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Water First

Indigenous Advisory Council

Water First is guided by the Indigenous youth and young adults who participate in our programs, our Indigenous staff and board members, local Indigenous community partners, and by members of our Indigenous Advisory Council. Our collaborations are built on respect and meaningful partnerships, with Indigenous youth and community partners at the heart of our work.

Water First does not identify as an Indigenous organization. As such, our Indigenous Advisory Council members provide valuable feedback on our programs and delivery in communities.

Through a four-part video series, we are highlighting the advisory council in our member’s own words about our relationships. 

Indigenous Advisory Council

4 Videos

Our Advisory Council

Water First FNAC: Bill Assinewai

Bill Assinewai

Categories: Indigenous Advisory Council

Bill Assinewai is the Technical Services Manager in his home community of Wiikwemkoong Unceded Territory on Manitoulin Island. As the Technical Services Manager, Bill has worked on various initiatives and programs including the construction of a new water treatment plant. Bill was an important advisor and partner of the first Water First Internship on Manitoulin Island.

Bill Assinewai

Water First FNAC: Sue Chiblow

Ogamauh annag qwe, B.Sc., MEM

Position: (Sue Chiblow)
Categories: Indigenous Advisory Council

Ogamauh annag qwe is crane clan born and raised in Garden River First Nation. She has worked extensively with First Nation communities for the last 26 years in environmental related fields. She sits on council in Garden River First Nation and is currently pursuing her Ph.D in Environmental Science at York University with a focus on N’be Kendaaswin (Water Knowledge). Sue has worked with Elders for the last 26 years documenting their knowledge and currently works with the Traditional Ecological Knowledge Elders from the Huron Treaty area.

Ogamauh annag qwe, B.Sc., MEM

(Sue Chiblow)

Jean Marie Colbourn

Categories: Indigenous Advisory Council

Jean Marie Colburn is currently a retired teacher, supplying in her community at Shawanosowe Elementary School. Jean is originally from Whitefish River First Nation and has taught in numerous Indigenous schools across the province, from James Bay to Georgian Bay. She has been a member of Water First’s Indigenous Advisory Council since 2017.

Jean Marie Colbourn

Water First FNAC: Jeannette Corbiere Lavell

Dr. Jeannette Corbiere Lavell, CM

Categories: Indigenous Advisory Council

Dr. Jeannette Corbiere Lavell, CM, is an Anishinaabe community worker from Wiikwemkoong Unceded Territory. She has dedicated decades of her life to raising the status of Indigenous women in Canada and has helped build strong support systems for women as a founding member and president of many organizations, including the Ontario Native Women’s Association and the Native Women’s Association of Canada. Jeannette received the Order of Canada in 2018.

Dr. Jeannette Corbiere Lavell, CM

Water First FNAC: Murray McGregor

Murray McGregor

Categories: Indigenous Advisory Council

Murray McGregor is the Public Works Manager in his home community of Whitefish River First Nation. Murray has worked on various initiatives including the construction of the Water Treatment Plant, Low Lift Station, and Water Tower, among many others. He is a key collaborator with other departments within the Whitefish River First Nation on water initiatives as well as emergency preparedness planning. He also partners with other agencies, municipalities, and other First Nations where he is called upon for advice and guidance.

Murray McGregor

Water First FNAC: James Simon Mishibinijima

James Simon Mishibinijima

Categories: Indigenous Advisory Council

One of Canada’s foremost artists, Mishibinijima has created a unique body of artwork in North America and overseas. Mishibinijima began painting in his community of Wiikwemkoong Unceded Territory and over the years he has been awarded many first and best of show awards at international art exhibitions. He has also developed curriculum materials for First Nation schools and continues to develop teachings to guide people to a positive future.

James Simon Mishibinijima

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Alumni graduate Amy Waboose working in her community drinking water treatment plant.