Interns and Alumni
Quick Links
Meet some of the interns and community mentors, both current and past, who have worked with Water First. Please note that not everyone wants to have their biography and photo listed here.
Click on an individual for a brief biography.
Lawrence Mameanskum
“I started working with Water First because I want to gain more knowledge about restoration and water quality analysis,” shares Lawrence.
Lawrence is a Water First Environmental Intern from Kawawachikamach. He has been working on water quality and restoration projects for Naskapi Nation in partnership with Water First. Last summer he was involved in fish populations assessments in Attikamagen Lake. “This lake is very important to my community as it is part of our traditional fishing and hunting territory.”
Lawrence is a Canadian Ranger taking on rescues in the north. He is trained and knowledgeable about the land, which has been helpful for the team. He has a love for fishing and this past winter was asked to hunt caribou for the community.
Lawrence is interested in balancing traditional knowledge with western science and conservation. “ I liked using the scientific equipment and enjoyed learning new techniques during my first field season with Water First.” With the teachings from his grandfather, he is able to bridge both worlds for his community. “I hope I can share my experiences and knowledge with the younger generation and teach them about the restoration and conservation of our land.”
Lawrence Mameanskum
Naskapi Nation
Lori Corbiere
“I wanted to join Water First because I needed a change in my life where I feel I can help not only the environment, but my community and surrounding communities as well. We all need to start taking different measures to start taking care of Shkagamik-kwe, not only for us but for our future generations.
My relationship with water is life: we all need water in order to live a happy and healthy life. In our First Nation, we all have wells and sand points. Although we have clean water, it is a bit challenging to keep track of everyone to maintain clean water to each household. Before I started this internship, I did not know how much. We need a water treatment plant here to make easier to monitor water going to each household. Clean water is deserved to everyone in our community.
I am having a great time in this program, and being able work with these different tools and instruments to make sure our water and environment stays safe and clean is interesting to me. I love our in-class moments and out-of-town training. I like the fact that we can see how other communities work and keep there water and environment clean and sustainable for their communities.”
