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At Willow Lake Métis Nation (WLMN), governance is more than policies and procedures — it is the framework through which we serve, support, and stand up for our Citizens. Good governance is about listening, learning, and leading with intention. It is about ensuring that every Citizen can trust the systems behind the services they receive. We believe strong administration is the key to self-determination, community well-being, and long-term success. Through careful planning and transparent leadership, WLMN continues to build administrative structures that not only serve our present but shape our future. These systems are grounded in Métis values and aligned with our Seven Pillars of Governance , including Governance and Fiscal Responsibility, Citizenship and Nationhood, and Economic Development.  Governance Rooted in Responsibility and Vision Willow Lake Métis Nation operates with integrity, accountability, and a commitment to ongoing improvement. Under the leadership of Executive Director Stella Lavallee, we strive for governance that is both transparent and responsive. This means ensuring every policy, every decision, and every new initiative is made with Citizens in mind. We are continuously refining how our Nation operates through the creation of fair and clear policies, the development of support programs that meet real needs, and the delivery of services that empower individuals and families across Northern Alberta. This approach to leadership helps to build confidence, strengthen trust, and ensure every Citizen feels connected to the governance of their Nation. Building Stronger Systems Through Administration WLMN’s administrative work is where vision becomes action. Our team works diligently to manage the day-to-day operations of the Nation in ways that reflect our collective priorities. Our key areas of administrative focus include the following initiatives. Policy creation ensures that all guidelines and decisions are thoughtfully developed and reflect the needs and values of our Citizens. These policies provide clarity and consistency, helping our programs run smoothly and equitably. Policy administration puts those guidelines into action. We work to ensure all procedures are accessible and easy to understand, so that every Citizen knows what supports are available and how to access them. Our Citizenship program is foundational to our Nation’s identity. We maintain accurate records and support Citizens in accessing the services they are entitled to. More importantly, our work-around Citizenship fosters a strong sense of belonging, pride, and accountability within the community. Review the application form to become a Citizen today. Support programs are a direct expression of our commitment to well-being. These programs help Citizens meet basic needs, build skills, and explore opportunities. From food and health security to education and employment, our supports are designed to address barriers and open doors. Programs That Reflect Our Values in Action The work of administration and governance becomes real in the programs that reach Citizens. These initiatives are thoughtfully developed based on feedback, community priorities, and the vision of a stronger Nation. Our Class 3 Driver’s License Program was a great example of this. Through this program, Citizens gained access to professional driver training and graduated with the licensing required for employment in trades, construction, and transportation. It’s more than a license — it’s a step toward financial independence and long-term career success. The Security Guard Training Program offered another vital employment pathway. Participants gained industry-recognized certification and valuable experience that translated directly into job opportunities in safety, event security, and community services. These kinds of initiatives support individual empowerment while contributing to the broader safety and prosperity of our Nation. In addition to workforce initiatives, WLMN’s policies support Citizens through every stage of life. Our Bereavement Assistance Policy provides compassionate support during times of loss. The Community Investment and Citizen Support Funding Policy is designed to achieve two key outcomes: supporting organizations developing programs within our region, and investing directly in Citizens to advance the Métis community. Through our Education Policy, Training Program, and Employment and Training services, we help Citizens build lasting careers and achieve personal goals with confidence. In early 2023, we also announced two new initiatives that address pressing day-to-day needs: a technology access program that provided Fibre Optic internet to Citizens, and safeguarding the future well-being of its community members through their Wills Support Initiative. These initiatives are practical, thoughtful, and rooted in care. They reflect WLMN’s commitment to ensuring accessibility for its Citizens. Each of these programs is supported by well-developed administrative processes and clear policies. They demonstrate how responsible governance directly benefits Citizens and reflects our collective values. Self-Determination in Practice WLMN’s approach to governance is built on the principle of Métis self-determination. We believe in managing our affairs, shaping our programs, and making decisions that honour our distinct culture and identity. Through careful policy development and strong administrative oversight, we are exercising that right every day. Self-determination also means we are not waiting for outside systems to define who we are or what we deserve. Instead, we are building a governance model that reflects the wisdom of our Elders, the energy of our youth, and the shared purpose of our community. This model prioritizes transparency. Citizens deserve to know how decisions are made, how funding is spent, and how policies affect them. It also prioritizes adaptability. As the needs of our community evolve, so too must our systems. That is why we are always listening, always learning, and always striving to improve. Looking Forward: A Nation Built to Last Governance and administration are not static — they are living systems that must grow with our community. WLMN is committed to making those systems stronger, smarter, and more inclusive with every passing year. We are proud of what we’ve accomplished, and we know there is more to do. We are continuing to develop new programs, improve access to existing supports, and refine our policy framework to serve all Citizens more effectively. If you are a Citizen looking to learn more about your rights, opportunities, or how to get involved, we encourage you to visit our Citizen Resources page. These tools are here to support you, because when our Citizens thrive, our Nation thrives. Together, through responsible leadership and transparent administration, we are shaping a stronger Willow Lake Métis Nation.

To Whom It May Concern: We, the democratically elected leadership of the Willow Lake Métis Nation (WLMN), are formally asserting our constitutionally protected rights under Section 35 of the Constitution Act, 1982 in relation to proposed resource development projects in northwestern Saskatchewan. Willow Lake Métis Nation is a historic and contemporary Métis community based in Anzac, Alberta. Our traditional territory extends eastward into what is now Saskatchewan, from Dore Lake in the south to Lake Athabasca in the north. Our people maintain ancestral and ongoing traditional ties to regions surrounding La Loche and the Clearwater River Dene Nation. These connections predate provincial boundaries and are reflected in the historical signing of Treaty 8 at Fort McMurray by members of the Portage La Loche group now known as the Clearwater River Dene Nation. We have serious and valid concerns regarding the proposed uranium development in the Clearwater River watershed. The environmental impacts and the continued taking up of our traditional lands pose risks to our people, culture, and way of life. Despite our repeated efforts to engage, the Government of Canada and the proponents of these projects have failed to consult with WLMN. In response, and as a matter of last resort in our obligation to protect the land and uphold the rights of our Citizens, Willow Lake Métis Nation has filed a Federal Court application filed June 20, 2025, seeking judicial review of Canada’s failure to fulfill its duty to consult. The application relates specifically to uranium mining projects proposed by NexGen Energy and Paladin Canada at Patterson Lake, Saskatchewan, located approximately 150 kilometers northeast of Fort McMurray. We want to be clear: our assertion of rights does not conflict with or diminish any agreements made between other Indigenous Nations and the lease applicants. Our position is focused solely on ensuring the Crown’s duty to consult Willow Lake Métis Nation is meaningfully fulfilled. We are committed to respectful engagement and responsible development that includes all rights-holding Indigenous communities.  Respectfully, The Leadership of Willow Lake Métis Nation

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 Conoco Phillips 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 Willow Lake Metis Group . 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 Our Industry Partners .

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. View the report details and download the case study below.

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.”

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.

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.

For the Citizens of Willow Lake Métis Nation (WLMN), culture is not just history—it’s a living, breathing way of life. Rooted in the land, water, and traditions passed down through generations, WLMN’s cultural retention efforts are about preserving knowledge, strengthening identity, and ensuring that Métis ways continue to thrive for generations to come. Living in Balance with the Land Métis identity is deeply connected to the land. As Kyle Whitford, WLMN’s Indigenous Guardian, describes, “My role is to be the voice for the land, the water, and the animals around us.” The traditional practices of hunting, fishing, and trapping are more than survival skills—they are acts of stewardship. These practices teach respect for nature and reinforce the belief that all elements of the ecosystem are interconnected. Cultural retention at WLMN means ensuring that future generations understand this relationship. Through the Nation’s on the land initiatives like fish camps, harvest camps, and berry-picking gatherings, knowledge keepers share essential teachings about sustainable harvesting, land stewardship, and traditional food systems. These opportunities are not just about learning Métis traditions; they are about living them. Sharing Knowledge Across Generations Knowledge is meant to be shared, not stored away. For many Métis families, cultural teachings are passed down informally—through time spent on the land, storytelling, and community gatherings. Kyle recalls growing up with his grandfather, learning to trap, hunt, and live off the land. “I couldn’t tell you the first time I went hunting because I was doing it before I could even remember,” he shares. Today, WLMN ensures that these teachings remain accessible by opening their cultural camps to anyone willing to learn. Métis and non-Métis people alike are invited to experience firsthand the harvesting traditions that sustain both people and the land. “It’s not just about retaining our culture,” Kyle explains. “It’s about showing others what Métis ways truly are.” Bridging Traditional Knowledge and Western Science In a world where industrial development and environmental concerns often collide, WLMN is working to bring balance. The Nation’s sustainability department is integrating Métis knowledge with Western science to monitor and protect the land. Programs like the Oil Sands Monitoring program allow the community to scientifically validate what Elders and land users have always known—that environmental shifts impact everything. Kyle highlights the importance of this approach: “For years, Elders have said the moose are getting more ticks, that the water is changing, that the land is shifting. Now, we can prove it in ways that industry and government understand.” This ability to translate traditional knowledge into data strengthens WLMN’s advocacy efforts and ensures that Indigenous voices are heard in environmental decision-making. Strengthening Métis Identity Through Community Métis culture is not just about land use—it’s also about the values that hold the community together. Generosity, sharing, and hospitality are at the heart of WLMN’s cultural retention efforts. As Kyle recalls, “Growing up, my grandmother always had food ready for visitors. If we got a moose, we shared it with the Elders and families in need.” This spirit of community continues today. Whether through organized cultural programs or informal knowledge-sharing, WLMN ensures that Métis traditions of care, respect, and togetherness remain strong. Looking to the Future Cultural retention is about securing a future where Métis ways of life continue to thrive. Willow Lake Métis Nation’s efforts to blend traditional knowledge with modern tools, pass down teachings, and advocate for environmental stewardship all contribute to a legacy that will last for generations. As Kyle puts it, “I want my work to pay off 50, 60 years from now. I want my nieces and nephews to be able to look back and say, ‘Kyle and the sustainability team made sure our ways were still here.’” Through cultural retention, WLMN is ensuring that Métis identity remains not just a memory, but a way of life.

For the Métis people of Willow Lake, the land, water, and animals are not just resources—they are relatives. The environment is woven into every aspect of Métis life, from sustenance to spiritual connection, and protecting it is a responsibility carried forward by each generation. As Kyle Whitford of the WLMN sustainability department explains, his role is to be “the voice for the land and the water and the animals around us.” This responsibility isn’t just about conservation; it’s about listening to what the environment is telling us and ensuring that industry, government, and future generations hear it too.