The First Nations Selection Committee convened in Calgary at the end of January 2025 for its annual meeting. The Committee reviewed and discussed research proposals aimed at addressing environmental health concerns in First Nations communities, ensuring alignment with program priorities and community needs. The meeting provided an opportunity for meaningful discussions on strengthening capacity in communities, integrating traditional knowledge in research, and supporting impactful projects.
From left to right:
Dr. Alhousseynou Sall, FNECP Science Lead, Safe Food Environments (SFE) section, First Nations and Inuit Health Branch (FNIHB), Indigenous Services Canada (ISC)
Anita Devadason, FNECP Coordinator, SFE section, FNIHB, ISC
Randall Angus, Selection Committee member for the Atlantic region, Regional Climate/Nature/Water Mentor, Prince Edward Island (PEI) Office of the Regional Chief
Peyton Pitawanakwat, Senior Policy Analyst at the Assembly of First Nations (left picture on screen)
Stephanie Allen, Selection Committee member for Ontario region, Environmental Scientist, Consultant Coordinator, Sagamok Anishnawbek First Nation (right picture on screen)
Tyler Osterbeck, Selection Committee member for Manitoba region, Clean Energy Coordinator, Assembly of Manitoba Chiefs
Claudel Babineau Boulé, Selection Committee member for Quebec region, Environmental Coordinator, First Nations of Quebec and Labrador Sustainable Development Institute
Chantelle Cardinal, Selection Committee member for Alberta region, Director of Environment & Infrastructure, Stoney Nakoda –Tsuut’ina Tribal Council (G4)
Kevin McLeod, Selection Committee member for Saskatchewan region, Director, Federation of Sovereign Indigenous Nations
Dr. Lesya Marushka, Senior Science Policy Analyst, SFE section, FNIHB, ISC
Debra Nkusi, A/Manager, SFE section, FNIHB, ISC