Proud of Our History
WILLOW LAKE MÉTIS NATION

About Willow Lake Métis Nation

By operating through a structured governance of transparency and accountability we aim to improve our community's way of life and sovereignty through responsible leadership.

LEARN MORE

Our Vision

To effectively represent the rights-bearing community of the Willow Lake Métis; ensuring trust, cultural retention, economic stability, a sustainable environment, and a better life for all.

History of Willow Lake Métis Nation

OUR HISTORY

RECENT NEWS

By Brad Stables May 26, 2025
Rooted in Respect. Driven by Partnership. At Willow Lake Métis Nation (WLMN), our approach to industry relations is grounded in respect, transparency, and mutual benefit. Through strong, strategic partnerships, we are ensuring a sustainable future for our Citizens, protecting our rights, and supporting responsible economic development throughout Northern Alberta. Our Industry Relations pillar focuses on collaboration - not just consultation. It’s about co-creating opportunities that reflect our values, protect our lands, and invest in our Nation’s future. Partnership with Purpose We are proud to walk alongside industry leaders who recognize the importance of working with Indigenous communities in a meaningful way. Our partners contribute more than resources - they bring a commitment to long-term relationship-building rooted in open dialogue, shared goals, and reconciliation. Some of our key partnerships include: Astisiy Limited Partnership In a landmark move, the Willow Lake Métis Nation formed Astisiy Limited Partnership with Suncor Energy, making WLMN an equity partner in the Base Plant operations. This is not just an economic investment—it’s a bold step toward Indigenous ownership and influence in Alberta’s energy future. It’s a powerful example of how we can lead from a place of strength and vision when given a seat at the table. Learn more about Astisiy ConocoPhillips Canada Our collaboration with ConocoPhillips Canada has created opportunities for community investment, employment, and education. Their commitment to building relationships founded on honesty and shared success reflects what WLMN stands for: protecting our way of life while moving forward with purpose. Read about our work with ConocoPhillips Keyera Partnership Keyera’s respect for Indigenous rights and their support of community development have helped shape a partnership built on trust. Whether through education initiatives or environmental stewardship, our joint efforts reflect a shared desire to make meaningful contributions to the lives of our Citizens. Explore the Keyera partnership Suncor Energy In addition to our equity stake via Astisiy, our ongoing relationship with Suncor is rooted in shared responsibility. Suncor recognizes that sustainable development must include Indigenous voices—and we are ensuring our Citizens are represented and respected at every step. Discover the full Suncor partnership Willow Lake Métis Group: Advancing Economic Reconciliation Through Industry While Willow Lake Métis Nation leads with community-first values, the Willow Lake Métis Group (WLMG) drives opportunity through industry. As the Nation’s economic development corporation, WLMG plays a critical role in ensuring our partnerships lead to real, tangible benefits for Citizens. WLMG works directly with industry to deliver high-quality services across sectors, ranging from maintenance and construction to logistics and workforce solutions. But our work goes beyond service delivery. We are building a model of economic reconciliation: one that empowers Indigenous ownership, prioritizes sustainability, and creates long-term prosperity for our Citizens. Through collaborations with partners, WLMG has positioned itself as a trusted Indigenous business leader across Northern Alberta. These relationships are not only helping companies meet their procurement and ESG goals, they are helping our Nation thrive. Together with WLMN, WLMG is proud to support a shared vision of community wellness, environmental stewardship, and economic empowerment. To learn more about WLMG services or partnership opportunities, visit https://willowlakemetisgroup.ca/ . A Platform for Dialogue We’ve created a platform where community and industry can come together. This is a space for open dialogue, shared decision-making, and the development of partnerships that benefit everyone. Through this, we are not only building a stronger economy, we are safeguarding our environment, our culture, and our Nation’s future. Willow Lake Métis Nation has created a platform where industry and community can come together - openly, respectfully, and strategically. These relationships support: Job creation and long-term employment for Citizens Hands-on training and mentorship in key sectors Revenue-sharing and investment in local programs Protection of our land and resources guided by Métis values We are building more than projects—we are building a legacy of collaboration, pride, and opportunity. Our Commitment Willow Lake Métis Nation is committed to: Economic Development that aligns with our values Environmental Stewardship that honours our traditional knowledge Community Empowerment through training, employment, and cultural preservation Mutual Respect and understanding in all relationships We’re grateful to our partners who walk this path with us and recognize the strength of Indigenous leadership in shaping a better tomorrow. Join us in building the future—together. For more information on our industry relations and how you can get involved, visit www.wlmn.ca/our-industry-partnerships .
By Brad Stables May 16, 2025
In early 2024, we shared the publication of our Community Climate Risk Assessment and Report in collaboration with the Resilience Institute, Associated Engineering, and the Prairie Adaptation Research Collaborative. Exciting insights gained from this project are now a valuable guide for fellow local governments keen on enhancing their adaptation planning strategies.
May 7, 2025
Willow Lake Métis Nation was proud to stand in solidarity at this year’s Red Dress Day march in Fort McMurray, honouring missing and murdered Indigenous women, girls, and Two-Spirit people. Our Nation's own Stella Lavallee was featured in a Fort McMurray Today article, sharing her heartfelt perspective on the importance of this day. “This crisis is not just a tragedy, it’s a reflection of deeper systems that have long failed Indigenous communities.”
By Brad Stables April 29, 2025
On November 12, 2024, the Willow Lake Métis Nation (WLMN) hosted an impactful Indigenous Environmental, Social, and Governance (IESG) Workshop at the Anzac Recreation Center. This gathering marked a key milestone in uniting traditional Métis values with modern ESG practices, bringing together the Nation’s Elders Circle, its staff, and the Sustainability Steering Committee to shape a vision for the Nation's future. A Platform for Progress The workshop focused on evaluating WLMN's current efforts while identifying opportunities to enhance IESG initiatives. Discussions also touched on defining sustainability and exploring environmental, social, governance and Indigenous reconciliation priorities. Traditional Environmental Knowledge Western views often exclude the spiritual, relational, and holistic perspectives central to many Willow Lake Métis Nation’s worldviews, which regard all elements of the environment, including land, air, water, and animals, as interconnected, living, and embodied with spirit. The principle of Wahkohtowin (kinship and interconnectedness) reflects WLMN’s deep respect for the land, water, air, and all living beings. There is no prioritization of environmental elements, all are viewed as equally important. Social Highlights WLMN’s Citizen programs play a vital role in the social dimension of IESG, fostering community capacity, cultural continuity, and youth empowerment. Willow Lake Métis Nation’s social supports tie back to IESG through empowerment & self-sufficiency, community well-being & growth, cultural identity & inclusion, stronger social network, and breaking cycles. Governance Insights The workshop highlighted the critical role of ethics, transparency, and board diversity in governance. Participants explored ways to strengthen WLMN's leadership through accountable practices and robust oversight mechanisms that reflect both traditional values and contemporary expectations. These insights lay the groundwork for a more dynamic and inclusive governance framework. Driving Indigenous Reconciliation A central theme of the discussions was the integration of Indigenous knowledge and rights into ESG practices. Priorities included preserving WLMN’s cultural identity, protecting land use, and promoting equitable opportunities within projects. By weaving these principles into its ESG pathway, WLMN is setting a benchmark for reconciliation that bridges its heritage with sustainable development. Thoughts on Sustainability At the heart of our mission lies a deep respect for the land and a longstanding connection to WLMN, grounded in history, culture, and traditional knowledge. We are committed to a balanced approach to development, ownership, and environmental stewardship that ensures the health of our natural resources—clean water, thriving wildlife, and fertile land that supports hunting, harvesting, and sustainable food systems. Our vision is to build a resilient, independent Nation through responsible reclamation and measured, thoughtful decision-making. By investing in future generations, we aim to foster long-term growth while preserving our language, culture, and values. We are committed to growing more food, supporting healthier living through clean air and water, and protecting the plants and animals that share our ecosystem. Grounded in fairness, knowledge, and accountability, our efforts prioritize the sustainability of resources for those who come after us. As we move forward, our focus on financial freedom, local self-sufficiency, and reduced reliance on external inputs will support a thriving, equitable, and culturally rooted community. Together, we strive toward a shared future that upholds the integrity of the land, sustains our prosperity, and honors the traditions that define us. Next Steps With these priorities in mind, WLMN is preparing for the next phase of its journey, which includes: Finalizing the sustainability framework, along with defined IESG priorities. Use the in-depth current-state analysis to guide WLMN’s IESG strategy. Establishing long-term sustainability goals and measurable benchmarks. A Vision for the Future This workshop is more than a step forward; it’s a reflection of WLMN’s commitment to its land, culture, and people. By embracing Métis knowledge and heritage while advancing innovative governance practices, WLMN is laying the foundation for a resilient and prosperous future. As these initiatives unfold, they serve as a testament to WLMN’s leadership in harmonizing tradition with modernity. This journey is one of collective purpose, aimed at building not only sustainability but a legacy of equity, empowerment, and community for generations to come.
By Brad Stables April 24, 2025
The Indigenous, Environmental, Social, Governance (IESG) framework is a values-driven approach that centers Indigenous perspectives and priorities in shaping sustainable and equitable development. It goes beyond conventional ESG models by embedding Indigenous knowledge systems, cultural values, and community leadership at every level. Within this framework, educational programs play a vital role in the social dimension of IESG, fostering community capacity, cultural continuity, and youth empowerment. Willow Lake Métis Nation’s social supports tie back to IESG through: Empowerment & Self-Sufficiency: By providing job opportunities and skill development, individuals gain financial independence, reducing reliance on social assistance and enhancing their overall stability. Community Well-Being & Growth: When more Citizens are employed and trained, communities experience economic growth, leading to better housing, healthcare, and education opportunities. Cultural Identity & Inclusion: Employment and training programs can be designed to align with Métis and Indigenous values, ensuring that cultural identity is preserved and celebrated in the workforce. Stronger Social Networks: Workplace connections, mentorships, and training programs help build supportive social networks, reducing isolation and increasing a sense of belonging. Breaking Cycles of Unemployment: Training initiatives create pathways for long-term career success, helping future generations access better opportunities and reducing systemic unemployment. Willow Lake Métis Nation’s Employment Programs At Willow Lake Métis Nation, we are committed to supporting our Citizens in achieving their education, training, and career goals. Our employment and training programs provide financial assistance, skill development, and access to job opportunities to help individuals succeed in their chosen fields, including: Employment Programs Post-Secondary Program: This program supports Citizens pursuing post-secondary education by providing funding for tuition, books, and essential academic resources. Trades and Field Training: This program equips Citizens with the necessary skills and certifications for employment in trades and construction. It covers the cost of safety and on-site construction tickets and provides personal protective equipment (PPE) to ensure workplace readiness. Employment and Career Development Career Fairs & Job Opportunities: Willow Lake Métis Nation hosts two annual career fairs, connecting Citizens with potential employers and training opportunities. Workshops & One-on-One Support: We offer specialized workshops and individual sessions to help participants enhance their employability, develop career plans, and gain valuable industry insights. By investing in education, training, and career development, we empower our Citizens to build sustainable futures while strengthening the economic foundation of our Nation. Creating Networks: The Power of WLMN's Support in Job Training The education, training, and employment programs offered by Willow Lake Métis Nation have a significant and lasting impact on individuals, families, and the broader community. These programs help bridge employment gaps, enhance career prospects, and strengthen the Nation’s economic future. Increased Employment Opportunities: By funding post-secondary education, trades training, and safety certifications, Citizens gain the qualifications and skills needed to secure stable, well-paying jobs. Career fairs and employer connections provide direct pathways to employment. Economic Growth & Self-Sufficiency: Supporting Citizens in finding employment reduces reliance on government assistance and increases financial independence. A well-trained workforce attracts industry partnerships and investment, creating more job opportunities within the community. Empowerment & Confidence: Access to education and training boosts self-esteem and motivation, helping individuals take charge of their career paths. One-on-one career support and workshops provide personalized guidance, ensuring participants feel supported in their journey. Stronger Community & Cultural Preservation: Economic stability allows Citizens to stay within their communities rather than seeking work elsewhere, preserving Métis culture and traditions. Employment success contributes to intergenerational benefits, inspiring younger generations to pursue education and meaningful careers. Workplace Safety & Industry Readiness: Providing personal protective equipment (PPE) and safety training ensures that Citizens enter the workforce prepared and protected, reducing workplace risks. Overall, these programs strengthen individuals, families, and the Nation as a whole, fostering a prosperous and self-reliant Métis community for generations to come. The Willow Lake Métis Nation's employment and training programs aim to enhance the economic well-being of its Citizens. While specific outcome statistics for these programs are not publicly available, broader data on similar initiatives provide insight into their potential impact: Higher Employment Rates with Education: In 2021, Indigenous individuals aged 25 to 54 with a bachelor's degree or higher had an employment rate of 86%, compared to 60% for those with only a high school diploma. Increased Earnings for Tradespeople: Male Indigenous journeypersons reported a median employment income of $71,100, approximately $7,000 higher than their non-Indigenous counterparts. Reduced Employment Gaps through Training: Programs like the Indigenous Skills and Employment Training (ISET) initiative aim to improve employment and earnings outcomes for Métis individuals, thereby reducing disparities between Métis and non-Indigenous populations. These figures suggest that comprehensive employment and training programs, similar to those implemented by the Willow Lake Métis Nation, can lead to higher employment rates and increased earnings among participants. Such programs contribute to individual prosperity and the overall economic development of Indigenous communities. Ongoing Support For Citizens Standalone programs are a valuable starting point, but they cannot be the sole solution to addressing the complex and evolving needs of Citizens. To truly support individuals and foster long-term success, these initiatives must be part of an ongoing, integrated effort. Here’s why: Sustained Support and Long-Term Impact One-time programs may provide short-term benefits, but ongoing support is necessary to ensure that Citizens can sustain and build upon their progress. This includes continued access to training, career development, mentorship, and educational resources. Without this support, Citizens may face barriers that prevent them from fully utilizing the skills and opportunities they’ve gained. Adapting to Changing Needs Communities evolve, and so do the needs of Citizens. As industries change, new technologies emerge, and economic conditions shift, it’s crucial to offer ongoing training and development opportunities to keep up with these changes. A continuous learning environment ensures that Citizens remain competitive and adaptable in the workforce. Building a Holistic Support System Employment and training programs need to be integrated with other social services - such as childcare, housing support, mental health resources, and financial literacy training - to address the full range of factors that impact an individual’s success. Standalone programs may not consider these broader challenges, but an ongoing effort ensures Citizens have access to the comprehensive support they need to thrive. Fostering a Culture of Empowerment and Self-Sufficiency By offering consistent engagement through workshops, career coaching, networking opportunities, and mentorship, Citizens feel valued and empowered to take charge of their careers. The goal is to create a culture of lifelong learning and self-sufficiency, where Citizens are continually encouraged to grow and reach new milestones. Community Building and Networking Standalone programs often fail to foster a sense of community and connection among participants. However, ongoing efforts that include networking events, career fairs, and peer support groups can help Citizens form lasting relationships that contribute to their success. These connections often lead to collaborative job opportunities, mentorship, and community-wide growth. Tracking Progress and Measuring Success Ongoing programs allow organizations to track progress over time, making it possible to measure success, identify areas of improvement, and adjust strategies. This continual feedback loop is essential for ensuring that Citizens receive the support they need at every stage of their journey. The Indigenous, Environmental, Social, and Governance (IESG) framework emphasizes the importance of long-term, sustainable practices that benefit Indigenous communities. When we consider employment and training programs within the context of IESG, it’s clear that ongoing support is critical for ensuring lasting success, economic empowerment, and community resilience. Here’s how this relates to the importance and impact of IESG: Social Impact through Long-Term Support The social aspect of IESG focuses on creating positive, lasting impacts on Indigenous communities. Standalone programs can offer short-term assistance, but the ongoing support necessary to foster community development, improve educational outcomes, and reduce employment gaps requires continuous effort. The success of employment and training programs relies on more than just providing initial training; it requires ongoing career support, mentorship, networking, and opportunities for advancement to truly uplift individuals in a meaningful way. By adopting a long-term, integrated approach that includes consistent training and support, the IESG framework encourages holistic growth within Indigenous communities. This creates an environment where Citizens can not only secure stable employment but also continue to thrive and contribute to their community’s growth. Governance and Sustainability IESG places strong emphasis on governance and sustainability. For employment and training programs to be effective in the long term, they must be part of a well-governed, sustainable strategy. Standalone programs may fall short without an overarching governance structure to provide continuous funding, measure outcomes, and track progress. IESG supports transparent governance to ensure that these programs are effective, and that resources are continually directed toward meeting the evolving needs of Citizens. Through this lens, ongoing efforts to support Citizens ensure that the programs remain sustainable, adaptable, and aligned with the goals of the community over time. It encourages Indigenous leadership to take ownership of these programs and direct them in ways that fit the unique needs of the community. Environmental and Social Sustainability The environmental aspect of IESG also ties into the sustainability of training and employment opportunities. For programs to be successful in the long run, they must not only focus on individual development but also take into account the community’s broader environmental context. Indigenous communities are deeply connected to their land, and training programs should incorporate environmental awareness, sustainable job practices, and eco-friendly industries. Incorporating these elements into ongoing training helps ensure that new industries and job opportunities align with Indigenous values and respect for the land, creating sustainable careers that support the community without compromising the environment. Community Empowerment and Self-Sufficiency IESG aims to empower communities by focusing on social equality, fostering self-sufficiency, and promoting Indigenous leadership. Employment and training programs within the IESG framework should be designed to not only provide skills but also build confidence, self-esteem, and leadership potential. Through ongoing engagement and development, these programs provide the tools for individuals to achieve long-term success while contributing to the broader social and economic development of their communities. This empowerment helps break cycles of dependency, which aligns directly with the social goals of the IESG framework. In the context of IESG, standalone programs serve as a crucial starting point, but sustained, ongoing support is essential for achieving true success. IESG emphasizes the interconnectedness of social, environmental, and governance factors, and an ongoing approach to employment and training ensures that communities do not only benefit in the short term but continue to thrive in a sustainable, empowering, and culturally aligned manner for generations to come.
Show More

RECENT NEWS

By Brad Stables May 26, 2025
Rooted in Respect. Driven by Partnership. At Willow Lake Métis Nation (WLMN), our approach to industry relations is grounded in respect, transparency, and mutual benefit. Through strong, strategic partnerships, we are ensuring a sustainable future for our Citizens, protecting our rights, and supporting responsible economic development throughout Northern Alberta. Our Industry Relations pillar focuses on collaboration - not just consultation. It’s about co-creating opportunities that reflect our values, protect our lands, and invest in our Nation’s future. Partnership with Purpose We are proud to walk alongside industry leaders who recognize the importance of working with Indigenous communities in a meaningful way. Our partners contribute more than resources - they bring a commitment to long-term relationship-building rooted in open dialogue, shared goals, and reconciliation. Some of our key partnerships include: Astisiy Limited Partnership In a landmark move, the Willow Lake Métis Nation formed Astisiy Limited Partnership with Suncor Energy, making WLMN an equity partner in the Base Plant operations. This is not just an economic investment—it’s a bold step toward Indigenous ownership and influence in Alberta’s energy future. It’s a powerful example of how we can lead from a place of strength and vision when given a seat at the table. Learn more about Astisiy ConocoPhillips Canada Our collaboration with ConocoPhillips Canada has created opportunities for community investment, employment, and education. Their commitment to building relationships founded on honesty and shared success reflects what WLMN stands for: protecting our way of life while moving forward with purpose. Read about our work with ConocoPhillips Keyera Partnership Keyera’s respect for Indigenous rights and their support of community development have helped shape a partnership built on trust. Whether through education initiatives or environmental stewardship, our joint efforts reflect a shared desire to make meaningful contributions to the lives of our Citizens. Explore the Keyera partnership Suncor Energy In addition to our equity stake via Astisiy, our ongoing relationship with Suncor is rooted in shared responsibility. Suncor recognizes that sustainable development must include Indigenous voices—and we are ensuring our Citizens are represented and respected at every step. Discover the full Suncor partnership Willow Lake Métis Group: Advancing Economic Reconciliation Through Industry While Willow Lake Métis Nation leads with community-first values, the Willow Lake Métis Group (WLMG) drives opportunity through industry. As the Nation’s economic development corporation, WLMG plays a critical role in ensuring our partnerships lead to real, tangible benefits for Citizens. WLMG works directly with industry to deliver high-quality services across sectors, ranging from maintenance and construction to logistics and workforce solutions. But our work goes beyond service delivery. We are building a model of economic reconciliation: one that empowers Indigenous ownership, prioritizes sustainability, and creates long-term prosperity for our Citizens. Through collaborations with partners, WLMG has positioned itself as a trusted Indigenous business leader across Northern Alberta. These relationships are not only helping companies meet their procurement and ESG goals, they are helping our Nation thrive. Together with WLMN, WLMG is proud to support a shared vision of community wellness, environmental stewardship, and economic empowerment. To learn more about WLMG services or partnership opportunities, visit https://willowlakemetisgroup.ca/ . A Platform for Dialogue We’ve created a platform where community and industry can come together. This is a space for open dialogue, shared decision-making, and the development of partnerships that benefit everyone. Through this, we are not only building a stronger economy, we are safeguarding our environment, our culture, and our Nation’s future. Willow Lake Métis Nation has created a platform where industry and community can come together - openly, respectfully, and strategically. These relationships support: Job creation and long-term employment for Citizens Hands-on training and mentorship in key sectors Revenue-sharing and investment in local programs Protection of our land and resources guided by Métis values We are building more than projects—we are building a legacy of collaboration, pride, and opportunity. Our Commitment Willow Lake Métis Nation is committed to: Economic Development that aligns with our values Environmental Stewardship that honours our traditional knowledge Community Empowerment through training, employment, and cultural preservation Mutual Respect and understanding in all relationships We’re grateful to our partners who walk this path with us and recognize the strength of Indigenous leadership in shaping a better tomorrow. Join us in building the future—together. For more information on our industry relations and how you can get involved, visit www.wlmn.ca/our-industry-partnerships .
By Brad Stables May 16, 2025
In early 2024, we shared the publication of our Community Climate Risk Assessment and Report in collaboration with the Resilience Institute, Associated Engineering, and the Prairie Adaptation Research Collaborative. Exciting insights gained from this project are now a valuable guide for fellow local governments keen on enhancing their adaptation planning strategies.
May 7, 2025
Willow Lake Métis Nation was proud to stand in solidarity at this year’s Red Dress Day march in Fort McMurray, honouring missing and murdered Indigenous women, girls, and Two-Spirit people. Our Nation's own Stella Lavallee was featured in a Fort McMurray Today article, sharing her heartfelt perspective on the importance of this day. “This crisis is not just a tragedy, it’s a reflection of deeper systems that have long failed Indigenous communities.”

Your Strategic Indigenous Industry Partners

DISCOVER MORE

LEARN MORE ABOUT OUR PARTNERSHIPS