Meet the Catalysts

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Crystal Nicholas

WMA Limited

Description

Crystal Nicholas is an experienced leader in economic development and strategic management, currently serving as the President & Interim General Manager at Wskijinu’k Mtmo’taqnuow Agency Ltd. (WMA). She oversees the agency’s executive functions and drives its strategic initiatives, working closely with the 13 Chiefs of the Mi’kmaw First Nations to promote sustainable economic growth.

Crystal’s extensive career includes key roles in advancing Potlotek First Nation’s development, where she served as Acting Economic Development Manager, Chief Financial Officer, and Chief Executive Officer. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science from Cape Breton University and has completed advanced programs in Management Essentials and Negotiation Mastery at Harvard Business School. Crystal is also pursuing a JD at Dalhousie University. Crystal brings valuable skills in financial management, project leadership, and strategic planning to WMA. Crystal is a proud member of Potlotek First Nation​.

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Brayden Mark E. Holenstein

Westbank First Nation

Description

My name is Brayden Euverman-Holenstein and I was born and raised in Telkwa, BC. My family is part of the Wet’suwet’en First Nation and proudly so. In February 2017, I moved to Kelowna, BC and studied Business at Okanagan College. 

After graduating, I took a job with Westbank First Nation as the new Recording Clerk. In this role I was able to learn the government structure and how each department operated at an accelerated rate. By sitting on every board and committee within the government, including all Chief and Council meetings, I was able to become a versatile employee for the community. 

After serving as the Recording Clerk for two years, I moved my skills and training into the Intergovernmental Affairs and Title & Rights department where I currently work as a Referrals Officer. 

I am privileged to be a part of the Westbank First Nation team and look forward to many more years here. 

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Jesmine Craig

Chippewas of the Thames First Nation, Deshkan Ziibiing

Description

Ziigwan Nangoons Ndizhinakaaz, Nimkii Benesii Ndoodem, Deshkan Ziibiing Ndoonjibaa, Zhaganash, Odawa, Ojibwe AnishinaabeKwe Ndaaw. 

Ziigwan Nangoons a proud member of Deshkan Ziibiing Nation and her clan is ThunderBird, She is a Scottish, Odawa, Ojibwe Anishinaabe woman. 

She obtained a diploma in Anishinaabemowin at Fanshawe College. She works as a Clean Energy Youth Intern in Deshkan Ziibiing. She enjoys blending culture into her work as an Intern by bringing language revitalization into community clean energy engagements and youth leadership initiatives in her community. 

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Drew Daniel Stewart

Métis Nation British Columbia (MNBC)

Description

Drew Stewart is Senior Manager, Climate Change, Policies & Programs at Métis Nation British Columbia (MNBC) and graduate of the London School of Economics and Political Science. His work focusses on transitioning the Métis Nation to renewables and low carbon technology, promoting nature-based climate solutions, and promoting emergency preparedness. Drew is a proud MNBC citizen and lives with gratitude on the traditional and unceded territory of the xʷməθkʷəy̓əm (Musqueam), Sḵwx̱wú7mesh (Squamish), and səlilwətaɬ (Tsleil-Waututh) Nations in Vancouver, Canada.

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Tana-Ray Campion Jones

Tk̓emlúps te Secwépemc – KIBDC

Description

Tana Jones, Michel First Nation (AB), is a Real Estate and Land Development Specialist with KIBDC (Tk’emlúps te Secwépemc Land Development, a subsidiary of Sc.wén̓wen Economic Development Corporation). Her portfolio includes leasing and development projects, among which is a proposed renewable fuel facility at 7Mile District (learn more at https://7miledistrict.ca/7mile-renewable-fuels/).

Having previously worked in the legal industry for over a decade, Tana recently completed a Master of Business Administration and a Leadership in Environmental Sustainability Certification, both from Thompson Rivers University. Outside of work and her seemingly never-ending educational/learning pursuits, Tana is likely working on restoration or salvage projects with carpenter husband, Josh, on walks with her rescued corgi, Bisquit, or chasing after her small niece and nephew.

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Bradley Dokkie

West Moberly First Nations

Description

Bradley Dokkie is a member of West Moberly First Nations (Cree and Dunne-za), located in Northeastern BC, within Treaty 8 territory. Brad holds the title of Community Energy Champion at WMFN, a position which he’s held since it’s recent introduction into the organization in July of 2024.

Though moderately new to the clean energy space, Brad has a carried a longstanding interest in renewable energy and sustainability, with notable work experience which demonstrates that. In previous roles, Brad spent some time working in the wind industry, assisting in the servicing and maintenance of wind turbines. As well as more recently, gaining experience in solar installations on West Moberly’s community wide residential solar project, where he was involved in a variety of steps throughout the project. Brad has also had the opportunity to sit on Council for his nation, which helped him to gain valuable insights around community planning and project development.

Since starting as WMFN’s Community Energy Champion, Brad has actively pursued training to enhance his knowledge on clean energy solutions, completing a number of programs and courses such as: a “Strategies for Sustainability” Micro-certificate, a “Solar Energy Development” course, and receiving a “Solar PV Design and Installation” certificate.

As a key objective in his position, Brad will lead the development of a Community Energy Plan for West Moberly, which is targeted to be completed over the next year. As the position progresses, Brad is also becoming more involved in other exciting energy projects and green initiatives that West Moberly is exploring.

Outside of his professional aspirations, Brad is a dedicated father and considers this to be his most important role. He prefers to spend his free time outdoors, with some of his favourite activities being skateboarding, biking, canoeing, and running. Being 10 years sober, Brad is also a passionate advocate for sobriety and prioritizes self-development in his personal life. He hopes to inspire others towards a healthier path, encouraging the pursuit of activities and practices that promote spiritual, physical and mental well-being.

That is why Brad considers this work to be so important, as the need to transition to cleaner energy sources is a critical component to ensuring the health and well-being of our people and our planet

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Jayme Leanne Jen Johnson

Bilijk (Kingsclear) First Nation

Description

A proud Wolastoqey woman and mother, Jayme has spent 15 years serving communities in high-level leadership roles, including Director of Operations for both her home community, Sitansisk (St. Mary’s First Nation) and sister community, Bilijk (Kingsclear First Nation). Jayme is a dedicated and experienced legal and administrative professional with a strong commitment to Indigenous governance and community development.

Jayme began her career in law, practicing in the areas of Aboriginal and Treaty Rights litigation and Criminal Law. She has worked both independently and with law firms, bringing her legal acumen into community governance through roles such as Policy Development Officer and Legal Counsel.

Holding a Bachelor of Arts and a Bachelor of Laws from the University of New Brunswick, Jayme is a barrister and solicitor in good standing with the New Brunswick Law Society. Her legal and operational expertise is matched by a deep personal commitment to advancing the well-being and rights of Indigenous peoples. She is known for her integrity, humility, and passion for creating systemic change that supports future generations.

Jayme is a collaborative leader who values listening, learning, and walking each day in a good way—striving always to bring open-hearted, solution-focused leadership to her work. She is passionate about creating economic independence and sovereignty for Indigenous communities through sustainable initiatives to create generational wealth in communities.

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Jessica Wakefield

Chippewas of Kettle and Stony Point First Nation/ Three Fires Group

Description

Jess is a proud member of the Kettle and Stony Point First Nation and currently leads the consultation department in her community. She aims to increase community involvement in all projects and works with proponents to find solutions that align with community priorities in conservation, youth empowerment, social wellbeing and economic development. She aims to build long-term relationships with clean energy partners in the territory to support generational wealth for her community and incorporate community values into these major energy projects. Jess completed a graduate degree in Environmental Sustainability, a Master of Science degree in Rural Planning and Development and is currently working towards her professional planning designation. Her masters research focused on urban and regional planning through a First Nation lens, questioning the colonial foundations or planning and exploring the interconnection of economic reconciliation and Indigenous-led Nation-building. Her late grandmother, Melva George, is a key area of inspiration for her work.

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Kristie Halka-Glazier

Oinpegitjoig – Mi’gmawe’l Tplu’taqnn

Description

Kristie Halka-Glazier, Ewipgeg (Stillwaters), is the Director of Energy & Mines with Mi’gmawe’l Tplu’taqnn Inc. (MTI); an Indigenous and Treaty Rights-based organization whose members include all nine Mi’gmaq communities of New Brunswick. Within Kristie’s eight years with MTI, Kristie created a directorate for the Energy & Mines department, and now leads a growing staff of six, their focus based upon facilitating consultations and sharing crucial information with communities and stakeholders through meetings with proponents, governments, and agencies. Her team also collaborates with partners and communities on green energy projects like solar and wind to promote sustainable development, and they work to prevent and mitigate negative impacts on the traditional territory of Mi’gmag’i from proposed energy and mining projects.

Kristie, a proud Mi’gmaq from Oinpegitjoig (Pabineau) First Nation, is devoted to, and spends much time with her family, especially her four grown children, and four grandchildren. She’s also passionate about working with MTI’s Mi’gmaq communities towards self-sufficiency. She and her husband both play and work hard, spending much time enjoying the great outdoors snowmobiling and off-road driving with their RZR Pro R.

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Maureen Joanne Mary Charlie

Vuntut Gwitchin First Nation 

Description

Born and raised in the Yukon, Maureen is a proud member of the Vuntut Gwitchin First Nation from Old Crow. Deeply rooted in her community and culture, she’s dedicated her career to supporting Indigenous well-being and sustainability. She has worked with Natural Resources within her own First Nation government, when the Sree Vyaa Solar Project was beginning. She has also worked for the Council of Yukon First Nation (CYFN) in the Health department, focusing on community and family health. In 2024, Maureen began working with Northern Energy Innovation (NEI) at the Yukon University, where she contributes to advancing clean energy solutions for northern communities. Her work is driven by a commitment to empowering First Nations and building a sustainable future grounded in Indigenous knowledge and innovation. 

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Ay’Den D. Abraham

Frog Lake First Nations

Description

Ay’Den D. Abraham (25) is an up and coming Clean Energy Champion in his nation of Frog Lake First Nations located in Treaty six territory land of the Cree, Saulteaux, Nakota Sioux and Dene peoples of so called Canada.

He holds many roles in the nation and now the title of Top 25 Under 25 Environmentalist and Change Maker through The Starfish Canada and also sits on the Youth Steering Committee for The Youth Habour.
He is a Champion of Change through the Global Indigenous Development Trust’s masterclass.

Ay’Den is very involved within the ICE network as well, being one of the first participants to take part in most programming offered through Indigenous Clean Energy.

His work is primarily focused on bringing in new economic development opportunities that involve Sustainable Technologies & Development to his nation as he and his team are considered to be under the guise of Ec. Dev. This allowed he and his team to take up opportunities within Cando as well. 

All while empowering the youth by providing them with resources and tools to attend conferences, workshops and other events. His duties include coordinating emails and meetings between partners, document/budget creation and reporting, grant application work and various other tasks. 
He occasionally volunteers for the local Fire Hall as well as he is a certified firefighter.

Ay’Den firmly believes “We are the living testament to our ancestors prayers” a saying he has and lives by staying true to his virtues and plains Cree teachings.

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Donna Mathieson

Raven Ozhigaa Development

Description

Donna is a proud First Nations woman. She is a member of Minegoziibe Anishinabe (formerly Pine Creek First Nation). Donna found herself moved by both the work and recommendations of the Truth & Reconciliation Commission to form a FEDERALLY INCORPORATED not-for-profit residential construction business, focused specifically on the plight and the poor housing conditions of Indigenous people living both on- and off-reserve.

Donna has spent 20 years in the residential construction industry, beginning as a tradesperson. Over time, she worked her way up from being a labourer to becoming a project manager. During her career in private residential development, she has helped deliver more than $500M in projects. Donna has been featured in a national campaign with Canadian Construction Association and is the Manitoba Representative for Startup Canada Women campaign.

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Brooke McLeod

Moose Cree First Nation

Description

Wâciye – Brooke McLeod is a proud member of Moose Cree First Nation, born and raised in Moose Factory, Ontario, on Treaty 9 territory. She currently serves as the Community Energy Champion for her community, where she supports local clean energy initiatives. Brooke plays a vital role in Moose Cree’s biomass program, helping to ensure boilers remain operational through the colder seasons, while also identifying opportunities for biomass retrofits and integrating these systems into new builds. In addition, she is involved in advancing solar energy initiatives and supporting energy efficiency retrofits for community buildings, with a focus on reducing greenhouse gas emissions and lowering energy costs for Moose Cree members.

She holds a diploma in Chemical Engineering Technology from Cambrian College, bringing a strong technical foundation to her work. Brooke is committed to serving her community by advancing clean energy solutions and laying the groundwork for future generations.

Brooke is also a certified yoga instructor and has been sharing the healing benefits of yoga through local classes. In her spare time, she enjoys camping, fishing, hiking, and spending as much time on the land as possible.

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Nudrat Ihsan

Hamlet of Gjoa Haven

Description

Nudrat Ihsan is the Innovation and Research Projects Coordinator with the Hamlet of Gjoa Haven, Nunavut. She has been with the Hamlet Office since July 2024. She is an internationally trained Optometrist with three years of academic and research experience. Over the last year, she has transitioned her focus toward clean energy, specifically working on solar energy projects in the community of Gjoa Haven, Nunavut.

Nudrat’s hobbies include cooking, baking, being out on the land, and ice fishing in the Arctic.  

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Jamie Dale Brant

Mohawks of the Bay of Quinte

Description

Jamie is with the Mohawks of the Bay of Quinte hailing from Tyendinaga in Southern Ontario, and also has ties to the Fort Albany Cree of the James Bay Region. Residing in Tyendinaga now, Jamie accepted the position of Community Energy Champion and has been working to make energy efficient improvements to his community’s buildings for over a year now. Jamie has been in the energy sector for quite a few years, receiving his Registered Energy Advisor credentials in 2020, and recently his Certified Energy Manager credential in 2025.

Since working within MBQ administration Jamie has found a passion in renewable energies and is eager to learn about possible ways to help his community move towards the goal of becoming Net-Zero. MBQ is currently in the process of completing their first set of Net-Zero tiny homes and are very excited about the project. 

In his spare time he likes to stay busy with different sports including golf and volleyball. Jamie is a participant in ICE’s Bringing it Home Project Accelerator program, after attending one on-site already, he is looking forward to meeting his fellow cohorts and collaborating to help move forward all community’s clean energy goals. 

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Devon Morin

Samson Cree Nation

Description

Devon Morin was born and raised in Maskwacis, AB and is a member of the Ermineskin Cree Nation, which is one of the four First Nations in Maskwacis. Devon went to school for Business Administration and studied at Maskwacis Cultural College. Devon is currently the Renewable Energy Coordinator of Samson Cree Nation. He has been with (SCN) since 2022. Devon is proud of the accomplishment in the past 3 years. The vision of (SCN) is to become a example of renewable energies in First Nation communities. Devon is excited to learn more about the extensive areas of renewable technologies and its benefits towards sustainable energies in first nations communities.

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Joey Daniel Montour

Mountian Cree Camp

Description

Joey Montour Mountain Cree camp AB

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Marie Kunuk-Allen

Iqaluit

Description

Marie Kunuk-Allen is a proud Nunavut Land Claims beneficiary, born and raised in Iqaluit, Nunavut.

She currently serves as a Project Manager at Nunavut Nukkiksautiit Corporation, a 100% Inuit-owned renewable energy developer operating in the Qikiqtani region. In this role, she is committed to supporting projects that empower Inuit communities in the region. 

Marie is inspired and highly motivated to be part of Nunavut’s transition to renewable energy solutions.

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Aaron-lee Odjick

Kitigan-Zibi Anishinabeg

Description

I’m a Rez kid with big dreams; I have a passion for nation-to-nation prosperity through community projects and entrepreneurship. I believe in taking a cultural and traditional approach to modern issues and our collective desires; I absolutely love connecting with other cultures to learn and share. 

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Billy Kilabuk

Pangnirtung

Description

Billy Kilabuk is an mmos clerk Maintenance Management operating system, he works for municipality of pangnirtung since 2015, he has a beautiful wife Rosemary, and 3 beautiful children Lexie,Lali and Xavier, he lives in pangnirtung since he was born, he loves to do some hunting fishing and camping also always fixing stuff for his family and friends, always eager to learn new things.

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Dakota Marsden

Pinaymootang First Nation, MB

Description

Boozhoo, Dakota nindizniikaaz. Pinaymootang nindoonjii. Makwa ndoodem. My name is Dakota, my Clan is the Bear, and I am from Pinaymootang First Nation.

I am an Anishinaabekwe from Treaty 2 Territory, a mother, and a student. I currently reside in Manitoba. I am employed as the PFN Lands Manager for my home nation. I completed the Indigenous Youth Policy School with Canadian Roots Exchange and was a part of the first cohort with the Generation Power program at Indigenous Clean Energy. I completed my Level 1 Lands training at Vancouver Island University, and I am currently enrolled in the Level 2 Lands training with NALMA. I am passionate about language, health, land, and sustainability.

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Tyler George

Ochapowace Nation, SK

Description

Headperson Tyler George is nehiyaw (cree) from Ochapowace Nation, which is on Treaty Four Territory, located in Saskatchewan. They are currently an elected leader for their nation, responsible for Laws and Justice, and co-chair for Lands and Natural Resources. They are also the youngest elected (26 years old) and the first two-spirit leader of their nation. They currently serve as the Chairperson for the Assembly of First Nations (AFN) National 2S+ Council. With their past experiences working in Treaty Protection, Policy, and Criminal & Civil Law, they have been an advocate for the protection of Treaty and Inherent Rights, and the protection of Two-Spirit LGBTQQIA+ people.

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Tara Dantouze

Timiskaming First Nation, QC

Description

Tara Dantouze, originally from Manitoulin Island, Ontario, blends her Denesuline and Anishnaabe heritage with a profound love for nature. A graduate of Laurentian University with a degree in Indigenous Studies, she co-founded The Wild Basket, crafting locally foraged goods. Tara’s passions extend to hockey, golf, cycling, fishing, and camping.

Currently, Tara works as the Natural Resources Manager for Timiskaming First Nation, where she continues her commitment to Indigenous land stewardship, and advocates for cultural preservation, environmental regeneration, and community empowerment.

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Stuart Michel

Rigolet, NFLD

Description

Stu is a member of the Upper Nicola Band, which is a part of the Syilx Nation in the southern interior of BC. Stu currently resides in Rigolet, Nunatsiavut, where he currently holds the position of Community Energy Lead. Stu has a background in natural resources, mainly forestry.

In his role with the Nunatsiavut Government, Stu has the opportunity to work with the energy strategy team to create programs that will help Nunatsiavut become less reliant on the diesel generators that power the 5 communities.

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Montanna Labradore

Glooscap First Nation, NS

Description

Montanna Labradore is a proud Mi’kmaw from Glooscap First Nation. Her journey began with her studies in Fashion Design at Fanshawe College in Ontario. Throughout her time there, she became increasingly aware of the harmful impacts of the fashion industry, prompting her to explore deeper into the causes of climate change.

Despite lacking prior experience, Montanna felt compelled to apply for her current role as the Energy Coordinator at Glooscap Ventures. While still pursuing her passion for fashion in a sustainable manner, she recognized the benefits of renewable energy for her community and took this opportunity as a chance to make a meaningful difference. In her role, Montanna is passionate about cultivating sustainable practices that not only preserve the environment but also enhance the well-being and prosperity of her community. Outside of work, Montanna enjoys being creative, and enjoying herself surrounded by nature’s beauty.

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Melissa Cahoose

Ulkatcho First Nation, BC

Description

Melissa Cahoose is a proud Ulkatchot’en passionate about empowering youth and supporting community wellness and vibrancy. She is diving into the clean energy sector and embracing a new journey in energy sustainability and climate action. Melissa is actively working on many projects that support the implementation of Ulkatcho’s Community Energy Plan and overall goals related to climate resiliency. Through her efforts in clean energy and climate action, Melissa aims to meaningfully benefit Ulkatcho and inspire others to take action and support community goals culturally & traditionally as possible.

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Lori Saunders

Xeni Gwet’in First Nations, BC

Description

Lori Saunders, Ximximuslayc, is Sutslmc and Tsilhqot’in from the territories Kimsquit and Xeni Gwet’in. Lori is the Clean Energy Coordinator for Xeni Gwet’in First Nations Government. She is a member of the Climate Action Network for Coastal First Nations and Great Bear Initiative.

Lori has completed the Indigenous Environmental Leadership Pathways Program at Royal Roads University. She has completed a Business Administration Certificate Program with Smith University and Queen’s University, and completed a Project Management Certificate Program with UBC Sauders. Lori has participated in the Global Youth Climate Training. This training is a collaboration between the Global Youth Coalition (GYC), a newly founded coalition of climate youth activists and researchers at the University of Oxford.

Lori has participated in the Canada World Youth Program in 2018. She attended as a volunteer/intern for approximately 4-months. The program was focused on international development where she developed her experience in project management, Spanish, leadership, communication, adaptability, gender equality, agriculture, cultural exchange and human rights. Lori finds joy in travelling and participating in cultural exchange opportunities. Lori has participated in the basic training program Bold Eagle, training provided by the Canadian Armed Forces in 2017.

Lori enjoys beading, practicing embroidery, weaving cedar bark, reading, and being out on the land. She loves learning about traditional medicine, cultural history, and traditional practices and protocols.

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Kristen Bear

Flying Dust First Nation, SK

Description

Kristen Bear is a proud Cree and Dene First Nations woman from Flying Dust First Nation in Treaty 6 Territory. She grew up in Saskatoon, SK, and moved back to her home community shortly after receiving her Business Administration Diploma. Kristen has worked in many different government office settings with 4+ years’ experience. She has four beautiful children as her guiding motivation to her hard work and work ethic.

Kristen is currently in her third year of being the Energy Navigator for her home community of Flying Dust First Nation. In this position, she works with a team of eight other Energy Navigators to make up the nine communities of the Meadow Lake Tribal Council. This grew her passion and dedication for clean energy, energy conservation practices, and focusing on a greener lifestyle. Kristen hopes to make an impact on her community with the community energy planning initiatives and ongoing community engagements. Kristen is also working with the SaskPower Energy Assistance Program, bringing more energy-conserving initiatives home by installing energy-saving products in FDFN band homes. The 20/20 Catalysts Program will provide Kristen with the skills and tools to help her community build more capacity, and create more clean energy projects back home.

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Kara Wilson

Quatsino First Nation, BC

Description

Kara was born and raised in Quatsino, BC. She started working in the clean energy sector with Cape Scott Wind LP, located within the 3 nations of the north island. Kara’s passion is staying and working in the clean energy industry to help her community, along with the surrounding communities, be successful with community led energy leaders.

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Jason Morningstar

Mississauga First Nation, ON

Description

Jason was born and raised on Mississauga First Nation. He moved to Kingston, Ontario at 21 years old to begin a career as a Federal Correctional Officer. After an extremely challenging testing process, at 23 years of age, Jason was successful in achieving a role on the Emergency Response Team (ERT) at a Federal Institution in Canada. Eventually he was encouraged by his team members to consider a leadership role, which he accepted. Jason is an exceptional thinker, great problem-solver, and has an invaluable skill set to build, mentor and establish relationships with everyone in his network, professionally and personally. This is partly due to having great role models and mentors throughout his correctional career.

Jason’s passion for Indigenous housing science, relationship building, and cultures was the inspiration that supported his graduation from a comprehensive two-year Home Inspection Program. He successfully completed the program in 2016, while maintaining the full-time role as a Federal Corrections officer, an ERT member, and a dedicated hockey coach to his two sons, Theron and Coden. After completing the Home Inspection program, Jason launched his Indigenous housing-centred business, Mspections Inc.

To date, Jason has worked in collaboration with leadership, management and thousands of Indigenous Peoples across Canada. His philosophy of educating through storytelling was inspired by his grandparents, whom he was close with throughout his life, until their passing in recent years. Since Mspections Inc.’s incorporation in 2016, Jason has been grateful to partner with many Indigenous and non-Indigenous nations and communities. Within these esteemed partnerships, some partners were accessible by ice road, boat or airplane. These partnerships/relationships have developed into large-scale projects to better inform the immediate and long-term health and housing programs in many communities. More specifically, Jason is the co-creator of the Healthy Home Model that centres Indigenous community-led health and housing programs and workshops for youth, families, and Elders in the community. This model focuses on teaching basic home maintenance through applied learning sessions and maintaining healthy habits through traditional medicines, cultural teachings, and applied learning with plants grown locally to sustain wellness in the community.

Over a decade of relationship-building and work-travel to many Indigenous communities as a housing consultant, has provided Jason with the valuable knowledge to support the needs of the most northern isolated communities in Canada. Many factors must be considered to thrive in Canada’s northern environments. One factor to consider is the clean energy conversation, which Jason has advocated for in negotiations with regional leadership delegates. The process to realise innovation solutions requires ongoing and sustained relationship-building within Indigenous communities. This process is a familiar protocol in Indigenous wise practices to community-led initiatives. Throughout these discussions, Jason effectively liaises between the organization and the Indigenous communities, in pursuit of establishing positive relationships, to present the opportunities to partner in expanding on the educational and training initiatives offered by Indigenous Clean Energy.

Although Jason was reluctant to submit a retirement letter to the ERT in his previous career, the period of comprehensive skill development that followed played a crucial role in further developing and refining Jason’s leadership qualities, relationship skills and solution-based philosophies. Moreover, community-based discussions and learning what community residents prioritize, enabled Mspections Inc. to build a network and catalyze long overdue changes to support Indigenous Peoples.

Jason is motivated to learn throughout the upcoming challenges and apply his teachings and experiences to support the ICE leadership and respective team members in their pursuits of positive change.

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Heather LeBlanc

Lower Sackville, NS

Description

Heather LeBlanc, Crane Clan, Anishinaabe, is a member of Sheshegwaning First Nation, ON, and is currently serving as a Community Champion for the Clean Energy and Equity Network in Mi’kma’ki/Nova Scotia. She holds two degrees, one in Drawing and Painting, reflecting her creative spirit, and more recently, in Psychology, embodying her dedication to understanding human behavior and well-being. While she may be new to the clean energy sector, Heather’s profound belief in the intrinsic connection between Indigenous peoples and the land drives her commitment to ensuring Indigenous voices are at the forefront of the clean energy transition.

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Gina Simon

Michipicoten First Nation, ON

Description

Gina Gasongi Simon is a proud member of the Wiikwemikoong Unceded Indian Reserve. She is a versatile individual with an extensive background in both education and life experiences. She has broken barrier after barrier, beginning with her own education and work experience that spans various industries. She currently works as the Community Energy Champion with Michipicoten First Nation and has been instrumental in assisting the community to understand their potential and opportunities in the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions and energy efficiency. Her goal is to provide future direction for energy plans and projects that create social, economic, political, and environmental benefits.

Gina’s experiences in the male-dominated industries have inspired her to continue blazing a trail for other Indigenous women and girls by providing mentorship, wherever and whenever the opportunity arises. She is a strong advocate for Indigenous women and is always willing to go the extra mile to ensure all women have a voice and are treated respectfully.

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Evan Belleau

Garden River First Nation, ON

Description

Evan Belleau is the Energy Advisor and Community Energy Champion for Garden River First Nation. He has been in this position since July of 2023. Evan is a graduate of the Sault College Business program, and his previous work experience includes working for local small businesses in the neighbouring city of Sault Ste Marie. In the role of Energy Advisor, Evan hopes to keep improving the already great education and capacity work of his predecessors and keep community energy projects moving towards completion. Evan enjoys keeping in shape; he can be seen walking in the community and at the community fitness centre. Evan lives in Garden River with his wife, son, 3 cats and dog.

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Desiree Maurice

Lac La Ronge Indian Band, SK

Description

In the heart of the vibrant land of Pinehouse Lake, Saskatchewan, an Indigenous woman named Desiree Maurice was born and raised, feeling the earth’s call and the whispers of her ancestors guiding her steps. As she matured, Desiree felt a stirring within her soul, leading her to a new journey in Lac La Ronge.

With unwavering determination and a profound connection to her heritage, Desiree embarked on a mission to carve a brighter future for her communities alongside the Pithesowiskotew Community Energy team. Guided by the wisdom of her elders and the teachings of the land, she embraced her role as a Community Energy Coordinator within the Lac La Ronge Indian Band.

Through enlightening workshops and tireless advocacy, Desiree champions the cause of clean energy and sustainability, nurturing a generation of future leaders passionate about environmental stewardship. Drawing from her deep well of experiences and the knowledge passed down by revered elders, Desiree’s dedication blossoms from a profound passion to uplift others on their journey towards realizing their dreams. As the sun sets over the northern communities, Desiree Maurice stands as a guiding light, igniting a beacon of change and opportunity, fueling a journey towards a harmonious and bountiful tomorrow for all.

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Demetri Scanie

Cold Lake First Nations, AB

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Amber Big Plume

Tsuu T’ina Nation, AB

Description

Amber Big Plume, a proud member of the Tsuu T’ina Nation, brings a wealth of knowledge and dedication to her role as Business Development and Projects Manager at First Nations Power Development Inc. With an undergraduate degree in Law and Society complemented by a minor in International Indigenous Studies from the University of Calgary, Amber’s academic background reflects her commitment to understanding and advancing Indigenous interests.

Currently pursuing her MBA at Simon Fraser University, Amber is dedicated to expanding her skill set and knowledge base to better serve Indigenous communities in the renewable energy sector.

At First Nations Power Development Inc., Amber plays a pivotal role in fostering Indigenous community ownership in the renewable energy sector, empowering communities to embrace sustainable energy solutions. Her work not only drives economic empowerment but also embodies principles of reconciliation and community capacity building.

Beyond her professional endeavors, Amber actively engages in community initiatives, serving on the Community Futures Treaty 7 advisory committee. Additionally, she offers her time as a peer mentor for Indigenous students at the University of Calgary and Mount Royal University, exemplifying her commitment to nurturing the next generation of Indigenous leaders.

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Amanda Waquan

Mikisew Cree First Nation, AB

Description

My name is Amanda Waquan, and I’m honored to share a glimpse of my journey with you. As a proud member of the Mikisew Cree First Nation and a devoted mother to my 14-year honor student, family and community are at the heart of everything I do.

In all my endeavors, I am guided by the belief that the Earth is not given to us but lent to us, and it is our responsibility to leave it as we found it for future generations. This principle informs my approach to business and my commitment to sustainability and environmental stewardship.

As I continue to strive for personal and professional growth, I’m guided by Ronald E. Osborn’s words: “Unless you try to do something beyond what you have already mastered, you will never grow.” My aspirations extend beyond business; they encompass a commitment to lifelong learning, community engagement, and making a positive impact wherever I go.

I am grateful for the opportunities that lie ahead, and I look forward to connecting, collaborating, and growing together on this journey of discovery and achievement.

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Name

Tricia Bryant

Port Alberni, BC

Description

Tricia lives in Port Alberni, BC, where she was born and raised. She earned her Bachelor of Business Administration from Vancouver Island University in 2013. Her Chartered Professional Accountant designation was in 2015, and she is currently working on completing her Local Government Administration Certificate. Tricia has spent four years in public accounting and seven years in municipal finance and asset management before shifting gears and joining Uchucklesaht Tribe Government as Funding Specialist in 2022. She finds a huge sense of reward in working with local First Nations and seeing her efforts providing direct benefit to the Uchucklesaht community. Early in life, she learned to appreciate being surrounded by nature and spends her summers camping in the woods all over Vancouver Island. Her goals are to incorporate fiscal, social, and environmental responsibility in not only the Uchucklesaht community but all communities in the region, and to do her best to reduce climate change and create a brighter future for her son and younger generations. She is looking forward to seeing the direct benefits of Indigenous Clean Energy and a reduction in diesel power in the Uchucklesaht territory. 

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Name

Tiran Smallboy-Zorthian

Mountain Cree Camp, AB

Description

Tiran Smallboy-Zorthian comes from Mountain Cree Camp, formally known as Smallboy’s Camp. He is a firm believer in spirituality and the traditional teachings of his community. He completed his high school diploma in 2019 from Kisiko Awasis School in his community. Before the introduction of the ICE and IODI, he travelled throughout U.S. and Canada, competing as a dancer and singer within the Powwow circles. He has become a skilled native artisan/entrepreneur, crafting native artifacts such as drums, jewelry, and powwow regalia. He is open-minded and ready to engage more with his home community to contribute to the children’s future and growth personally. It’s the children of his home community that strongly inspire him to become a better version of himself.