2019.
Grant was a 20/20 Catalyst (2016) and is currently participating as an Energy Champion in the Indigenous Off-grid Diesel Initiative (IODI). Through NEL, Grant was the first Energy Champion in the IODI program to be awarded an $800,000 prize towards the pursuit of renewable energy initiatives. Through this initiative, NEL is pursuing a series of staged developments in the Beaufort Delta region in 2021 and 2022, including the implementation of a solar project at the Inuvik Satellite Station Facility (ISSF) site near Inuvik in 2021; a 150 kV Solar PV Installation in Aklavik, also in 2021; and planning for a 1 MW grid-connected solar farm in Inuvik to be completed in 2022.
As a Gwich’in participant, Grant has also been active in several Gwich’in organizations. This includes Gwich’in Settlement Corporation, Chair (responsible for 140 million in assets) (2012-2016); participation in Gwich’in/ Imperial Oil access and benefits negotiations regarding the Mackenzie Valley Pipeline; and lead business representative and board representative on the Nihtat Gwich’in Development Board. He was also the Executive Director of Gwich’in Council International (2012 – May 2019).
Through these experiences, Grant has gained extensive experience and knowledge of the business community, arctic logistics and Indigenous governments in the Beaufort-Delta region.
Eileen is a member of the Lutselke Dene First Nation in the Northwest Territories, however she resides in Yellowknife. She holds a Masters Degree in Communication Management from McMaster University. Eileen is keenly aware of the importance of strategic communications, public relations, Indigenous relations, and public and Indigenous engagement on projects and other major initiatives that involve a variety of people coming together. She has conducted research on How and to What Extent do Government Communications Impact Trust and Indigenous Relations: Recommendations to Build Strategic Relationships. Eileen emphasizes the importance of Indigenous inclusiveness and ‘Indigenous lens’ at every project planning table that involve Indigenous governments. She has experience in a variety of settings from non-profit, to industry, to Indigenous governance, and to western governance. Eileen worked on the Taltson Hydro Expansion Project with the Government of Northwest Territories as the Indigenous Relations Advisor and now works as the Manager of Communications, Engagement, and Partnerships with the Mackenzie Valley Review Board. She firmly believes in building Indigenous capacity for major energy projects or other major initiatives that involve Indigenous.
Ed Genova is a Mi’kmaq from Metepenagiag First Nation. He graduated from the University of New Brunswick in Biology and Physical Education.
Ed worked as an educator and administrator for 10 years. In 2007, he left the education field to work in the industry and has been with New Brunswick Power Corporation for over 10 years. As a part of the First Nations Affairs Team at NB Power, Ed has had the opportunity to take human resource management and energy fundamentals for leaders. His work has helped him improve relations, deal with legacy issues, offer guidance, support and facilitation to Indigenous communities here in NB.
Ed has been given the opportunity to work with many Indigenous organizations, Government departments, funding agencies and Indigenous people in various areas of the workforce. He is a passionate educator and believes that in order for communities to reach self-sufficiency, more capacity-building is needed.
Dylan Whiteduck was recently elected Chief of Kitigan Zibi Anishinabeg in August 2020. As Chief, he advocates for their lands & rights and ensures their interests/voices are heard.
As the former Economic Development Officer for Kitigan Zibi Anishinabeg, Mr. Whiteduck is proud to be a part of the success and achievements in the economic development portfolio. He is a First Nation business graduate student from Algonquin College in the Business Management & Entrepreneurship program. He is passionate about businesses, marketing, events, finances, sales, and computers; and possesses strong leadership, organizational and interpersonal skills. His work focuses on bringing economic development opportunities to the Kitigan Zibi Anishinabeg First Nation community.
David ran in a community election for a Councillor position a few years ago. While he didn’t win the election, his main platform was going for Renewable Energy as his community has been on a Connection Restriction since March 2014. Connection restriction stunts growth. Although he had no experience, a job opportunity was available as Energy Coordinator a month and a half after the election, which he applied to and got the position. David has a keen interest in Clean Renewable Energy and is passionate about having his community attain that. David’s other goal is to have minimal reliance on diesel in his community of North Caribou Lake First Nation. He wants to learn as much as he can so he can achieve that goal for his community. Presently, they are looking into an innovative project of acquiring Housing to stand alone and rely solely on Renewable Energy. David is also the Community Worker for the Remote Electrification Readiness Program for the Wataynikineyap Power transmission project.
Darrell Brown is a Cree business owner based in Winnipeg, MB. Darrell is the President of Kisik Clean Energy and Kisik Commercial Furniture. He is a 2004 founding member and current chair of the Aboriginal Chamber of Commerce based in Manitoba. He holds an Advanced Diploma in International Business from Red River College in Manitoba and a Certificate of Indigenous Leadership, Governance and Management Excellence from the Banff Centre. Darrell holds the designation of ICD.D from The Rotman, Directors Education Program through The Institute for Corporate Directors. Darrell also has a certificate in the 20/20 Catalyst program focusing on the Indigenous Renewable Energy Sector.
As a Volunteer Firefighter and Building Inspector for his community, Corey has been striving to find the best solutions for the Akwesasne community. For him, one of these solutions will be clean and efficient energy. The 20/20 Catalyst program was brought to his attention through the Economic Department with Mohawk Council of Akwesasne (MCA) as project lead in the Aboriginal Conservation Program (ACP), implemented in Akwesasne in 2015 and delivered by First Nations Engineers Services Limited (FNESL). This program was a huge success for qualified community members of Akwesasne. With the ACP, they were able to provide energy-efficient appliances and add insulation to over 200 homes to reduce the energy bills. The amount of teamwork involved to accomplish this task due to time constraints was astonishing. Some of his roles were: holding community meetings, scheduling radio talk shows, and aide in the community launch of the program.
Corey obtained a Diploma in Home Inspection through the Academy of Learning College in Cornwall; this was a two-year program studying with Carson Dunlop and mentors. He has been the Building Inspector for MCA since 2013. Since then, he has taken many other training courses for continuing education, such as Building Code courses from Ontario Building Officials Association (OBOA). This includes House 2012, Legal Process for Building Officials, On-site Sewage Systems 2012, and Residential Plumbing Inspection. With his knowledge of the home and all installed components, he believes that the Catalyst program was a good fit for himself and the Akwesasne community.
“Our culture and restoration are critical in regaining values that have been slipping away over the many years. I have three children, a 21-year-old daughter, a 17-year-old son and a 10-year-old daughter. My children were raised with their culture and language. As our culture promotes the future of the next seven generations, Akwesasne can only benefit from alternative clean energy. It would be an honour to be part of the implementing process for clean energy for the Akwesasne community.”
Chantel was born and raised in Winnipeg, MB., and was the first in her family to earn a high school diploma, attend college and earn a Bachelor’s & Master’s degree. After her schooling, Chantel moved to Montreal and became involved in Missing Justice at the Centre for Gender Advocacy. She also joined the board of the Native Women’s Shelter of Montreal and the Centre for Gender Advocacy. Chantel became interested in environmental issues, solar power, economic emancipation for women, and women empowerment through school and volunteer work.
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). Her 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. She presently has projects in motion with four communities and has proposals out with many more Nations. In the winter of 2018, Cara was awarded to CERRC bioheat projects, which have grown to have a sawmill and winter wood program. The synergy and employment opportunities for both the remotes were 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 help them with things they want and need relating to energy. The lessons learned and the people she met in the 20/20 program have empowered her to achieve the things 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 a member of the Advisory Committee is an honour and a blessing. She is forever grateful for what she has learned and the path she is on.
