Meet the Catalysts
Our 20/20 Catalysts family has deep roots.
Every year 20 new exceptional Catalysts from Indigenous communities across Canada join the program and become part of our growing family of Indigenous clean energy leaders.
All Catalysts
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Tianna Philippot
Red River Métis Nation
Description
Tianna grew up in rural Manitoba (Treaty 1, homeland of the Red River Métis Nation) which provided her with an appreciation for nature at a young age. She is a proud Red River Métis woman with European ancestry and largely credits her connection with the environment to her Indigenous Identity. She received a Bachelor’s degree in Biosystems Engineering with an Environmental Specialization and a minor in Agribusiness at the University of Manitoba in 2021.
Motivated to work with Indigenous communities and environmental systems, she joined Urban Systems as an Engineer-in-Training (EIT) in 2021 after completing a Clean Energy Co-op in 2020. She believes we can build a more climate resilient world by “seeing through both eyes”: using the combination of Western science and Indigenous knowledge. When she is not working, Tianna enjoys being outdoors, exploring new places, gardening and spending time with her family and friends.
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Darby Essie
Sioux Valley Dakota Nation
Description
Darby Essie is a Dakota from Sioux Valley Dakota Nation (Wipazoka Wakpa Oyate) in Manitoba.
Quote: “See you wouldn’t ask why the rose that grew from concrete had damaged peddles, on the contrary we would celebrate it’s tenacity. We would all love its will to reach the sun…. well we are the roses, life is the concrete, and the things that happened to me are “MY” damaged peddles….. dont ask me why, ask me how” -Tupac Shakur
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Taish Desnomie
Powertec Solar
Description
Taish is a proud member of Peepeekisis First Nation with over six years of experience in the solar energy industry. With a strong background in construction and oil and gas, he bring hands on knowledge, adaptability, and a solid work ethic to every project.
As a young and ambitious professional, he is passionate about renewable energy and committed to building a more sustainable future. My journey into solar and green energy quickly became more than just a career he fell in love with the work and the positive impact it has on communities and the environment. Taish is driven, reliable, and always eager to learn and grow within the industry.
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Starla Lightbody-Sarazin
Algonquins of Pikwakanagan First Nation
Description
Starla describes herself as “a rez girl trying to do her best for her community and future generations.”
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Kim Milley
Membertou FN & Union of Nova Scotia Mi’kmaq
Description
Kim Milley is an Indigenous community leader advancing sustainable economic development and clean energy solutions across Mi’kmaw communities in Unama’ki (Cape Breton). As Community Development Manager with the Union of Nova Scotia Mi’kmaq (UNSM), she supports collaborative initiatives that build capacity, strengthen local economies, and reflect Mi’kmaw values.
With over two decades of experience in community planning, employment support, and program coordination, Kim is known for bringing people together and turning community priorities into actionable plans. She has contributed to Net Zero action plan development, completed Green Energy Leadership training, and supported early-stage solar farm development, alongside initiatives in local food systems and environmental sustainability.
Kim holds a Bachelor of Business Administration from Cape Breton University, is completing her MBA in Community Economic Development, and holds a 3rd Class Power Engineering certificate. A member of Membertou First Nation, she is committed to advancing Indigenous self-determination and building resilient, sustainable communities.
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Andrea Patiño
Sc.wén̓wen Land Development Corporation
Description
Andrea Patiño is a Clean Energy Specialist at Sc.wén̓wen Land Development Corporation and an Environmental Engineer with a Master of Science in Environmental Science from Thompson Rivers University. She brings over 15 years of experience in environmental project management and clean energy development, with expertise in GIS-based land assessments, environmental impact evaluation, and stakeholder and Indigenous engagement. Her work focuses on advancing renewable energy initiatives, including green hydrogen, solar, and hydroelectric projects, while supporting sustainable land-use planning and regulatory compliance. Andrea is also an Environmental Professional in Training (EPt) and is passionate about climate action, ecological conservation, and building resilient communities. She lives and works in British Columbia, on the traditional and unceded territories of the Secwépemc Nation.
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Jessica Morrison
Otipemisiwak Métis Government
Description
Jessica Morrison is a member of the Otipemisiwak Métis Government within the Métis Nation of Alberta and actively invests time to support her community by fostering connections among fellow Citizens. She is passionate about preserving the environment and strives to strengthen relations that help ensure a resilient future for all.
Her background includes a diploma in Alternative Energy Technology and a Bachelor of Technology in Management with a concentration in Sustainability from the Northern Alberta Institute of Technology (NAIT). In her pursuits, she supports the Environment and Climate Change team at the Otipemisiwak Métis Government in her role as the Sustainability Project Coordinator.
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Hayden Keating
Gitga’at First Nation
Description
Hayden Keating is Gitga’at, from the house of Sinaxeet of the Eagle clan, and her traditional name is Woom Hayetsk. With a background in Indigenous Studies, Hayden understands the connections between culture, land and environmental stewardship. Her summers working with Pacific Whale Society, a non-profit organization based in Gitga’at territory, sparked a passion for protecting the territory and taking meaningful action on climate change.
Such experiences introduced Hayden to clean energy technologies like small hydro and solar photovoltaics that will help guide her work with the Clean Energy Department. In her role as Climate Action Coordinator, Hayden supports the Nation’s goals to reduce diesel dependency and advance key projects like the Gitga’at Power Project and the Water Security Project. Hayden is looking forward to learning and growing in this career and working alongside the community to support sustainable practices and help protect the territory’s lands and waters.
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Farrah Stevens
Confederacy of Mainland Mi’kmaq
Description
Farrah Stevens is a Mi’kmaq professional from Pictou Landing First Nation with a decade of experience across the Indigenous, government, and environmental sectors. Currently the Renewable Energy Project Coordinator for the Confederacy of Mainland Mi’kmaq, she leads initiatives focused on clean energy capacity building, energy planning, and community engagement.
Farrah holds a Bachelor’s in Environmental Science and a Master of Resource and Environmental Management. Her career is defined by technical work in water quality monitoring and a deep commitment to bridging the gap between scientific research and Indigenous Knowledge. Outside of her professional work, Farrah is a wildlife photographer and outdoor enthusiast who enjoys hiking, biking, and playing basketball. She is also a passionate creative with a love for music, film, and gaming.
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Dawn Bedell
Métis Nation – Saskatchewan
Description
Dawn Bedell is a Métis woman from Saskatoon with a background in regulatory work and experience in energy efficiency programming. Now working for Métis Nation – Saskatchewan, she continues to promote sustainability and responsible resource use. Her work reflects a commitment to creating practical, community-focused solutions that align with environmental stewardship and long-term impact.
Beyond her professional life, Dawn is a proud mom who values spending quality time with her family. She has a deep appreciation for the outdoors and can often be found on the river, hiking, or camping whenever she gets the chance. She also enjoys travelling and exploring new places, always seeking opportunities to connect with nature and experience different perspectives.
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Daniel Sinclair
Brokenhead Ojibway Nation – BON Energy GP Ltd
Description
Daniel Sinclair is a proud member of Brokenhead Ojibway Nation in Manitoba and a seasoned construction and project management professional with over 17 years of experience in telecommunications and infrastructure development. He currently serves on the Nation’s housing committee and is actively involved in advancing economic development initiatives within the community.
Recognizing the opportunity to bring sustainable solutions to First Nations, Daniel has shifted his focus toward clean energy and infrastructure projects. He is currently leading a multi-home geothermal and energy efficiency retrofit initiative aimed at reducing energy costs, improving housing conditions, and building long-term community capacity.
Daniel’s long-term vision is to develop Indigenous owned businesses that support large scale infrastructure, workforce and economic development. He is committed to creating opportunities that strengthen his communities resilience and advance energy independence.
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Dani Paul
Paul First Nation and FNpower
Description
Dani Paul is a member of Paul First Nation, located in Treaty 6 Territory. She is passionate about advancing clean energy solutions, with a strong belief that sustainable energy development is essential for protecting the environment and ensuring a better future for coming generations, especially within Indigenous communities.
Dani is driven by the vision of energy sovereignty and the opportunity for First Nations to lead in the transition to cleaner, more sustainable energy systems. She is particularly interested in how renewable energy projects can create long-term economic benefits, strengthen community resilience, and support self-determination.
Inspired by leaders in the field, including the work being done at First Nations Power Development Inc. (FNpower), Dani is motivated by efforts that prioritize Indigenous ownership and participation in the renewable energy sector. These initiatives demonstrate how clean energy can be a pathway not only to environmental stewardship but also to economic empowerment, reconciliation, and capacity building within communities.
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Connor Isaac
Walpole Island First Nation
Description
Connor Isaac is the Community Energy Champion at Walpole Island First Nation in Southwestern Ontario. Connor is a recent graduate of the University of Toronto’s Mechanical Engineering Program, and is moving into PhD studies at UofT while continuing work for Walpole Island First Nation.
Connor developed a passion for learning about STEM at a young age, which evolved into a passion for energy and engineering. This drive allowed him to pursue Mechanical Engineering and, later, a role in academia, helping to push the boundaries of knowledge surrounding Indigenous Engagement in energy projects.
Connor plans to use his engineering knowledge to advance his community’s development of energy sovereignty, while minimizing environmental harm from projects in the traditional territory. He also wants to help youth in his community (and other Indigenous communities) recognize that they have the skills for STEM careers and inspire them to continue their education.
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Chantelle Kechego
Chippewas of the Thames First Nation
Description
Chantelle Kechego is a proud member of Deshkan Ziibiing and is currently the Community Energy Coordinator. She is also a proud mom of three children and one grandson who watches over his family in the spirit realm.
In her role, she has mentored youth and led different energy initiatives that support community sustainability and self-determination. Chantelle has collaborated with Jazz Solar, London Environmental Network, ECO Canada and other external organizations to help advance energy projects that align with the community values and long-term goals. Her work is rooted in community, family and to creating a sustainable and resilient future for the next generations.
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Cameron McDonald
Hamlet of Pangnirtung
Description
Cameron is the Director of Infrastructure for the Hamlet of Pangnirtung, and a passionate supporter of Inuit self-determination under the Nunavut Land Claims Agreement. In his role, he is responsible for capital expenditure planning, asset maintenance planning, and implementation of the community energy plan.
Cameron is actively developing an implementation plan to complete energy retrofits on residential dwellings which will be accessible for home owners in the community. Born and raised in Lindsay, Ontario, Cameron moved to Nunavut in 2020 after graduating from Carleton University with a bachelors degree in civil engineering.
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Brandon Doxtator
Oneida Nation of the Thames
Description
Brandon Doxtator is a bear clan member from the Oneida Nation of the Thames. Brandon is currently serving his 3rd term as an elected councillor for his nation is is passionate about advocating for environmental causes, supporting youth capacity building and economic development.
Brandon sits on the board for OK Ltd, the Oneida Energy Board dedicated to developing renewable energy projects for the nation and committing to a net zero nation by 2040.
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Ariel Rabbitskin
Newo global energy
Description
Ariel is a 26 year old mother of two children. She is from Big River First Nation. She is solar technician and business developer for the company they work for which is Newo global Energy. Ariel started working with them in April 2025. Growing up Ariel always had a passion and a desire to know about clean energy and was happy she got accepted into the 20/20 catalyst program. Her hobbies include going to the gym and writing poetry and spending time with her family and friends.
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AJ Capot-Blanc
Fort Liard/ADK Holdings Ltd.
Description
Angus James (AJ) Capot-Blanc Jr is a proud band member of Acho Dene First Nation which is located in Fort Liard, Northwest Territories, Treaty 11 territory.
Angus is currently the Geothermal Community Liaison for the Acho Dene Koe geothermal project in Fort Liard, NWT, Angus has been in this role since May 2023. Angus also serves as a band councilor for his first nation and sits on the Dehcho Youth Clean Energy Action Council in the dehcho region within the NWT.
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Alex Hosfield
Manitoba Métis Federation
Description
Alex Hosfield is a Winnipeg-based economic development professional specializing in Indigenous-led clean energy initiatives. Born in Winnipeg and raised in St. Andrews, Manitoba, Alex grew up in a blue-collar household that instilled a strong work ethic and community focus. He holds a Bachelor of Commerce (Honours) from the Asper School of Business, where he double majored in Entrepreneurship and Marketing and was actively involved in Indigenous student leadership, including serving as Vice-President of the University of Manitoba Indigenous Commerce Students and Co-President of the Métis University Students Association.
Alex’s professional background spans rail, finance, small business development, manufacturing operations, general labour, and economic development. He currently serves as Sector Coordinator, Energy at the Manitoba Métis Federation, a role created alongside the launch of the Red River Métis Power Corporation. Since 2024, he has worked closely with leadership to advance Red River Métis participation in Manitoba’s wind power procurement process, contributing to partner selection, financial and procurement analysis, wind site development, and project planning. Through hands-on experience, industry engagement, and ongoing learning, Alex is building capacity to support long-term Indigenous equity ownership and leadership in renewable energy development.
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Christina Jackpine
Mississauga First Nation, ON
Description
I am a soon-to-be first time Mother representing Mississauga First Nation, a Northern Ontario community in between Sudbury and Sault Ste Marie. I am Ojibwe and Cree. I moved from Mississauga First Nation in 1998 and returned home in 2018 to begin my healing journey and work for my community. I enjoy being outdoors, hiking, fishing, camping and hunting. I also kayak and snowshoe. I live in Blind River but hope to one day build an off-grid home on our traditional territory for my little family and I. This passion for off-grid living and sustainability has trickled into my employment as a Community Energy Champion for MFN which I started in March 2022. I understand the connection between energy and the environment and care very deeply about becoming sustainable. Throughout my life I gained great respect for Shkaagamik Kwe (Mother Earth) and wish my future work and learning reflects that.
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Drew Bernard
Lennox Island First Nation, PEI
Description
Drew Bernard is the Energy Lead and proud member of Lennox Island First Nation in Prince Edward Island. Graduating from Holland College in 2021 in the Energy Systems Engineering Technology program, Drew realized a need for work to be done in his community to combat climate change. Fast forward to 2023, Drew has completed an extensive energy opportunities assessment, had energy efficiency audits completed on all on-reserve houses and buildings, installed 65 heat pumps to begin heating electrification, and has partnered with PEI’s sole power provider to complete a utility scale solar array by 2025 that will offset Lennox Island’s emissions by 10:1. Drew has future aspirations to build an on-reserve microgrid and band-owned utility that will bring true sovereignty to his small but mighty First Nation in Canada’s smallest province.
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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 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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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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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.