updates
CEO’S CORNER
Implementing the Anishinabek Nation Governance Agreement signifies a key moment in the Anishinabek Nation’s journey toward self-governance and sovereignty. Since B’Maakonigan’s establishment in October 2022, we have focused on developing a governance framework that honours our cultural heritage while adapting to the current landscape.
With the recent amendment to the First Nations Approval Process (FNAP), which took effect on December 1, 2023, we are streamlining the path for more First Nations to join this agreement, fostering an inclusive spirit across our communities.
Our efforts have already yielded tangible results. B’Maakonigan aided three First Nations in navigating the FNAP, with two fulfilling the process, with the support of the Governance Department at the Anishinabek Nation and collaborative efforts by the Government of Canada.
This achievement underscores the strength of our partnerships and reflects our commitment to supporting self-governance. Our operational team has also expanded, incorporating skilled staff to create a solid infrastructure that enhances our governance capabilities while developing vital policies and manuals. As part of our commitment to effective governance, we have enlisted the expertise of three consulting firms to strengthen our operational framework. Their efforts have involved completing financial audits, crafting strategic plans, and developing law templates to support the participating First Nations.
We have also engaged in collaborative work through the Self Governance Technical Working Group (SGTWG), which focuses on essential aspects like collaboration, language, and data management. Regular meetings have nurtured communication and support among our members and stakeholders, reinforcing connections vital for our shared success.
Looking ahead, our strategic objectives will centre on expanding participation within the ANGA and creating a thorough plan to serve our communities’ needs better. We are initiating discussions on fiscal harmonization with the Kinoomaadziwin Education Body and planning to update our governance laws and data management strategies.
Additionally, we aim to formalize the First Nations Approval Process through clear templates and guidelines. As we embrace this collective journey, we remain dedicated to nurturing an environment of self-determination, cultural respect, and collaborative growth for Anishinabek Nations, ensuring a powerful legacy for future generations.
IN MEMORIaM
It is with profound sadness that the B’Maakonigan family shares the sudden passing (January 10, 2024) of Guylaine Rheault-baa. Guylaine-baa was hired as the Executive Assistant to B’Maakonigan CEO Leslie McGregor in 2023. She shared her kind and generous spirit with co-workers, and staff at the Anishinabek Nation’s Restoration of Jurisdiction Department (ROJ), working tirelessly and professionally in her position. Guylaine-baa was from the Timmins area and a citizen of the Attawapiskat First Nation. She had been living in North Bay with her beloved dog Cooper. Services for Guylaine-baa were held at the Hillside Funeral Home, in North Bay, Saturday, January 20, 2024. Her obituary can be found here.
Implementing the Anishinabek Nation Governance Agreement signifies a key moment in the Anishinabek Nation’s journey toward self-governance and sovereignty.
Since B’Maakonigan’s establishment in October 2022, we have focused on developing a governance framework that honours our cultural heritage while adapting to the current landscape.
With the recent amendment to the First Nations Approval Process (FNAP), which took effect on December 1, 2023, we are streamlining the path for more First Nations to join this agreement, fostering an inclusive spirit across our communities.
Our efforts have already yielded tangible results. B’Maakonigan aided three First Nations in navigating the FNAP, with two fulfilling the process, with the support of the Governance Department at the Anishinabek Nation and collaborative efforts by the Government of Canada.
This achievement underscores the strength of our partnerships and reflects our commitment to supporting self-governance. Our operational team has also expanded, incorporating skilled staff to create a solid infrastructure that enhances our governance capabilities while developing vital policies and manuals. As part of our commitment to effective governance, we have enlisted the expertise of three consulting firms to strengthen our operational framework. Their efforts have involved completing financial audits, crafting strategic plans, and developing law templates to support the participating First Nations.
We have also engaged in collaborative work through the Self Governance Technical Working Group (SGTWG), which focuses on essential aspects like collaboration, language, and data management. Regular meetings have nurtured communication and support among our members and stakeholders, reinforcing connections vital for our shared success.
Looking ahead, our strategic objectives will centre on expanding participation within the ANGA and creating a thorough plan to serve our communities’ needs better. We are initiating discussions on fiscal harmonization with the Kinoomaadziwin Education Body and planning to update our governance laws and data management strategies.
Additionally, we aim to formalize the First Nations Approval Process through clear templates and guidelines. As we embrace this collective journey, we remain dedicated to nurturing an environment of self-determination, cultural respect, and collaborative growth for Anishinabek Nations, ensuring a powerful legacy for future generations.