ISSUE NO VIII • SYNCRUDE CANADA LTD. ABORIGINAL REVIEW 2017

Our Secrets The Battle Service from a A Tradition Herb Heroic of Code of Bertha Community of Trails Belcourt Veterans Talkers Clark-Jones of Warriors and Tails Remembered 02 06 08 10 12 20 Welcome There are many diferent pathways to success. It could Pathways captures these stories and connects with be sketching a work of art or dog sledding across the those making positive contributions, bringing new Delta. It could be studying for certification, a college perspectives to the table and influencing change in diploma or university degree. Or it could be serving our society. your country in times of battle or peace. Join us as we explore these many diverse pathways There is no end to the remarkable successes and and learn how generations young and old are working accomplishments among Aboriginal people in the to make a diference. Wood Bufalo region, Alberta and across Canada.

THE STORIES in Pathways reflect the six key commitment areas of Syncrude’s Aboriginal Relations program: Business Development, BUSINESS EMPLOYMENT Community Development, Education and Training, Employment, the Wood Bufalo is home to some of As one of the largest employers Environment, and Corporate the most successful Indigenous of Indigenous people in Canada, Leadership. As a representation of businesses in Canada. Syncrude Syncrude’s goal is to create our ongoing work with the local works closely with Indigenous opportunities that enable First First Nations and Métis communities business owners to identify Nations, Métis and Inuit people to create and share opportunity, opportunities for supplying goods to fully participate in all aspects Pathways is one among many and services to our operation. of our operation. initiatives meant to foster dialogue and celebrate shared achievements.

EDITORIAL COMMITTEE COMMUNITY ENVIRONMENT Kara Flynn, Jo Anne Hulan, Lana Hill, Mark Kruger, Colleen Legdon, Lisa Canada is a country rich in diversity We work with local Aboriginal Nelson, Tracey Stephen and culture. Syncrude helps communities on such matters as CONTRIBUTORS Aboriginal communities celebrate end-land use and how we can Drew Casford, John Copley, Will Gibson, success and continue to build minimize the long-term impacts of our Teresa Koch, Mark Kruger, Mike Lupien, capacity for further progress operations on traditional land uses. Paul Manuel, Bob Nyen, Chelsey Pynn, and achievement. Tracey Stephen, Kevin Thornton PHOTOGRAPHY Art Gallery of Alberta, John Copley, Trent Enzsol, Greg Halinda, Darren Jacknisky, Alexandra Lazarowich, Library and Archives Canada, John MacDonald, EDUCATION LEADERSHIP NAIT TCI Photo Department, Bob Nyen, Provincial Archives of Alberta, Chelsey Learning unlocks the door to reward Leadership is found among young and Pynn, Roth & Ramberg, George Webber, and personal growth. Syncrude works old alike. As a member of many Leah Wood with Aboriginal communities regional and national organizations, DESIGN & PRODUCTION Karo Group Calgary to explore and create diverse Syncrude works with business and educational opportunities. governments to champion the ILLUSTRATION Chris Pecora continued advancement of Indigenous PRINTING people across the country. Blanchette Press FRONT COVER Darren Jacknisky YOUR THOUGHTS INSIDE BACK COVER Through Pathways, we hope to bring you inspiring stories that Trent Enzsol capture the heart, spirit and success of Aboriginal people and BACK COVER communities. We invite you to share your opinion and tell us how Francis Pegahmagabow, Ojibwa we’re doing. www.syncrude.ca/pwfeedback [Anishnaabe], 1945 Canadian Museum of History, 95253 PATHWAYS | 1

ISSUE NO VIII • SYNCRUDE CANADA LTD. ABORIGINAL REVIEW 2017

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SUPER HEROES CANADA’S SECRET WEAPON OF TRAILS AND TAILS Honouring the extraordinary The vital role of Cree code A trip through history and contributions of Indigenous talkers in World War II. tradition in Alberta’s North. veterans.

8 Battle for 10 Community 18 Endurance, Loyalty 20 Dream 24 From Believer Justice of Warriors &Intelligence Weaver to Achiever

26 ACaring 27 The Way of 28 ALeader 32 ABigHeart 38 APositive Heart the Drum in Waiting ATrueCalling Future

High Achievers page 30 Preserving Language Through Technology page 34 Breaking Through page 36 Education Angels page 40 Shaping the Future page 41 RARA Awards page 42 AGrowingLandscapepage 43 Environmental Update page 44 Home is Where the Heart Is page 46 Celebrating Our People page 47 Aboriginal Relations Scorecard page 48 Aboriginal Relations Program page 50 Aboriginal Relations Team page 51 Thoughts from the CEO page 52 For over a century, thousands of Canadian Indigenous men Super and women have responded Super to the call of duty. Their stories reveal inspiring portraits of remarkable achievement and Heroes extraordinary contributions. hese days, heroes are found flying wounded – to dispose of them unaided, across movie screens, battling aliens thus saving a large number of casualties.” in video games, and punching out Others include Henry Louis Tvillains in the pages of comic books. Norwest, an Alberta Métis soldier and one But in reality, heroes have been defending of the most famous snipers of the entire our freedoms for a very long time. Canadian Corps. He held a divisional “Zinging bullets, the crashing sounds record of 115 fatal shots and was awarded of cannon-fire, muddy trenches, miles of the Military Medal and bar for his courage barbed wire and bodies strewn across under fire. Francis Pegahmagabow, an the landscape; war is indeed little more Ojibwa from Ontario, was another top than hell on earth,” assures 83-year-old sniper and to this day remains Canada’s veteran John McDonald. “Over the years most decorated Ihavespoken with and worked with many Indigenous soldier. Indigenous veterans. Those who made World War II also it back from the wars were proud of their witnessed extraordinary participation, sorry for the losses of their feats of courage and friends and fellow soldiers, and all with stealth. A member words that praised the comfort of peace of the Brokenhead and ofered prayers that the world would Band in Manitoba and see no more war.” descendant of Saulteaux Recipient of the Canadian Forces Chief Peguis, Tommy Decoration with two bars, McDonald Prince was recruited served for 31 years as a member of into the 1st Special the Royal Canadian Artillery and Royal Service Force (1st SSF), a Canadian Electrical Mechanical Engineers, renowned assault team and another eight as a Reservist. Today, known by the enemy as the president of the Aboriginal as the “Devil’s Brigade.” Veterans Society of Alberta, he assists As the Canadian those in need in addition to being a Encyclopedia recounts: Indigenous recruitment coordinator with the Canadian “Prince distinguished himself with the Forces’ Bold Eagle Program (see sidebar). 1st SSF in Italy and France, using the skills “people “Indigenous people who served he’d learned growing up on the reserve… proved to their country did so for a variety of In February 1944, he volunteered to run reasons,” explains McDonald. “Some just acommunicationline1,400metresout be natural wanted the opportunity to participate, to an abandoned farmhouse that sat soldiers – to work, to leave the reserves they felt just 200 metres from a German artillery they were trapped on. Others wanted to honour their position. He set up an observation post ancestors and to follow in the footsteps in the farmhouse and for three days skilled of their uncles, fathers and grandfathers. reported on German movements via a shooters, Indigenous people proved to be natural communication wire. soldiers – they were skilled shooters, When the wire was severed during stealthy stealthy movers, experts at camouflage shelling, he disguised himself as a movers, and fearless fighters.” peasant farmer and pretended to work the Indeed, for more than a century, land around the farmhouse. He stooped experts at thousands of Canadian Indigenous to tie his shoes and fixed the wire while camouflage soldiers, sailors and air force members German soldiers watched, oblivious to his and fearless have participated in conflicts across the true identity. At one point, he shook his globe, including the Boer War, World War I fist at the Germans, and then at the Allies, fighters. and II, and the Korean War. They have also pretending to be disgusted with both. His John McDonald” been among the most celebrated. actions resulted in the destruction of four During World War I, Indigenous German tanks that had been firing on soldiers earned at least 50 decorations Allied troops. for bravery. Among them was Private In France in the summer of 1944, George McLean, a member of British Prince endured a gruelling trek across Columbia’s Head of the Lake Band, who rugged terrain to locate an enemy camp. fought at the Battle of Vimy Ridge in the He travelled without food or water for 72 54th Kootenay Battalion. The book, Native hours. He returned to the Allied position Soldiers: Foreign Battlefields, notes: and led his brigade to the German “Single-handed he captured 19 prisoners, encampment, resulting in the capture and later when attacked by five more of more than 1,000 German soldiers.” (enemy soldiers) who attempted to reach For his selfless acts, Prince was amachinegun,hewasable–although decorated with the Military Medal cont. One personally by King George VI at Buckingham Palace. He enlisted again in the Korean War and, as a member Bold of Princess Patricia’s Canadian Light Infantry, was awarded the United States Presidential Unit Citation for distinguished service. He Idea would also personally receive Korean, Canadian Armed Forces Canadian Volunteer Service and United initiative is transforming Nations Service medals. lives and opening the Adoors to a military career “Indigenous soldiers,” observes Métis for many young men Elder and 37-year veteran Don Langford, and women. “were elite fighters throughout the various Each summer, Indigenous wars and conflicts they’ve participated in. youth from across Western More important is that they returned home Canada and northwestern Ontario travel to CFB with a great deal of knowledge and Wainwright to participate leadership abilities.” in the Bold Eagle summer Some of these include Sam Sinclair employment program. Taught who played a major role in developing the by professional soldiers, the Métis Nation of Alberta, Stan Shank who program helps to develop helped create Native Counselling Services physical fitness, self- discipline, self-confidence, and the Canadian Native Friendship Centres, teamwork and leadership Vic Letendre who developed the Native Youth skills. It includes a four-day Justice Society, and Lt. David Greyeyes who cultural camp, administered by returned home to become Chief of his Band, First Nations and Métis Elders, adirectorwithIndianAfairsandaMember followed by a five-week basic of the Order of Canada. As Langford notes, military qualification course. “Many Bold Eagle applicants “The list goes on.” have never been of the Langford, the executive director of reserve, never been to a Edmonton-based Métis Child and Family major city,” says program Services, himself served in five diferent recruitment coordinator and Canadian Forces bases as well as in Germany. Indigenous veteran John McDonald. “And then we have He was one of about 30 serving members applicants from the cities who lobbied for greater Indigenous rights and who’ve also never experienced to create opportunities for young Indigenous this type of program or Canadians in the military. the military-style training it “It was about 16 years ago when embraces. The cultural camp Canada’s Armed Forces recognized the eases the transition.” There’s perhaps nothing contributions by Aboriginal soldiers, sailors amilitaryveteranlikes and airmen,” says Langford. “They now allow more than seeing the next First Nations servicemen to wear their braids generation take up the call and, more recently, the Métis to wear their and explore the possibilities sashes. Aboriginal veterans are also allowed of serving their country. In to wear their Aboriginal War Medal, which was addition to traditional combat roles, recruits can pursue created about a decade ago.” careers in engineering, The actual number of Indigenous telecommunications, health Canadians who participated in the two World care and advanced equipment War campaigns is not actually known. Accurate technical support. records weren’t kept and many Indigenous “When I joined the Aboriginal forces as a civilian, our job was peoples, including the Métis and the Inuit to find ways to help make life who were not included in the Indian Act, alittleeasierfortheserving didn’t qualify for the tally sheets that included Aboriginal servicemen,” says First Nations soldiers. The number however McDonald. “Fortunately, we was high. During the First World War alone, had a lot of wisdom because according to the Department of Veterans there were a lot of Elders in that group. One of the goals PHOTOS, TOP TO BOTTOM: Afairs, one in three Indigenous men who were was to find opportunity for Sgt. Tommy Prince, Archives of age to serve enlisted to defend their country. Aboriginal youth and to of Manitoba, Personalities – Today, members of Canada’s Armed Forces encourage Aboriginal youth Prince, Tommy 1, 14 October continue to protect the nation’s interests, and are 1952, N197. to consider military careers. involved in everything from territorial surveillance Cpl. Francis Pegahmagabow, That’s how the Bold Eagle and assisting with natural disasters to serving as program came about.” Ojibwa [Anishnaabe], Since its inception in 1989, 1945 Canadian Museum peacekeepers and providing humanitarian assistance. the Bold Eagle program has of History, 95293. Indeed, there is no reason to search for a hero. We hosted over 1,300 youth. Pvt. George McLean. simply need to look around us. Indigenous soldiers “were elite fighters throughout the various wars and conflicts they’ve participated in. More important is that they returned home with a great deal of knowledge and leadership abilities.” Don Langford ome of Canada’s most valuable the exploits of U.S. Navajo code About 600 soldiers met that day Scontributions during the Second talkers, was released. and were divided into diferent World War weren’t made in a factory language groups. “I didn’t believe him,” Smokey laughs, or carried over a soldier’s back. “because we were close and he’d “These groups,” notes Smokey, One, however was a closely held never said a word about it before then. “included Ojibwa, Algonquin, Mohawk, government secret that until He loved the army and was a very Saulteaux, Cree and even some of the only recently was allowed to loyal soldier.” Salish language speakers. They were be revealed. Checker was one of the estimated put in separate rooms, each with a “He was very devoted to his country, over 3,000 Indigenous people who microphone and a sheet of paper with so much so that he kept a wartime enlisted when Canada declared war terms and words on them. They were secret for more than 45 years,” on Germany. While no soldier knew asked to translate the English on the explains 83-year-old Canadian Forces what was in store for them on the front sheets into their native tongues. When veteran James ‘Smokey’ Tomkins, lines, the farthest from anyone’s mind it was all over, the Cree language referring to his older brother Charles would have been participating in a top prevailed and the Cree Code Talkers ‘Checker’ Tomkins. Checker was one secret mission. unit was established. They were sent of a handful of Canadian soldiers who out to the diferent bases in England helped develop a secret Cree code “Checker told me he was having dinner and were eventually attached to the for transmitting important logistical and talking with others in the Cree American Air Force.” messages to and from the aerodromes language when he was approached by Cree code talkers, along with their during the war in Europe. an American army ofcer who wanted to know what language they were Native American counterparts, were “I didn’t know about the role he played speaking,” explains Smokey. “My credited as playing integral roles in in the war; he was sworn to secrecy brother told him and away he went. winning the war. When Checker and never spoke of it,” explains The next thing Checker knew he and returned home, he re-signed with Smokey. Checker remained silent until other Indigenous soldiers on the base the Canadian Army and served for 1992, shortly after the release of the who spoke diferent languages were another 25 years. “I am a Métis, half movie Windtalkers,afilmthatdetails asked to meet in a nearby hangar.” English and Cree Indian,” said Checker PATHWAYS | 7

CANADA’S SECRETWEAPON

in a 2003 interview captured on a want to do with this Smithsonian Institute recording. film,” she says. “In “I love my country and I’ve done my secret heart of everything they’ve asked me to do.” hearts I’m hoping to get congressional In 2016, the contributions of Checker medals for them.” and his fellow code talkers were honoured in a short documentary As an Indigenous film directed and co-produced by filmmaker, Alexandra Checker’s distant cousin Alexandra also feels a Lazarowich, along with co-producer responsibility to Cowboy Smithx. The film, Cree share these stories. Code Talker,debutedattheEdmonton “I want to honour our International Film Festival, supported communities, our Above: Frank Tomkins (left) and James ‘Smokey’ Tomkins in the documentary film Cree Code Talker.Pageopposite: in part by Syncrude. people, our land and our history. The film Charles ‘Checker’ Tomkins. “We decided to make this film,” is also a poem to the explains Alexandra, “because we Grouard, Alberta, area where my Checker passed away in 2003. thought it was important to share family and Charles’ family is from.” Smokey, who was just seven years old Charles’ and the many other Cree when the war began, joined the army In addition to Checker and Smokey, code talkers’ story. It was important in 1954 and retired in 1975 after 22 the Tomkins family were well for the film to also be told from an years of service. Formerly a resident of respected throughout Alberta and the Indigenous perspective.” Fort McMurray, he currently lives in nation. Their father Peter was one of Westlock, Alberta. She hopes the film will create further the founding members of the Métis awareness of the role Aboriginal Nation and their grandfather, Peter Sr., veterans played in world history. “We was the deputy district grand master want justice for them. That’s what we of the Masonic Lodge. Throughout her life she fought for equality and for the rights of Indigenous women. Gail Gallupe PATHWAYS | 9

er dedication that she was being treated Indigenous women across as a physical as an inferior person. It was the country. trainer and drill then that she decided to take H Bertha’s contributions were instructor at astanceandthroughoutthe widely acclaimed. She was military bases across the rest of her life she fought for named an Ofcer of the country during the Second equality and for the rights of Order of Canada, recognized World War earned Bertha Indigenous women.” with an Indspire Lifetime Clark-Jones the admiration Bertha successfully lobbied Achievement Award and both of everyone who knew her. for her rights and was aDiamondJubileeand Yet the toughest battles for eventually ofered land in Queen’s Golden Jubilee this esteemed Canadian Air nearby Hawk Hills. She Award, and inducted into the Force sergeant didn’t occur would soon marry friend and Institute for the Advancement on the beaches of Normandy fellow veteran George Clark, of Aboriginal Women’s or in the skies over the North and settled down to raise a Esquao Circle of Honour. Atlantic, but here at home. family. The fifth of 14 children, “My mother was a strong, With an honourable Bertha was familiar with hardworking Métis woman, discharge after the war, the large families and eventually an advocate for the underdog, respected veteran returned raised nine of her own. an accomplished speaker to the Paddle Prairie Métis Moving to Fort McMurray who was loyal to her country, Settlement where she was in 1960, Bertha became dedicated to her family and raised, lifted by the hopes involved in the local always willing to share the of starting anew. But, for Aboriginal Friendship Centre credit when acclamations Bertha, the road ahead and over the years worked were bestowed upon her,” didn’t prove to be as easy as a school bus driver, cook, says Gail. as it was for others. hairdresser and telephone George passed away in 1978 “As a veteran she was entitled operator. Eight years after and Bertha later remarried to a section of land but was she arrived, her legacy to Allan Jones. In 2014, just truly dismayed when she started to take shape when shy of her 91st birthday, learned that because she she founded the Voice of Bertha too would pass, but was a woman she could not Alberta Native Women’s not before leaving a lasting own land on the settlement,” Society to bring attention to impact throughout Canadian says Gail Gallupe, one of wide-ranging social issues. society. As she would say in a Bertha’s three daughters and Then, in 1974, she co- video produced to recognize currently the President of founded and became the her Indspire Lifetime Fort McMurray’s Métis Local first president of the Native Achievement Award, “If I feel 1935. “She didn’t go Women’s Association of something, I have to act on overseas to fight in the Canada, an organization that it... I just have to act on it.” battles but she did serve her today continues to support country in meaningful ways the social, economic, political and wasn’t pleased to learn and cultural well-being of LEFT TO RIGHT – Bill Loutitt, John Grant COMMUNITY OF LEFT TO RIGHT – Harvey Sykes, David Waniandy PATHWAYS | 11

He said, ‘You fght for your country.’ And that was it.”

he Métis of Fort warriors,” Linda says. “It’s important says Harvey Sykes, whose father, McMurray have a proud for others to know the sacrifices made Thomas A. (Tony) Sykes, served in T and distinguished history by these men and the community as the Calgary Hussars as part of a tank of military service. awhole.” crew in World War II. “He went across Like many others in Fort Elder Bill Loutitt says the Métis and saw action in Holland, Belgium, McMurray’s Métis community, Gordon community always answered the call France and Germany. He told me a ‘Gordie’ White felt the duty to serve of its nation during times of war. couple of stories while we were on at a time of war. Unlike his father or “It didn’t just happen here. our family’s trapline near Cheecham, older brothers, Gordie’s service took There’s a place called Cumberland about 40 miles south of McMurray. him to the United States Marine Corps House in northeastern Saskatchewan But when you hear those experiences, and then Vietnam. and these guys all had to walk a long you understand why they don’t like to Born in 1945, Gordie grew way to enlist and the recruiters finally talk about it.” up listening to stories about his said, ‘We can’t take any more of you.’ Despite making enormous father Henry’s service with Princess They were worried about not having sacrifices for their country, the Patricia’s Canadian Light Infantry – any men in the community,” Bill says. contributions of Métis and other Calgary Highlanders. His brothers “We’ve always been very patriotic and Indigenous veterans are only now Lawrence and John enlisted to go to proud to be Canadian. And part of starting to be recognized. “Métis Korea while his brother Russell served that is being willing to serve.” were overrepresented and under- in Canada and as a peacekeeper Many of the traditional skills recognized,” says Linda. The Métis in Cyprus with the Royal Canadian learned from hunting, trapping and Nation of Alberta is currently Signal Corps. living outdoors transferred naturally to gathering material to prepare a The Vietnam War captured the battlefield. “Going into the service memorial for veterans. Harvey, who Gordie’s attention while he was was an outlet for my father, my uncle has served as the flagbearer for WARRIORS working on construction of the Great Peter and their cousins Andrew and Canada Day and Remembrance Day Canadian Oil Sands site in the mid- Colin Loutitt from Fort Chipewyan, ceremonies in Fort McMurray, would 1960s. “He followed the Vietnam who all served in the Second World also like to see the Métis flag – which War on the radio – we didn’t have War,” Bill says. “They found something first flew in 1816 during the Battle of television in McMurray back then. He they were good at.” Seven Oaks – included. talked about getting involved and I David Waniandy agrees. His “I can still walk so I’ll be happy was concerned – I didn’t want him uncles Wally and Jimmy both served to be a flag bearer for the Métis flag,” to go. We all tried to talk him out of in the Korean War. “Wally went Harvey says. it,” says his sister Linda Boudreau- because there was nothing of work Recognition is important for Bill Semaganis. “Gordie told me, ‘I could value around here and he wanted to to help the younger generations who die outside the Oil Can. I want to do contribute. He had a lot of energy have been largely untouched by war something to better the world. If I and wanted to go out and contribute,” understand the sacrifices made by their have to die, I’m dying with honour.’” he says. forefathers. “Recognizing the Métis After completing boot camp Patriotism was also important contribution in wartime would tell a at the famed Marine Corps Base at for John Grant’s father, Robert, who better story to the younger generation.” Camp Pendleton near San Diego, he enlisted in the Edmonton Fusiliers and And Linda sees wisdom in returned briefly to Fort McMurray. “He saw action in the Netherlands. sharing the story of the sacrifices of was a boy when he left and a man “He said, ‘You fight for your her brother and other veterans with when he came back. I was so proud of country.’ And that was it. He didn’t talk young people in her community. him. We all were.” much about the bad things. People “We have a lot to confront as Gordie soon shipped out for don’t talk about combat and he lost a community with so many pointless his first tour of Vietnam in September alot of friends.He talkedaboutthe deaths,” she says. “Gordie didn’t die 1968. He was killed in action on good things,” John says. ameaninglessdeath.Hesacrificed March 12th, 1969. Most veterans didn’t share his life in service of others. As a Gordie was the latest in a long stories with their wives or children young woman, I didn’t understand line of members of Fort McMurray’s about their wartime experiences, which what I do today as an Elder. And I Métis community who served in the means some of that history is lost. share his story with young people military and saw combat. “We are a “He didn’t like talking about it – because I think it’s a message they family of warriors in a community of they went through hell over there,” can use today.” Of Trailsand Tails History and tradition remain important to the people of Alberta’s North. PATHWAYS | 13

ROBERT GRANDJAMBE WOULD PROBABLY BE JUST AS HAPPY LIVING IN 1817 AS HE IS IN 2017. THAT’S BECAUSE ROBERT AND HIS WIFE, BARBARA, LIVE COMFORTABLY OFF THE LAND AND WATER IN ALBERTA’S OLDEST COMMUNITY, FORT CHIPEWYAN. fish to feed my family and sled dogs, Delta and Lake Athabasca. Here, I hunt and trap for food to eat and visitors experience a landscape of vast “ pelts to sell, and I ofer sled dog beauty steeped in Canadian history. Itours the traditional way… one line of dogs, not two,” says Robert. “In The area became key during the early this area, sleds were pulled by dogs fur trade when, in 1778, a trapper in a single line because it’s easier to named Peter Pond entered the maneuver through the trees and bush.” Athabasca district and established Pond’s Fur Trading Post. A decade Robert and Barbara’s company, Atim later, Roderick Mackenzie relocated Ostogwan (Doghead), also ofers Pond’s house to the south shore summer boat tours throughout the of Lake Athabasca and – cont. q q q q q q q q q q q q q q q q

Thank you to the Fort Chipewyan Historical Society for their assistance with this story. renamed it Fort Chipewyan. In 1798, it was moved to its present-day location on the north shore. Fort Chipewyan was essential to the North West Fur Trading Company and the launching point of Alexander Mackenzie’s voyage of discovery to the Arctic Ocean. From here, he attempted to find an overland route to the Pacific Ocean because it was believed the ocean was only 150 miles west based on Pond’s map of the area.

In the 1790s, Fort Chipewyan boasted a general store, fur store and a library, built by Roderick Mackenzie, that grew to hold more than 2,000 books. The hamlet’s population today hovers around 1,000 with all the amenities of a modern-day town including internet, cable television, airport, skating rink and indoor swimming pool.

Robert and Barbara delight in sharing this rich history with guests who come to their home, a small bungalow simply decorated with family pictures adorning the walls. The cofee pot is always on and the aroma of fresh baked buns emanates from the kitchen where the couple love to sit and reminisce.

They raised three children and now have two grandchildren to whom they pass down stories and traditions. “As a parent, you try to give your children the best you can, give them the tools to take care of themselves. It’s irresponsible to not give your kids the best education possible and a historical perspective of where they came from.”

Barbara and Robert Grandjambe outside their home in Fort Chipewyan. q q q q q q q q q q q q HT ET rdtoal atre,hn mriee ltigaddghressaesilue nteGadab sled. Grandjambe the on used still are harnesses dog and clothing embroidered hand patterned, Traditionally LEFT: PHOTO out. heads team the landscape, winter the in blur colourful A team. the to addition newest the and Robert LEFT: PHOTOS

t’s a surprisingly smooth and quiet ride standing on the back of the sled as a team of powerful dogs pulls you Ithrough the boreal forest of northern Alberta or across the frozen rivers and lakes. The silence is deafening as crisp snow crunches mere centimetres below your feet.

Shout “Eui!” and the lead dog veers to the left. Yell “Cha!” and the dog turns to the right. “Your lead dog has to be smart and obey your commands,” says Robert who prefers to use the Cree language when mushing. “I don’t care if it doesn’t pull much, that’s the job of the other dogs hooked to the sled. But your lead dog has to know where you want to go. The other dogs will follow.”

As hard as it must be to pull a sled that weighs several hundred kilograms, you can tell the dogs love it. It’s as though they are laughing like school children playing tag during recess.

Robert has come a long way from his more rebellious youth. “I lived with my grandparents about 50 miles out on the trapline. I’m proud of my time with them. They taught me to be calm, and about respect, caring, and sharing with others.”

– cont. When he was five, he moved into Fort Chipewyan and went to residential school. “I liked it. But I must have been hard to handle because I was kicked out when I was 12,” he laughs.

However, it wasn’t a laughing matter when he was told to leave. “I asked them, ‘Where am I supposed to live?’, and was told ‘I don’t know, but not here.’ I ended up working odd jobs and living with diferent relatives.”

In the 1980s, he started making a modest living by giving dog sled tours and hasn’t stopped. For more than 35 years, Robert and Barbara have welcomed people from all over the world into their home and they take the opportunity to pass on a historical perspective of life in the North. This even includes teaching various arts and crafts.

Their guest list reads like a world map and includes people from as close as Fort McMurray and as far away as Europe. “We hosted the Prince of Norway here a few years ago,” says Barbara.

Their guest book is full of comments like: ‘Had a great weekend getting a glimpse of northern life.’; ‘Gracious and generous hosts.’; ‘You’re a great inspiration.’; ‘You are a wealth of information on the history and area.’

Last fall, Robert underwent triple bypass heart surgery which may have slowed him down a little, but hasn’t stopped him. “I still need to make money to live. But I have to take it easy, so now instead of me taking guests out on the dog sled, I teach them how to and I follow behind on the snowmobile.”

That’s not to say he doesn’t run the dogs for himself anymore. In fact, Robert has challenged his son and namesake to a trapping competition. “I’ll use my dogs and sled and he can use a modern-day snowmobile to check his trap lines for muskrat and other small fur- bearing animals. And, at the end of the season, we’ll see who makes a bigger profit once all the expenses are added up. A snowmobile may be faster, but it’s also noisier. Dogs are quieter so you don’t scare away the animals you’re trying to trap.”

No matter who wins, the challenge ofers Robert a lifestyle not too unlike that enjoyed by the area’s earliest inhabitants and fur traders centuries ago. q q q q q q q q q q 17 PATHWAYS | PHOTO ABOVE: PHOTO In Cree, Robert yells “Cha!” which instructs thelead dog toturn right.

q PHOTO LEFT: Frozen wetlands around Fort Chipewyan. RIGHT: The catch of the day, Northern Pike. ENDURANCE, LOYALTY & INTELLIGENCE 1

A Brief History of Dog Sledding in The North 3

ogs are commonly referred “Dog sledding was a common The Yukon Quest 1,000 Mile Dto as man’s best friends, means of transportation in the International Sled Dog Race, which although this relationship has region since the 1870s and was an gets its name from “the highway not always been based purely on important part of development and of the north”, is one of the world’s companionship. For many years, growth,” says Susan Walker of the most popular dog sled races. The the relationship between humans Fort McMurray Heritage Society. “It first race took place in 1984, with and dogs was about survival. was the best way to travel on frozen 26 teams leaving from Fairbanks, rivers and through dense woods. Alaska. Twenty teams made it to In Canada, Indigenous people were Clergy, fur trappers, fur traders and the Whitehorse finish line over the first to domesticate dogs. They RCMP also used dog sledding as the following 16 days, while the served many purposes for families transportation during the winter other teams dropped out along and communities including hunting months and, until 1930, it was how the way. The race has since and protection, but mainly as mail was delivered in the region.” continued each year, testing mushers and their dogs to the transportation by way of sled. Many Nowadays, with snowmobiles and ultimate limit in the coldest and researchers suggest that without other forms of winter transportation most unpredictable weather and dog sledding, survival may not have readily available, the need for dog along dangerous terrain. always been possible in some sledding has decreased. Dog northern Canadian communities sledding, or mushing, now thrives because of harsh winter climates. as a popular winter sport and hobby. PATHWAYS | 19

1 Man helping his Husky dog team jump across an open channel of water on ice at Taloyoak, Nunavut. (Richard Harrington, Library and Archives Canada, PA-129590).

2 From the McKenzie River - (Trapper, Dogteam, and sled). (Library and Archives Canada, PA-011706).

3 Log cabin and dog 2 team, Fort McMurray. (Archie McMullen, Provincial Archives of Alberta, A11991). 4 4 Dog Corrals, RCMP detachment, Ft. Chipewyan. (Harold Routledge, Provincial Archives of Alberta, A17137).

LEAD DOG Typically POINT DOG Often leaders SWING DOG Pulls the sled WHEEL DOG Typically the BASKET SLED Light and noted for a high level of in training other dogs. They and helps to maintain speed. strongest and heaviest dog maneuverable, carrying gear intelligence and commonly ensure the team follows turns who plays the crucial role of raised off the ground. female. Applies the initiated by the lead dog. pulling and steering the sled. musher’s commands and ensures correct direction.

GANGLINE TUGLINE

HANDLEBOW COMMON DOG SLEDDING TERMS TACK / BASKET MUSHER: The Sled Driver HARNESS ‘HIKE’ OR ‘MUSH’: Start pulling ‘KISSING’ SOUND: Speed up ‘GEE’: Turn right ‘HAW’: Turn left BRAKE ‘EASY’: Slow down ‘WHOA’: Stop ‘ON BY’: Pass another team orotherdistraction

Sources: The Fort McMurray Historical Society, RUNNER STANCHIONS BRIDLE The Canadian Encyclopedia

PATHWAYS | 21

Herb Belcourt remembered as an entrepreneur and philanthropist who inspired a generation. DREAM WEAVER

Humble beginnings can oftentimes be the engine that drives the very greatest of achievements. And perhaps no better example can be found than in Métis Elder Herb Belcourt. His desire to help others when he was young would lead him through a lifetime of service to the community and recognition across the country. PATHWAYS | 22

My greatest achievement, I think, was being involved in the creation of the Belcourt Brosseau Métis Awards program. It has made a tremendous and positive impact on our people.

Lesley and Herb Belcourt

erb passed to be remembered for his cousin and partner Orval more than 200 diferent away at his accomplished life and his Belcourt and friend and post-secondary programs Sherwood love of family, not for the partner Georges Brosseau, throughout Alberta. In all, Park home this disease that took him Herb launched Canative more than six million dollars Hpast July, just one day shy of from us.” Housing Corporation, a in awards have been given his 86th birthday. A couple non-profit organization that and more than 96 per cent weeks later, a capacity Herb’s success story began provided afordable housing of recipients have gone on crowd would gather at in 1958 when, dissatisfied to Indigenous people. It to finish their education. Festival Place to participate with the plastic coverings became the model for similar Graduates include doctors, in a celebration of his life. on his chrome kitchen organizations across Canada. nurses, lawyers, dentists, Those attending had been chairs, decided he’d re- electricians, hoteliers, asked to avoid wearing black upholster them himself. He “Herb just had the strength business managers and and instead encouraged to was happy with the result to be able to move forward,” pipe fitters. wear their favourite clothes and decided to canvas said Herb’s cousin Tony and colours. the neighbourhood to see Belcourt in a recent CBC Interviewed this past spring, if anyone else needed interview. “Herb could Herb expressed his immense “It was an upbeat furniture covered. They did, charm a lot of people pride in the program. “I’ve celebration and one that so Herb put an ad in the because he had natural been very fortunate in Herb would have approved paper and in a few days had charm… There was nothing my business life,” he said. of and been proud of,” more business than he could phony about him and I think “I’ve had great partners, says his widow Lesley handle. It wasn’t long before that’s one of his best assets.” outstanding support and Belcourt, who notes they his growing staf was doing alovingfamilywhohas celebrated their 44th work for trailer companies, In 2001, the three business always been there for me. wedding anniversary just a stores and individuals. partners gathered at the My greatest achievement, I few days before his passing. Edmonton Community think, was being involved in “In December, the doctors Over the years, Herb Foundation ofces and, the creation of the Belcourt told Herb that he had about established numerous with a $13 million donation, Brosseau Métis Awards amonthtolivebutwith businesses, including established the Belcourt program. It has made a determination and tenacity Belcourt Construction, Brosseau Métis Awards tremendous and positive he added six months more acompanythatgrew (BBMAs). To date, this impact on our people. to that number and we to be the third biggest initiative, supported in The ability for our young were both very grateful power-line construction part by Syncrude, has students to remain in school for the extra time together. company in Alberta. In provided over 1,500 awards to achieve their educational Herb would have wanted 1971, together with his to 1,100 Métis students in goals means a great deal to me. I am so proud as I watch brought him a great deal commendation for his this year includes words our youth not only reach of success, and as a result 35 years of service earlier about his final wishes this goal, but go on to lead he was recognized for his this year. and long-standing vision. productive and meaningful accomplishments as both “Herb wanted to see the lives in careers they once abusinessmanandasa Recognition continued in creation of a unique, holistic didn’t believe possible.” philanthropist. He received 2017 when he was inducted healing centre for women; an honourary Doctorate into the Alberta Junior afacilitycompletewithall According to many, Herb’s of Laws Degree from the Achievement Business Hall the professionals needed achievements will have University of Alberta in 2001 of Fame and became the in recovery programs. He far-reaching impacts for and was a recipient of an first Métis person to receive called the vision ‘Healing years to come. “Herb was Indspire Award in 2005. the Aboriginal Business Waters’ because he wanted an inspiration not only to He is also among a select Hall of Fame Lifetime to see the facility built at the Métis community but group of people recognized Achievement Award. In May, Métis Crossing, close to the our country as a whole,” with the Order of Canada, the County of Strathcona river and near the old church.” says Martin Garber- which he received in 2010. and the hamlet of Sherwood Conrad, chief executive Park named a park in his Herb’s legacy lives on and ofcer of the Edmonton Until 2013, Herb was also honour, and in June he his contributions won’t soon Community Foundation. an Aboriginal Advisor to was inducted into the City be forgotten. In a letter to “His passing is truly a loss, the Commanding Ofcer of Edmonton Community Herb earlier this year, Prime but because of his vision at “K” Division for the Royal Service Hall of Fame. Minister Justin Trudeau the BBMAs will continue Canadian Mounted Police shared his gratitude on to provide opportunity to (RCMP). “In addition to Success also followed behalf of the country: “The Métis students across the being a role model to all Herb into the world of honours you’ve earned over province as they realize Canadians, Dr. Belcourt’s literature when, in 2006, he the years are too numerous self-sufciency through contribution to the Royal published Walking in the to name (but) in their totality post-secondary education Canadian Mounted Police in Woods: A Métis Journey. It they reflect a remarkable and skills development.” this province exemplifies the quickly became a best seller lifetime of servitude both highest level of leadership and the book has been to the Métis community and Though Herb never sought and commitment to public reprinted several times. to the Province of Alberta.” the limelight, his ongoing service,” says former RCMP entrepreneurship and Deputy Commissioner Herb’s widow Lesley says his low-key approach Marianne Ryan who anew preface inthe most to everyday problems presented Herb with a recent edition released

Because of his vision the BBMAs “will continue to provide opportunity to Métis students across the province as they realize self- sufficiency through post-secondary education and skills development.

Martin Garber-Conrad, Chief Executive Ofcer of the Edmonton Community Foundation

Herb Belcourt is inducted into the Order of Canada by Governor General David Johnston.

PATHWAYS | 25

FromFrom Believer Believer toto Achiever Achiever

f Michaela Loutitt has her way, studies in medicine. Inspired by her mother, a she will be practicing medicine pharmacist, and an older sister who is a doctor, I and helping people become Michaela has her sights set on physiotherapy. the best they can be. “Ever since I was young I’ve wanted to be in the health care field,” says Michaela. “When I looked into The student from Fort McMurray received the Belcourt the future I saw myself helping people.” Brosseau Métis Award in 2016 and is currently Helping comes naturally to the second year enrolled in the Bachelor of Science program at the university student, who volunteers with Métis Local University of Alberta majoring in Biology. Thanks to 1935 and the Indigenous students club at school. the award, her academic dreams are closer than ever. She also has a large circle of friends she enjoys The Belcourt Brosseau Métis supporting and encouraging. “I’m Awards help students realize their always there to help them out,” says potential through post-secondary “This is the Michaela. “I try to be someone they education and skills development. can look up to by being the best I More than $6.7 million has been first award can and showing them they can awarded to 1,500 Métis youth I have ever received. do it too.” across the province since the The youngest of three girls, I’m truly honoured. awards were established in 2001. Michaela received a lot of support Scholarships are supported by It’s a big help from her family to pursue post- endowments provided by Syncrude when you are secondary education and was and other organizations for the influenced by the strong women foundation established by the late going to school.” in her life. While she also has an Herb Belcourt, his cousin Orval interest in Native Studies and is Belcourt and Georges Brosseau. considering a minor in the subject, “This is the first award I have ever received. I’m she currently remains focused on physiotherapy truly honoured,” says Michaela. “It’s a big help when and perhaps a medical degree. you are going to school.” Whichever path she chooses, Michaela’s That’s especially true when there are seven smarts and enthusiasm will undoubtedly lead her years of university in her future as she pursues from believer to achiever. EDUCATION ACaringHeart

ara Voyageur admits her academic journey has rarely S been easy. But for her, the victories along the way have made it all worthwhile. As a young girl growing up in Fort Chipewyan, Sara felt a strong responsibility to her family and heritage. Living in the remote, small hamlet, she jumped at the opportunities to learn about Indigenous culture and the world around her from her parents and three grandmas. Now as a second year nursing student, she feels the support of the entire community. “Every time I go home, people ask ‘when is this little nurse Sara going to be finished with school? Is she going to come back and take care of me?’. I feel because of their support I have a big role to fill,” says Sara. “I’ve had challenges and still do, But it wasn’t until late high school when Sara decided to pursue nursing. but these challenges help me grow.” “The first interaction I had with the profession was during annual immunizations at the nursing station in Chip,” she says. “There was a nurse named Claudette and I was inspired by the way she interacted with me. She had a caring attitude and helped me get through my fear of needles. You could “After my first year in the nursing program, I ended up failing,” tell she was passionate about her career.” says Sara. “I was ashamed and I felt like a failure. I had come so far Sara completed high school with and worked so hard to get here but was questioning if I could do it. I average marks, but still needed to enroll wouldn’t have reapplied if it wasn’t for my parents talking me through it.” in academic upgrading courses to enter Sara’s parents encouraged her not to give up. “They said, nursing. She knew the program would ‘failing is not the end. It’s the beginning. For some people it’s an not be without its challenges but, with the easy straight career path, but for others it’s a struggle’ and that’s support of family and friends, she finished what happened with me.” as the student with the highest grades Sara hopes her story encourages Aboriginal youth to pursue since 1980. their dreams no matter what they might face. Next, Sara entered the pre-nursing “Look at me, I’m not perfect. I’ve had challenges and still do, program at Keyano College while finishing but these challenges help me grow,” she says. “Getting what you up a critical math course. Although she want out of life is hard work but it starts with getting your high school initially hoped to enter university directly, diploma, and then anything is possible.” she quickly completed the program and In 2016, Sara received Syncrude’s Rod Hyde Aboriginal started first year nursing the following year. Education Award for her academic achievements. The award However, things didn’t go as planned. honours Rod Hyde, a former Fort McKay School principal. PATHWAYS | 27 EDUCATION The Way of the Drum Local program teaches the values of cooperation and responsibility

he 2016-17 school year marked the 10th anniversary of the Dr. Clark Drumming T and Leadership Group, but it almost didn’t happen. The wildfire that forced the evacuation of Fort McMurray on May 3rd, 2016, enveloped the city in a thick layer of smoke for several days. It damaged beyond repair the more than 30 drums and regalia the students used. “We had to dispose of it all and I had no idea where or when we would be able to replace it,” says group founder and Dr. Karl A. Clark school teacher/ counselor Eileen Lucas. “But just as they did when we started this group, Syncrude stepped up and donated the funds to buy all new drums, drumsticks, rattles and costumes required. I am so thankful for Syncrude’s community spirit and generosity.” Over the years, Eileen has seen more than 100 students from Grades 3-6 partake in her unique program that teaches them cultural songs. They practice once a week during their lunch hour and then perform at school functions and other celebrations. But learning to drum and sing traditional songs are not all they learn. “I teach them how to use the drum, what it represents and all responsibilities associated with it. Once you learn how to play, you’re expected to teach others how to play the drum,” says Eileen. “I also teach them many attributes they can take away, like leadership, cooperation and volunteerism because we play events in the community.” This year, five students from Beacon Hill School joined her group. “Because of wildfire damage to their school, they share our facilities and some students wanted to join,” says Eileen. “My dream is to see all children in all schools playing the drum because it’s so relaxing and it’s considered a healing object.” Eileen Lucas and the 2016-17 Dr. Clark Drumming and Leadership Group. PATHWAYS | 28

EDUCATION A LEADER

herisse Salopree grew up in a family that After receiving her HR diploma, Sherisse completed understood the importance of education her Commerce degree. Now she has her sights set on S and the foundational role it plays towards one day owning and operating an employment agency arewardingandfulfillinglife.“WhenI to help people achieve their own ambitions. Exploring was younger I wanted to get a Commerce degree her Indigenous roots is also paramount. even before I understood what it meant. It sounded so “My culture is important to me and the older I important,” says Sherisse. get, the more I want to learn about my culture and While her career journey is just beginning, it traditions, who I am and where I came from,” says didn’t start with a clear path. Sherisse, a member of Sherisse. Her family strengthens that connection the Dene Tha’ First Nation while her volunteer work with ties to the Alexis Nakota keeps her engaged in the Sioux First Nation, tried community. She participates studies at the University in the Aboriginal Women’s of Alberta and Concordia Professional Association, University before taking a Canadian Native Friendship break to truly find her passion. Centre and Edmonton’s Putting her education on hold Heritage Festival. was a difcult decision, but Sherisse believes there she felt she couldn’t continue is a great future for Aboriginal her studies until finding people to participate in the something meaningful to economy. “We’re the fastest work towards. growing segment of the For Sherisse, inspiration population and education was close to home. Her provides opportunities for us,” mother had obtained a she says. “I want to be a role Social Work degree with model for future generations honours while caring for two of Aboriginal youth in the children. “She is a role model business sector.” and having her and my dad Sherisse received see me graduate was my financial assistance for her inspiration,” says Sherisse. Sherisse and her mother Maxine on the studies as the 2017 recipient campus at MacEwan University. “I knew if I didn’t go back to of the Stephen Mandel school, I wouldn’t pursue or Aboriginal Business Award, finish my education.” “We’re the fastest growing segment presented by Syncrude. The She was drawn to of the population and education scholarship is awarded to provides opportunities for us. the Human Resources a First Nations, Métis, or I want to be a role model for future Management program Inuit student enrolled in generations of Aboriginal youth at MacEwan University MacEwan University’s School in the business sector.” for its seemingly endless of Business. It was created opportunities and the variety of jobs from recruitment to honour Edmonton’s former mayor and continue to management. “Human Resources isn’t always his work in support of the long term success of viewed as important, but when you think about it, Aboriginal people. you’re responsible for hiring the people and creating Says Sherisse, “On my graduation day, I could the culture for an organization,” says Sherisse. “I like see how proud my parents were. As crazy as it was, I that aspect of it.” felt their love that day more than ever.” PATHWAYS | 29

IN WAITING

Sherisse Salopree is the 2017 recipient of the Stephen Mandel Aboriginal Business Award, presented by Syncrude. High achievers FORT MCMURRAY SCHOOLS BOAST HIGHER GRADUATION RATES OF INDIGENOUS STUDENTS THAN THE REST OF ALBERTA PATHWAYS | 31

ather Patrick Mercredi “Liaisons have a key role in maintaining to be a part of the group so others High School hosts a relationships with families. We can learn about that culture.” community feast every fall encourage families to come to school F The districts also access experts to welcome the families of to see it’s a safe place for their in the wider community to provide new students coming from outlying children. We’ve done family feasts for additional programming for Aboriginal communities such as Fort McKay and many years, with the fall feasts. We students, such as the Aboriginal Anzac. And every fall, principal usually get 300 or so families coming Youth Entrepreneurship Program Natasha MacArthur-Poole knows in. Some students are billeted so it’s at Father Mercredi High School. A some people might not be comfortable important for them to come and meet national program started by former entering the building and understands us,” she says. “At Father Mercredi, Prime Minister Paul Martin, it has why. “People who attended residential Kayla Aikins is our new liaison working proven enormously successful due schools aren’t just going to walk into a with classroom support teacher Jef to access to mentors such as Mitch school,” Natasha explains. “You have Power to build supports for our Mercredi, the business development to work at building that relationship.” Aboriginal students, and educating manager for Acden. parents about the needs of our kids In addition to making adults more at and the requirements they need to be “I wish I had this kind of program when ease with entering the school, both of successful in school.” I was going to school,” says Mitch. Fort McMurray’s school districts are “Fortunately I received that mentorship making phenomenal progress at In addition to personal relationships, from my father, who is a local business seeing their children and grandchildren both districts have emphasized the entrepreneur and one of the founders leave as graduates, so much so that importance of learning about of the Northeastern Alberta Aboriginal Alberta Education has approached Aboriginal culture and traditions. Business Association (NAABA). As a both districts to look at their programs, mentor in the program, I discuss the activities and other practices. The hard work and challenges involved reason: both districts have graduation in running a business. My goal is to rates far higher than the rest of the ignite that spark in them and help province while their dropout rates are them understand what it takes to be far lower than the rest of Alberta. successful. It’s very rewarding for me – Doug Nicholls, superintendent of Fort I value the opportunity to watch and McMurray Public Schools, sees the guide these young minds as they find success stemming from a district-wide their entrepreneurial spirits.” focus along with support from the Annalee Nutter, principal of Walter & wider community, including Syncrude. Gladys Hill School, also sees benefits “We have a lot of advantages here in of engaging with the wider community Fort McMurray that other communities to provide additional activities for don’t have, including great support students. Sonia Burke-Smith of the from industry and a very strong Boreal Artist Institute has worked with Indigenous business community who students on everything from medicine are committed to the success of wheels to decorating a teepee. First Nations and Métis students,” “There’s a lot of art-based activities says Doug. Local graduate and Acden business development manager Mitch Mercredi. but there are cross-curricular Both districts have committed to activities such as social studies and working with Aboriginal students from even health,” says Annalee. “We the time they enter the school system. incorporate the Teachings of the “When you come into Dr. Clark School Seven Grandfathers at our school “We have had liaisons for our Aboriginal and the ofce, there’s a very large with curriculum and activities tied to students and their families since the dreamcatcher and posters with the adiferent teaching every month.” early 1990s,” says Monica Mankowski, Teachings of the Seven Grandfathers,” deputy superintendent for Inclusive says Merrie-Rae Mitsopoulos, who These programs, supports and activities Education at the Catholic district, served as principal of the downtown have provided the building blocks that whose graduation rate for Aboriginal elementary school until this summer. have led to successful results. students was more than 85 per cent in “We also have activities such as the Says George McGuigan, superintendent the 2015/16 school year, more than drumming and leadership group for the Catholic district, “When you double the national average. That that learns traditional drumming pay attention to your students and support continues right through Grade and wears traditional regalia that’s provide the supports where necessary, 12, but Natasha sees it as vital for headed by Eileen Lucas. This allows they will succeed.” students coming in from outlying Indigenous students to celebrate their communities, such as Fort McKay. own culture but all students are invited A BIG HEART A True Calling EDUCATION he school hallways are and with the help of mentors Sara like busy city streets Loutitt and Debra Kitching she has T when it’s time for class never looked back. She eventually change. Trudie-Ann took over duties for organizing the Plamondon watches over the annual Traditional Celebration of chaos while visiting with students, Achievement and also helps singling out a few to focus on their organize the twice annual Family studies, and hurrying them of to Feasts to celebrate Aboriginal their next class. culture with staf, students and She is one of nine First their family members. “The first Nations, Métis, Inuit (FNMI) liaisons time we had a family feast only four in the Fort McMurray Catholic people attended and they came School Division who support all the way from Janvier. Today Indigenous students and connect we regularly have 250 people them to their culture and traditions. attending,” says Trudie-Ann. Trudie-Ann’s beat is Father As the school year ends, Mercredi Community High School Trudie-Ann does a handover with 1,200 students, of which with the other liaisons to identify 28 per cent are of self-declared high-risk students and those who Indigenous descent. In many ways may need some help. She reaches this is her dream job, but it wasn’t out to all of them in the fall and, an easy journey. in particular, the students from A member of Métis Local smaller communities who live 1935, Trudie-Ann was born in with local families while they Fort McMurray and raised in attend high school. Fort Chipewyan. After her children “It can be difcult for these were well into their school years, students to leave their community,” Trudie-Ann pursued a career says Trudie-Ann. “They don’t have as a paramedic. The plan hit the connection right away and a roadblock when she was they are lonely. I’m there, I’m diagnosed and treated for cancer visible. It means a lot to me to on three separate occasions. support them.” When the battle ended and She knows this first-hand her health returned, her interest in having moved from Fort Chipewyan being a paramedic had waned. She to attend school in Fort McMurray, turned to the Educational Assistant and through her involvement with program at Keyano College where the Athabasca Tribal Council’s she also became an active Boarding Home Program for the participant in the Aboriginal Room last 17 years. where students held meetings, With such a great reputation, potlucks, study groups, and Trudie-Ann gets a lot of organized events like Aboriginal encouragement to remain Days on campus. Then a friend told in her role. This includes her her about an FNMI liaison position. granddaughter who, despite “She saw something in me being in the fifth grade, is that I never realized myself,” says excited about coming to her Trudie-Ann. “She said, ‘You’re grandmother’s school. always here to support other “If I keep hearing, ‘Don’t people. This job is you.’” leave until I graduate,’ I’ll never Trudie-Ann landed the job retire,” laughs Trudie-Ann. PATHWAYS | 33

I’m there. I’m visible. It means a lot to me to supporT them. Preserving language through technology

he Cree conversational aid when language talking with Elders who T is spoken are Cree speakers. by some To date, the team working 120,000 people across on the application has Canada, but a declining collected and recorded number of youth are more than 447 words continuing to learn it. with 120 already installed. The Athabasca Tribal Council (ATC) hopes to “Our goal is to continue reverse that trend with to build on the library a unique mobile app of words,” says Byron. developed to help “It’s important as an preserve the language Indigenous person to be for future generations. proud of your heritage and want to speak the “We wanted to create an language. The app’s application that younger vocabulary currently Indigenous people could includes important easily access. Today’s nouns as well as words youth spend countless for medicines, numbers, hours on their mobile directions, weather, the devices, so why not calendar, and parts of bring the information to the body.” them in a form they can relate to,” says Byron The ATC is also Bates, councilor with now building a Dene Fort McMurray #468 language version of First Nation and creator the mobile app. of the ATC Cree App. Byron, who holds a The free application is Bachelor of Science downloadable from degree with a major in iTunes and Google Play. Computer Science from It allows users to look up Vancouver Island English words and see University, was pleased the Cree translation. An to ofer his support in audio feature lets them creating the app. “I am hear how the Cree word glad to be a part of this is pronounced. The app unique project and focuses on Cree dialects excited to watch it of northeastern Alberta. grow,” he says. It was designed for To date, the beginners and those application App developer Byron with some previous has been Bates demonstrates knowledge of the downloaded the language translator to Robyn Milton. language. It can be used more than for self-study or as a 5,000 times. PATHWAYS | 35

Pîkiskwiwin manâcihcikewin sâposci isi technology

Nīhithawewin pīkiskwīwin mitoni nânithâw 120,000 ithisiniwak itâpacihtâw wâsakâm Kânata, maka oskāya ithiniw akihthāson ayahci-isi kiskêyihthamowin ohci. Athabasca Tribal Council (ATC) isi pakoseyimiwak ta-asēpitha ekwanima trend asici peyakwayith sêwêpicikan app osihcikewin ta-wichihkoyin nîsohkamâkewin pīkiskwewin kici ayaniskach nîkâniwin. “Ni-nithawêyihtâkwan ta-osîhcikâtik osākaskinahtamohiwewin nīhithaw oskāyak kici ta-wēhcasik ta-âpacihtât. Anohc kâ-kîsikâk osk-ithisiniw mâmawaci kwanta ayiwāk mestinikew wiyawāw ka-tepeyihthahkwāw sêwêpicikana, êcika ani tānēhki mwâc ka-pêtayin âcimostakewin ta-nistohtâhkwaw,”itwew Byron Bates, wiyasiwêhkâniwiw asici Fort McMurray #468 First Nation mīna otôsihcikew ohci ATC Nīhithawewin App. Ōma mosci-mêkiwin osākaskinahtamohiwewin isi pakitinkāthēwohciiTunes mīna Google Play. Pakitinkāthēw ta-âpacihthâ kici ka natonamihk kīkway ākayāsimowin ēkospīhk ta-wapahtam nīhithawewin itwêstamâkêwin. Pīkiskwīwin mina ta-ke natohtamwak tanisi isi nīhithawewin isi pīkiskwī. Ōma app nahâpahcikewin kici nīhithawewin dialects isi northeastern Alberta. Isîhcikâtêw ōma kici nistam mâcihtawin mīna aniki asici kayâhtê ka-kiskeyitamwak ōma pīkiskwīwin. Ke-āpacihtāk kici tipiyaw awîyak wiyapoko ahpo ka âtotamihk kîkway kispin ka-pīkiskwīyin asici kihtehayah aniki nīhithawewin isi pīkiskwīwak. Anohc ōma kâ-kîsikâk, mâmawi atoskathamwak ōma osākaskinahtamohiwewin ke-mâwasakonamwak mina masinahikâtiw athiwak 447 pîkiskwīwina asici 120 asay takwascikewin. “Nîyanân eyoko ohcithaw âhkameyithamowin ta-osihtha isi ayamihcikāwikamik pîkiskwīwina,”itwew Byron.” Mâmawaci nîkâneyihthâkwan isi indigenous ithisiniwak ta-mamihteyita ohci nanâtohkôskânesiwin ikwa ta-nohte kiskeyithamin ōma pîkiskwīwin. Ōhi app’s nīhithawewin āsay ewakomīna kihci nouns mina pîkiskwīwina kici maskihky, akihthāsowin, kiskinwahikewin,tanisi isi-kīsikāw, calendar, mina kithaw.” ATC mina osehtawak Cīpwēyān pîkiskwīwina isi sêwêpicikana app. Byron, miciminam Bachelor of Science degree asici major isi masinatakan science ohci Vancouver Island University, takahkēthimow ta-mekihth nāthamākēwin ka-osehtah ōma app. “Ni-takahkēyithin ta-wīcihiwewiyan ōma peyakwayask isi poko mina ni-miyowāthin ta-wāpathaman ta-ohpiki. Anohc ōma kâ-kîsikâk, ōma osākaskinahtamohiwewin ki-tahki āpatan athiwak tahthwaw 5,000. BREAKING

THROUGH Program opens up a world of hope and possibility

f art is a British Columbia’s Boston was serving when I created at the Fort Saskatchewan window to the Bar First Nation, he moved the art for this exhibit is Correctional Centre, helped I soul, a new to Edmonton in 2014 to another setback, but one organize the exhibition traveling secure employment. that I have learned a great together with colleague exposition is opening However, a year later, deal from.” Kathryn Wheaton and AGA the shutters and raising with the economy sagging, curator Shane Golby. She The opportunity to be the blinds. Tiger, an experienced notes Tiger’s gratitude is logger and construction featured in the exhibit has not unique. “The art The exhibition, Breaking worker with seven months given Tiger new hope and program draws a lot of Barriers – The Artist Inside, of apprenticeship carpentry his grafti-style artwork is interest,” she explains. features artwork created by under his belt, was laid of garnering many positive “The success really belongs Indigenous artists who are from his job. comments. “I’ve been to inmates who are serious or were incarcerated in creating art most of my life about their work and the “I’m 34 years old and can’t provincial corrections but this is the first time my many staf members who believe how foolhardy I was centres. Part of the work has been showcased work alongside them.” Traveling Exhibition (TREX) to wind up in jail,” says Tiger. in a public forum,” he says. program sponsored by “As a child I had a rough “Being involved has helped Like Tiger, Marty Deslauriers Syncrude at the Art Gallery beginning and for the most me to re-evaluate myself also forged a new path of Alberta (AGA), it has part grew up on the streets. and I am confident that the through the program. proven to be a positive Before I was 15 years old I inspiration I’m taking away “Creating art has really helped me to not only adjust influence for those who’ve had been in and out of more from this experience will than a dozen foster care to the surroundings of a fallen through the cracks. enable me to achieve even and group homes and as a corrections facility but greater heights.” Featured artist Abray ‘Tiger’ result have had to overcome it has also given me a better Isaac was thrilled to be a lot of negativity in my life. Wendy Vanderbleek, understanding of who I am included. A member of The six-month sentence I deputy director of programs as a person,” he says. “I’ve PATHWAYS | 37

LEFT: Matthew Michaud The Raven Who Stole the Sun and got Burnt, 2016. Oil on canvas, 18 inches x 23 7/8 inches. Picture Perfect RIGHT: Shane Blyan ‘Untitled’, 2016. Ink on paper, hen works of art began appearing in the atrium of 14 inches x 17 inches. Timberlea Public School, Drew Starr didn’t realize BELOW: he was going to have the “most fun I’ve ever had in Marty Deslauriers ‘Summer Reflections’, 2016. Pencil on mailing envelopes, W 5 3/4 inches x 9 1/2 inches. my life at school.” Abray ‘Tiger’ Isaac ‘Rookie’, 2016. Pencil crayon on paper, 9 inches x 12 inches. Drew, a Grade 6 student, is one of hundreds of youth from Timberlea and Christina Gordon public schools who had the opportunity to view the TREX exhibit. “All the artists had their own ideas,” Drew says. “They were all unique and special in their own way.”

Timberlea School principal Waleed Najmeddine says the exhibit presented a unique learning opportunity for students at both schools.

“Not all of us are very artistic but we need to bring that to the students in our schools. I can’t model that but I’m not limited by my lack of artistic ability as an educator when you have a program like this,” Waleed says. “We can expose students to this creativity through artists and their artwork. The children can see what’s possible and spark their own imaginations and creativity.”

Gavin Rutledge, a teacher at Christina Gordon, sees the exhibit as providing something that can’t be found on the page of a textbook or a computer screen. “Some of our students don’t have that opportunity to look at artwork first hand. Having the art in front of you makes it a completely different experience,” says Gavin.

Along with the exhibit, the Art Gallery of Alberta provides been doing well since my School (see sidebar) and schools with lesson plans and activities based specifically release and I believe that the Spruce Grove Public on the artwork in the exhibit. has a great deal to do with Library. Britney Robinson, the support I received the library’s community The assignments proved to be a lot of fun for Grade 6 in Fort Saskatchewan services coordinator, notes student Alexandria Harrison. “It was pretty cool because Correctional, especially the exhibit was well we got to learn about the art and write about it,” she says. being able, even received. “It is truly an “I enjoyed learning about art and other cultures. You could encouraged, to draw uplifting and inspiring really see the artist’s emotions in their work.” and paint and create art. exhibition designed to open Iamnowontheoutside minds and create new doors looking in and feeling more of opportunity,” she says. confident about my future The exhibit continues than ever before. The until December 2019. A opportunity to be a part gratuity of $7,380 from the of this unique exhibition AGA is being directed to has made me realize that the Inmate Welfare Fund maybe I do have some to support art programs talent as far as art goes and projects in Alberta’s and I think I can expand correctional centres. on that by making life better For more information, for myself in all areas.” visit www.youraga.ca. Breaking Barriers is on tour throughout Alberta, including visits to Fort McMurray’s Timberlea Chief Bernadette Sharpe and Elder Dolly Letendre outside of the Loon River School.

SETTINGTHE PATH TO

A POSITIVE I’ve learned over the FUTURE “years that you can have aspirations to lead and succeed, but to do so you need to have support.” Chief Bernadette Sharpe PATHWAYS | 39

t’s been said we don’t development and personal growth. that we are getting more local choose our destiny, Already, the band council has people involved in the schools. I destiny chooses us. added around $400,000 to the We want to ensure a mixture of For Chief Bernadette $135,000 received from the federal Indigenous and Western culture Sharpe of the Loon River First government to support post- so that our people are able to Nation, however, it was also clear secondary education. In addition, make choices about what they members had a say in the matter the council supports any member want to do and where they want when she achieved a landslide who pursues an education degree to do it.” victory in the band election a year with the intent of returning to teach When it comes to the local ago. Now the community’s destiny in the community. economy, the First Nation operates has become her own. five businesses, including a new Asuccessfulbusinessperson,Chief truck stop which employs 18 Sharpe hadn’t set out to become community members. Loon River an ofcial voice for her First Nation. Cree Contracting is also going But it all started in 2004 when strong with about 25 employees. many encouraged her to run for a Established in the early 90s, the position on the band council. company ofers such expertise as road building, reclamation and “I’ve learned over the years that snow removal. you can have aspirations to lead and succeed, but to do so you Chief Sharpe’s accomplishments need to have support,” says Chief have not gone unnoticed. In 2016, Sharpe. “I think people in the she was inducted into the Institute community believed in me and for the Advancement of Aboriginal had faith in me.” Women’s Esquao Circle of Honour, sponsored by Syncrude. “It was After serving three terms on both a thrilling and humbling Council, she was encouraged “Education is first and foremost, it experience,” she says. “I am so to run for the position of Chief. is the key to success,” says Chief grateful for the acknowledgement.” She accepted the challenge and Sharpe. “We want to ensure that Even with such a list of successes, was voted in unanimously by the those who want to move ahead Chief Sharpe stresses the future of 600-member community. “I sold have the opportunity to do so.” my business to avoid any type of the First Nation is not hers to guide Self-respect and respecting others alone. “Community support means conflicting interest and put my are also key mandates. “We are everything, as does the positive nose to the grindstone while I very involved in our school system relationship I have with my Elders. learned exactly what it was to and are in the process of They help put things in perspective. be Chief,” she says. establishing our own education The wisdom and guidance I’ve In her role, Chief Sharpe has three authority,” she says. “We would received from them has helped areas of focus – education and like to have a say in how our our community become a better employment, economic children are taught and to achieve place to live.” ninitiative by the completion rates. In fact, Fort Fort McMurray Education and McMurray has one of the highest A Catholic School culture guide students graduation rates for Aboriginal District is having to graduation students in the province. apositiveimpactonlearning “Certainly graduation rates outcomes for First Nation, Métis are our biggest payof,butwhat and Inuit (FNMI) students. With the goal of ensuring you can’t see on paper is the pride students feel students complete high school, the FNMI Program about their culture,” says Lucy. “Some families also provides a greater understanding of Aboriginal buried their culture and our liaisons dig up the history, cultures and traditions to families and the culture and help the kids be proud that they are greater community. First Nations, Métis, or wherever they come from. The key to the program is the FNMI liaisons That pride is going to carry on and we’ll see it assigned to each school. They create a welcoming growing in the next generation where they are proud environment for the students, use a one-on-one of their culture to start with instead of learning to be approach to addressing student needs, and track proud of it when they come to school.” attendance and overall student progress. Financial and in-kind support from Syncrude “Our liaisons build a team with the students, and other businesses in the region help the FNMI their teachers and their families,” says Lucy Moore, Program deliver services beyond what can be done director of Indigenous Education for Fort McMurray with the liaisons in the schools. Funds are used for Catholic Schools. “When the families take part, their materials, field trips, professional development for kids attend school. And when they attend school, staf,andscholarships. we can teach them and they graduate. It’s a big “We are very lucky to provide the best of both wheel of success.” worlds: we have the human resources to deliver In addition to supporting learning for FNMI the program and the funds for the extras we need students, the liaisons also make Aboriginal because of the generosity of so many companies,” culture meaningful and active in the schools for all says Lucy. students. This is achieved through family feasts, One of the biggest events of the year comes multicultural nights, special celebrations like mini at the end of May when the liaisons participate Treaty Days, or events like Louis Riel Day and in the Traditional Celebration of Achievement for Orange T-Shirt day in recognition of residential students who are eligible to graduate. This year, schools. Also, an entrepreneurship program 149 were invited to the Keyano Theatre to recognize matches students with Aboriginal business owners. their success and receive a dressed eagle feather The variety of interactions Aboriginal students from a respected Elder. have with their liaisons from kindergarten to high And, afterwards, their liaisons gave themselves school has resulted in an increase in high school agrouphug.Missionaccomplishedforanotheryear.

FNMI liaisons pictured from left to right: Alyssa Mayers, Beverly Pierce, Christine Alexander, Allison Flett, Janice Kendell, Elaine Dampier, Trudie-Ann Plamondon, Kayla Aikins, Yvette Friesen. PATHWAYS | 41

Fort McMurray #468 First Nation youth coordinator Nick Vardy and youth counselors Tyrone Chalifoux and Erica Cree.

SHAPING THE FUTURE EDUCATION he Fort “We want to get the youth of our New to the program in 2017 is a community of the couch and help focus on cultural programming for T McMurray #468 prep them for what lies ahead,” says the Friday development days. youth counselor Tyrone Chalifoux. First Nation’s “The cultural component is about “As a teen, I participated in the Summer Work Program preserving our culture and program, but it was diferent back ensuring knowledge that our aims to motivate youth then. It was just a work-placement Elders have is passed down,” around the community, picking up today while preparing says Nick. “The youth worked garbage and odd jobs. We’ve really with our Elders and participated in them for tomorrow. added to the program to help these workshops on hunting, fishing, and youth build their independence.” “We want to provide an opportunity even beading this past summer.” for the youth of our community to In 2016, Nick, Tyrone and youth Most of the program improvements grow, build their confidence and in counselor Erica Cree knew they seen in the past two summers the end discover their possibilities needed to add more depth to the were ideas generated from the for the future,” says Nick Vardy, program so they allocated every local youth themselves. youth coordinator for Fort McMurray Friday of the eight-week placement #468 First Nation. “The program’s to personal development. “The Youth Council set up a private whole intent is to get these teens Facebook account for all teens The new and improved program, ready for life as an adult.” in our community to share their supported in part by Syncrude, ideas and tell us in their own The Summer Student Program is ofers a variety of additional words what they are interested an annual program open to all training every Friday. Youth in accomplishing,” says Erica. youth above the age of 15 who participate in a personal financial “We then took their feedback and live in the First Nation community. course provided by RBC, First incorporated as much as possible The program remodeled in 2017 Aid training, driver’s licence into the program. The response to ofer internships with local preparation, a drug and alcohol was overwhelmingly positive businesses. Work placements abuse course, visits to universities and really helped shaped the were provided to students and colleges, and an annual tour eight-week program.” throughout the summer with a of local industry to speak with few other added development company representatives about opportunities. trade and technical opportunities. PATHWAYS | 42

COMMUNITY W ILDFIRE PROFILE DYNAMIC Father a nd son join forces to Standing DUO fight the flames Ovation Recognizing the greatness in our communities

Iwasproud to he Academy Awards. stand with my dad The ESPYs. The Pulitzer. and our fire team. “ We T Each year, thousands saw so m uch of awards are given damage and out across the world for success in destruction but entertainment, sports and science, we also saved so to name a few. But for those in Wood very much. ” Trace Quintal Buffalo, there can be no greater gift than the thanks of their community. Each year, the Regional Aboriginal Recognition Awards (RARA) applaud residents who have made a Ron and Trace Quintal positive and visible difference in the were featured in the 2016 world around them. CONGRATULATIONS TO ALL edition of Pathways. At the 2017 ceremony, Fort 2017 RARA RECIPIENTS! McKay Métis President and deputy fire chief Ron Quintal received the JUNIOR ACHIEVEMENT LEADERSHIP Leadership Award for his selfless actions Taylor Golosky Ron Quintal Exander Lacorde during the Fort McMurray wildfire. OUTSTANDING ATHLETE When Ron and firefighters from Darian Milton James Poitras throughout the region battled the blaze, Meeah Morice they were fighting to keep family, Sam Olson OUTSTANDING ADULT STUDENT friends and homes in the community Precious Paquette Megan Plews safe. The selection committee noted Tayden Shott Russell Tipler ARTS AWARD Ron as “a great leader who loves his Aiden Voyageur Mary McKenzie community and works hard to ensure that his members are treated fairly and FEMALE YOUTH OF THE YEAR VOLUNTEER respectfully.” They also commended Alexis Herman Jessica Herman him for his “ethics, accountability MALE YOUTH OF THE YEAR ENTREPRENEUR and grace in handling situations.” Adam Boucher Marie Boucher In addition, Ron has been recognized as one of Fort McMurray’s Top 50 ELDER FEMALE CITIZEN Under 50. Aneta Bone Quintal Joanne Clark To read more about Ron’s and other firefighters’ experiences TRAPPER MALE CITIZEN during the wildfire, check out the 2016 Justin Bourque Darrin Bourque edition of Pathways,availableon CULTURE LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT www.syncrude.ca. Bertha Cyprien Violet Hansen PATHWAYS | 43

AGrowingLandscape

new agreement between Fort McKay “The success of this collaboration with Syncrude and Logistics (FML) and China’s Sinopec is Sinopec allows us to continue to strategically grow in changing the way local Aboriginal companies this area of our business long term, with the intention Ado business. of competing in the global marketplace through providing other companies in the oil sands with FML, owned by the Fort McKay First Nation, and similar products at excellent pricing,” says Mathieu Sinopec recently signed a general purchase Leger, FML general manager. “We are committed to agreement. This will allow FML to access delivering reliable, safe and quality products and manufacturers through Sinopec. It also enables FML services to meet the needs of our clients and to expand their business through the sale and appreciate the opportunities provided by Syncrude, distribution of commodity and specialty products. allowing us to achieve this goal.” “These two organizations were brought together as a The synergy between FML and Sinopec is the first of result of Syncrude’s commitment to promote and its kind and will assist FML in expanding their footprint develop local Aboriginal business,” says Ken Cheng, to markets outside of the Wood Bufalo region, while Syncrude procurement advisor. delivering total supply chain solutions. FML can now position themselves as a one-stop shop for a wide Ken explains that the idea behind the agreement selection of materials needed to run an oil sands was simple – combine FML’s local know-how and operation. And for customers like Syncrude, this will logistics strength with Sinopec’s immense be a tremendous opportunity to reduce overall purchasing power overseas. operational cost while supporting Aboriginal business. PATHWAYS | 44

ENVIRONMENTAL

UPDATE PATHWAYS | 45

Eforts to reduce odours underway Learning from traditional knowledge Returning land to nature

yncrude is working alongside yncrude is taking steps to il sands reclamation takes the community of Fort McKay, provide greater opportunity for years of planning and begins Sthe Government of Alberta and Slocal communities to become Owell before trees and shrubs other industry partners to address more involved in reclamation activities are actually planted. odour issues in the region. and planning for the future. Each year, Syncrude collects A task force has been set up to “Indigenous people of this region seeds from the region then has them ensure consistent and integrated air are very knowledgeable about the land, shipped to the Alberta Reforestation quality monitoring, assess emission wildlife and particularly plant life,” says Seed Bunker in Smoky Lake for sources, improve emergency response Colleen Legdon, manager of Community cleaning and storage. Seedlings are related to air quality, improve odour Relations. “By working together we can then grown for when Syncrude is complaint response protocols, and accomplish so much more and ensure ready to plant them. conduct a more detailed assessment our reclamation eforts are meeting the “At Syncrude, we use a broad of links between some air quality needs of our stakeholders.” range of plant species that are native parameters and human health. Each First Nation and Métis to the Wood Bufalo region – as many “Syncrude understands that association is invited to participate as seven kinds of trees and 15 species odours from our operation can cause on the newly formed Reclamation of shrubs,” says vegetation specialist apprehension and any assistance Engagement Focus Group. Eric Girard. we can provide in easing of these “We specifically asked the First Areclamationplanisdeveloped concerns is important to us,” says Nations and Métis associations to annually using the Guidelines for Anne Simpson, regulatory advisor nominate residents with traditional Reclamation to Forest Vegetation, and task force member. “Brooke knowledge and potentially a youth produced by the Cumulative Bennett of the Environmental to ensure the knowledge and Environmental Management team and I are working on two discussions are passed down to the Association (CEMA), which takes into recommendations which relate to next generation,” says Colleen. account traditional knowledge provided improving communications and Engaging with stakeholders on by local Indigenous people and their enhancing the notification protocols. the environment is one of the six key communities. Once the plan is approved These aspects are key for ensuring commitments of Syncrude’s Aboriginal for the following year, processes and Fort McKay is kept well informed of Relations Strategy. The focus group tasks begin to take shape. situations occurring on our site.” will look to address common areas In 2017, about 200 hectares of of interest, share information with land at Syncrude’s Mildred Lake and all surrounding communities to Aurora sites were planted. Work will Indigenous people of this help build awareness of successful continue next year on reclaiming the reclamation, and ensure traditional former East Mine area located next region are very knowledgeable knowledge is being transferred into to Highway 63. about the land, wildlife and reclamation activities. “ particularly plant life. By The group will be overseen working together we can at Syncrude by Colleen along with accomplish so much more Paul Kearney, manager of Integrated Planning; Audrey Lanoue, reclamation and ensure our reclamation and closure team leader in Research eforts are meeting the and Development; and Byron Fediuk, needs of our stakeholders.” manager of Operations Support Mining. PATHWAYS | 46 ENVIRONMENT

“Incorporating traditional knowledge into our plans provides tremendous value in making the landscape more sustainable and productive.” hile Ken Bell may not wear the brightly coloured arrow sash or speak Michif, he’s proud of his Métis heritage and the W contributions of Aboriginal people working in the oil sands. “Hiring local Aboriginal people is the right thing to do. That’s just always been the culture of the organization,” says Ken, Syncrude’s manager of HOME tailings and lease development. “It’s also a smart thing to do from a workforce perspective as it provides a reliable long-term source of employees. The IS WHERE desire to go back home isn’t there because they are already home.” Fort McMurray is also home for Ken, who moved to the city at the age of eight when his father took a job at Syncrude. Today, part of his job is overseeing Syncrude’s Bird and Environment Team (BET), which focuses on keeping birds and wildlife away from Syncrude’s operation. “This is a seasonal rotational program that provides meaningful, sustainable employment while allowing our employees to practice traditional lifestyles, such as trapping in the winter,” says Ken, also a member of THE Syncrude’s Aboriginal Steering Committee which helps to steward company goals and commitments. “Many of our Aboriginal employees bring a lot of knowledge to the table that’s invaluable to how we run our operation.” While over nine per cent of Syncrude’s workforce is comprised of Aboriginal employees, Ken feels it’s also important for industry to understand the roadblocks that prevent greater participation in the workplace. “It’s important to understand the issues in communities. If you understand the challenges, you can work to address them,” says Ken, who also serves on the board of directors for Indigenous Works, a national group with a mission to improve the inclusion and engagement of Aboriginal people in the Canadian economy. “A good example is the mobile mine simulator Syncrude sponsored that is brought directly to communities in the Wood Bufalo region so people can train to be heavy equipment operators without leaving home. Bringing resources like that directly to students addresses a key training obstacle for many people in remote communities.” Ken also sees continued opportunities for bringing greater input into company activities, such as land reclamation. “Incorporating traditional knowledge into our plans provides tremendous value in making the landscape more sustainable and productive,” he says.

iS ABOVE: Ken Bell, centre, and members of Syncrude’s Bird and Environment Team. PATHWAYS | 47

Celebrating OUR PEOPLE

Syncrude’s greatest resource is our people. Today, over nine per cent of our Retirement workforce is of First Nations, Métis or Inuit descent. Here, we recognize Congratulations our Aboriginal employees who Melvin Callan • David Dewart reached service milestones Delbert P. Hodgson • Joseph Lafond between October 2016 and Mabel Laviolette • Gary Plante October 2017. Congratulations Myles Roy and thank you for making a career with Syncrude!

5YEARS 10 YEARS Russell F. Renaud 20 YEARS 30 YEARS Laurie A. Cox Damien H. Alexander Trevor F. Russell Andrew C. Bacon Henry Castor Rodney P. Curtis Everett Alexander John M. Sheehan Melvin Boostrom Fran Clarke Matthew Flaro Buck Beaton Dustin Sidorof Tracy Coombe-Young Guy Cote Jonathan Franklin Barb M. Buchanan 15 YEARS Margaret Horvath Stephen Graham Maggie Grant Arthur Bunning Tanya Begin Leon Kreutzer Leonard Hansen Jacques Maurice Sarah Callan Cory Bennett Brad Paquette Peter Hansen Daniel Perepeluk Joyce A. Decoine Thomas Champagne Tracy Unger Darrell Humphrey Michael S. Roberts Anthony Drew Leonard Florence 25 YEARS Brad Swanberg Blaine Simpson Glenn J. Drew Sandie Thompson George Frye Steve Benoit Mitchell Tremblay Richard G. Duncan Stuart Tourangeau Lisa Hamm Joey Hamelin Trina Walker Travis Gibson Douglas Webb Decker Harpe Larry A. Roussin Jessie Webster Chad C. Hildebrandt Kerry Heferan 35 YEARS Gale Wood Chad John Lana Hill Judy Coote Kenny Kaskamin Marlene Lane Ennis Gladue Marlene L’Hirondelle Shari MacRae Reshelda Hobbs Linda Littlechilds Jennifer McLeod Lyle Huppie Wayne W. London Robert E. Tourangeau Real N. Loutitt Ruby Wheeler 40 YEARS Derek J. Organ Allen Michalko Stephen Perry Karen Pruden PATHWAYS | 48 ABORIGINAL RELATIONS SCORECARD

SYNCRUDE DIRECT ABORIGINAL REPRESENTATION IN: WORKFORCE Total Aboriginal Employees (#) 2016 Permanent Syncrude Workforce (%) Leaders and Management (%) 2016 Administrative, Professional, 2016 Technical (%) 2016 470 9.8 7.3 6.7 2012 2013 2014 2015 2012 2013 2014 2015 2012 2013 2014 2015 2012 2013 2014 2015 474 467 464 461 9.1 8.8 8.9 9.4 6.0 6.2 5.8 6.1 5.9 6.0 6.2 6.5 In 2016, Aboriginal representation in our workforce reached one of its highest levels ever at 9.8 per cent.

Business Community Environment Spending with Investing in Aboriginal Communities Permanent Land Reclaimed Aboriginal Companies $ millions annually hectares per year $ billions cumulative $millions,cumulativesince2001 hectares cumulative

13.44 3,642 2.68 3,516 3,568 2.51 12.19 3,403 3,316 2.31

2.08 11.19 330 1.87 228 213 199 10.19 174 147 9.19 126 103 81 54

2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016

Total Aboriginal business spending for the year was Syncrude invested over $1.2 million in Aboriginal Syncrude has permanently reclaimed over 3,600 $174 million. While lower than 2015, Syncrude’s initiatives and projects during 2016. hectares to date. Another approximately 1,000 Aboriginal procurement relative to our total Alberta hectares are ready for revegetation. procurement increased by 60 per cent over 2014. The cumulative total for Syncrude business with First Nations- and Métis-owned companies is over $2.6 billion. RECRUITMENT AND RETENTION

Trades and Operators New Hires Attrition Rate Average Years of Service (%) 2016 (% of all hires) 2016 (%) 2016 (# of years) 2016 12.3 19.1 6.2 12.2 2012 2013 2014 2015 2012 2013 2014 2015 2012 2013 2014 2015 2012 2013 2014 2015 11.7 10.6 11.1 11.9 9.8 6.3 11.6 14.7 10.4 8.2 6.0 6.0 10.2 10.7 10.7 12.3 Syncrude has planted over eight million trees and shrubs on reclaimed land.

Environment Wildlife Incident Tracking Education Trees and Shrubs Planted # of Incidents Interested in a Syncrude scholarship? avian1 Since starting operations in 1978, millions, cumulative other animal2 Syncrude has provided ongoing financial support towards the educational endeavours of 8.1 students throughout the province. 7.7 7.4 Our goal is to continue building on 7.2 6.9 this success and ensure even greater accessibility to financial resources in the future. Through major endowments at 128 several Alberta education institutions, students are able to

47 51 39 access scholarships focused on 24 7 9 11 8 8 a variety of fields, including 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 engineering, nursing, education and environmental sciences. For In 2016, approximately 408,000 tree and shrubs 1Includesallbirdandwaterfowlmortalitiesrelated a complete list of available seedlings were planted. to oiling. Incidents are reported to the Alberta scholarships, please visit syncrude.ca Government and Environment and Parks department. An additional 25 mortalities were reported in and click on Community-Syncrude 2016 related to vehicle collision or natural or Award and Scholarships. Many unknown causes. of the awards available are 2Includesallanimalmortalities,regardlessofcause, prioritized for Indigenous and including those in which the cause was natural, due northern Alberta recipients. to predation or unknown. Our Aboriginal Relations Program The goals of Syncrude’s Aboriginal Relations program are to: • Be recognized as a leader in Aboriginal relations and business development, and an employer of choice • Attract and retain qualified candidates from local Aboriginal communities • Maintain support from regional communities of Syncrude’s role in the oil sands Lto R: Doug Webb, SuzanneHutchings, MarkWard, RossNoble • Ensure efective, two-way relationships and consultation • Focus community investment on education and recruitment, community relations, cultural retention and Aboriginal leadership • Ensure regional communities have the capacity to engage with Syncrude regarding consultation, employment, business, and environmental and socio-economic impacts • Ensure environmental programs are well understood by our stakeholders and designed to mitigate impacts to traditional land uses, and incorporate traditional knowledge where possible • Achieve a balance of economic, environmental and social outcomes through engagement and evaluation of impacts Lto R: Dr. Tom Lawley, LanaHill • Achieve regulatory and public confidence Progress towards these goals is stewarded by Syncrude’s Aboriginal Relations Steering Committee, which includes executives, senior managers and advisors who meet quarterly to guide and champion strategies to ensure positive outcomes for Aboriginal stakeholders. An Aboriginal Relations team supports the Committee; they manage the day-to-day interactions and relationships with local communities of interest.

THE ABORIGINAL RELATIONS STEERING COMMITTEE

Mark Ward Dr. Tom Lawley Lto R: Chaim Lum, MichelleVelez, KenBell President and Chief Chief Medical Ofcer Executive Ofcer Kara Flynn Colleen Legdon Vice President, Manager, Community Government & Public Afairs Relations

Greg Fuhr Chaim Lum Vice President, Manager, Procurement Production Mining Peter Read Prashant Mehta Vice President, Manager, Site Services Strategic Planning Ken Bell Ross Noble Manager, Tailings & Lease Advisor, Regulatory Afairs Development Michelle Velez Lana Hill Manager, Advisor, Stakeholder Relations Environmental Afairs Suzanne Hutchings Manager, Human Doug Webb Lto R: PeterRead, KaraFlynn, ColleenLegdon Resources Services Aboriginal Business Liaison Missing: Greg Fuhr, Prashant Mehta OUR ABORIGINAL RELATIONS A B TEAM Our Aboriginal Relations Team supports the Aboriginal Relations Steering Committee. They manage the day-to-day interactions and C D relationships with local communities of interest.

A–ColleenLegdon Manager of Community Relations

B–LanaHill Stakeholder Relations Advisor

C–DougWebb Aboriginal Business Liaison

D–TraceyStephen Stakeholder Relations Advisor

E F E–JoAnneHulan Community Investment Advisor

F–LisaNelson Aboriginal Relations Representative

G – Marty Quintal Aboriginal Recruitment Advisor

G THOUGHTS FROM THE PRESIDENT AND CEO

information across enemy lines. Or the daring feats of people like Francis Pegahmagabow, Canada’s most decorated Aboriginal soldier, and Henry Louis Norwest, one of the most famous snipers of the entire Canadian Corps in World War I.

Closer to home, we learn about Bertha Clark-Jones, who was a drill instructor at bases across the country during the Second World War, and went on to become one of Canada’s most respected activists for Indigenous women’s rights. Also, we hear from members of the local Métis community about the dedication and sacrifices of their own brothers, fathers, cousins and uncles in conflicts around the globe.

Thanks to the commitment of our nation’s armed forces, Canadians today enjoy an unprecedented high quality of life and are free to pursue our dreams and ambitions. We explore some of these stories – from a visit with Fort Chipewyan’s Robert Grandjambe and his dog sled team to a reflection on the outstanding achievements of the late Métis entrepreneur and philanthropist Herb Belcourt. The next generation too are making great strides as we learn about the phenomenal Aboriginal high school graduation rates in Fort McMurray and the support provided to students through the local First Nation, Métis, Inuit (FNMI) school programs.

or most of us, the experiences of battle In publishing Pathways, Syncrude is proud to during wartime is something only read share these great accomplishments with others. F about in school textbooks or seen on And, through our commitment areas of Aboriginal the television from the comfort of home. business and community development, employment, But, for many others, these experiences are far more education, environmental stewardship and corporate real, whether it was firsthand or in accounts told by leadership, I hope we can continue to support and be family members. This edition of Pathways honours part of these journeys for many years to come. the contributions of our nation’s veterans and those Indigenous men and women who for more than a century have stood side-by-side with their fellow Canadians in defence of liberty and democracy across the world.

Take, for example, a little known story about the code talkers during World War II who developed secret Mark Ward messages in the Cree language for relaying tactical President and Chief Executive Ofcer

These organizations and initiatives recognize Syncrude for its expressed commitment and comprehensive programs to support Aboriginal people.

www.syncrude.ca

The Syncrude Project is a joint venture undertaking among Imperial Oil By choosing 10% Post Consumer Recycled fiber for the Cover and Resources Limited, Mocal Energy Limited, Nexen Oil Sands Partnership, 10% Post Consumer fiber for the Text pages instead of virgin paper Sinopec Oil Sands Partnership and Suncor Energy Inc. (with the Suncor for this printed material, the following savings to our natural resources interest held by Canadian Oil Sands Partnership #1 and Suncor Energy were realized: Trees Saved: 9 • Landfill Reduced: 284 Lbs. • Ventures Partnership, both wholly owned affiliates of Suncor Energy Inc.). Water Reduced: 4,246 Gals. • Energy Reduced (000): 4,000 Btu FSC® is not responsible for any calculations on saving resources by choosing this paper. Source of calculation: www.papercalculator.org