Executive
Meko Nicholas
Executive Director
Meko Nicholas is the Executive Director of the First Nations Lands Management Resource Centre and is Welastekokewin (Maliseet) from the Neqotkuk (Tobique) First Nation in New Brunswick. He has been working to support the development, finalization and fulfillment of the Framework Agreement on First Nation Land Management for the past 23 years.
Angie Pitre
Executive Assistant to the Executive Director
Angie Pitre, a member of the Elsipogtog First Nation, NB, joins us from the Department of Indigenous Services Canada (ISC). During her 11 year career as a public servant, she volunteered in varying capacities (Co-Spokesperson, Secretary and project lead) on the Aboriginal Employees’ Network, a committee which focuses on Indigenous recruitment, retention, advancement and the cultural competencies within the regional ISC office.
In the fall of 2018, Angie joined our team as an Executive Assistant. She provides administrative support to the Resource Centre’s Executive Director, Meko Nicholas.
Finance, Information Technology & Administration
Sandra Gfellner
Director, Finance, Information Technology & Administration
Sandra was born and raised in British Columbia and is one of four siblings to Irish Immigrants. She spent 30 years working in the accounting field before starting work with the First Nations Land Management Resource Centre. Since February 2006, Sandra has been Director of Finance, reporting to the Executive Director. Sandra oversees and administers all financial functions of the Lands Advisory Board and Resource Centre.
Charmaine Matteau
Manager, Human Resources
Charmaine’s family is from the Qalipu Mi’kmaq First Nation in Newfoundland and Labrador. The second youngest of 16 children, she was born and raised on the west coast of the province.
Before joining the RC in 2013, she spent several years working for the provincial government in Canada’s far north followed by nearly 10 years the federal public service in Ottawa in areas related to HR, finance, and administration. Charmaine is a currently a member of the Nova Scotia branch of Chartered Human Resources Professionals.
A military spouse, in her spare time Charmaine also loves to cook, spend time with her family, friends and animals and plan her next running adventure.
Robina Bear
Executive Assistant to RC Chair
Robina Bear has worked for the Resource Centre since 2001 as Executive Assistant to Chief Austin Bear the RC Chair. Robina completed her studies in Business Administration at SIAST campus in Prince Albert Saskatchewan in 1995. She is originally from Powell River, BC but now has a home on Muskoday First Nation in Saskatchewan with her husband and their rescue animals. Robina is a photographer specializing in people and wedding photography.
Virginia Game
Administrative Support to the Lands Advisory Board
Virginia was born and lived in Victoria, BC until 1999 when she moved to Winnipeg, Canmore and finally settled in Kelowna the summer of 2010. Virginia worked in the policing and legal worlds until she began working for Westbank First Nation in January 2011 in the finance department. In June 2011 she became Chief Robert Louie’s Executive Assistant in WFN’s corporate department and started with the Resource Centre as Chairman Robert Louie’s Executive Assistant in October 2016. Virginia has two sons and two dogs that take up most of her time, if she’s not at work she is out walking her dogs.
Jelisa Genge
Human Resources Administrator
Born and raised in Newfoundland and Labrador on the northwest tip of the Island, Jelisa grew up in a little fishing village and later left for Alberta where she spent 16 years. She has spent several years at the provincial public service level in various HR capacities such a recruitment, recognition, training and more. Jelisa is currently a member of Newfoundland Branch of Chartered Human Resources Professionals
Jelisa recently moved back to the island where she and her husband now reside with their two children spending any spare time they get exploring the rugged terrain, and catching up on lost time with their extended family and friends around a table filled with food
Martin de Kryger
IT Support Services
Martin de Kryger, born and raised in Ottawa Ontario, graduated from Computer Systems Technology at Algonquin College. Shortly after completing college, he joined the Ottawa Senators Hockey Club as an IT Support Technician, where he worked for over four years.
In August 2017 he accepted a position as the IT Support Services Officer with the Resource Centre.
Martin, his wife and their two energetic boys live in eastern Ontario. Martin loves spending time with his kids, playing guitar, relaxing at the cottage, gardening, cooking, and is a sports nut.
Dan Bear
Administrative Assistant
Dan Bear joined the team in 2008 and has worked with First Nation communities in British Columbia, Saskatchewan and Manitoba as a Field Technician before moving into an administrative role in 2014.
Dan received his professional training at the Justice Institute of British Columbia and earned an Associate Certificate while studying Dispute Resolution Mediation and Negotiation.
He is a proud member of the Muskoday First Nation in Saskatchewan where he was raised and lives with his wife Sarah and their two cats and dog. Together they have a son and are expecting a baby boy in early May.
Dan’s spare time is often spent writing and creating music, as he has been involved in Canada’s independent music industry for many years. Several songs featuring Dan have been used in film and television projects. He has shared the studio and stage with Canadian Indigenous and Juno award winners while releasing several independent albums.
Rob Pinkerton
Survey Advisor
Rob Pinkerton is a Land Surveyor and Engineer who has spent the last 20 years working on land surveys throughout the western provinces. He attended the University of Calgary and is licensed to survey in Alberta, British Columbia, Saskatchewan and on Canada Lands.
Born in North Vancouver he has lived in Moncton, Edmonton and now calls Calgary home. He has served as a Councillor for the Alberta Land Surveyors’ Association (ALSA) and as President of the Association of Canada Lands Surveyors (ACLS).
Curtis Clark
IT Support Services
Born and raised in the Vancouver. Curtis worked as an auto mechanic but found his calling working in IT. He enjoys golfing, road trips and flying his drone. He wants to learn guitar in 2024.
Lise Steele
Travel & Logistics Coordinator
Lise Steele is a proud member of the We Wai Kai Nation, located on both Vancouver and Quadra Islands’. Lise has a certificate in Aboriginal Language Revitalization through the University of Victoria, a certificate in Professional Lands Management from the University of Saskatchewan and is a certified tax administrator with a certificate from Thompson River University.
Lise joined the Resource Centre in 2016 and is the Travel & Logistics coordinator.
Lise is married with one grown daughter, and along with their wolf-dog Shadow, and husky Daisy, they enjoy life on the Quinsam Reserve.
Luke Forbes
Legal Survey Analyst
Luke has been in the survey industry for nearly 30 years. He graduated from BC Institute of Technology with a Diploma in Geomatics Technology. He has spent his career surveying in the prairies working in the industry. He has worked with the federal and Saskatchewan land tenure administrators. He has also spend many years working with private survey firms in Saskatchewan.
Luke was born in Regina and still lives there with his 3 children. He enjoys fishing, sports, and camping.
Sheila Wight-Parr
Financial Services Officer
Sheila was born and raised in Western Newfoundland and Labrador.
She has worked for almost 25 years in the construction Industry. She started as an administrative assistant /accounting clerk and found her niche in the accounting field. She was ultimately promoted to an accounts manager whereby she managed and processed all payables and receivables along with many other duties.
In her spare time, Sheila enjoys spending time with her family and friends, photographing landscapes and wildlife, spending time on the ocean in the summer, and snowmobiling in the winter.
Operations
Steven Bonspille
Director Developmental & Operational Support
Shékon sewakwékon (Greeting to everyone),
Sosé Onahsakenrat iontiàts ne Kanien’kehà tànon Kanesatake Kanien’kehà:ka kanakerahsera nia’tewake:né. Joseph swan is his Kanien’kehà:ka (Mohawk) name and is from the Kanien’kehà:ka territory of Kanesatake.
Steven is a proud member of the Bear clan as are his eight brothers and sisters. He is also the proud dad of three boys.
Being born, raised and living most of his adult life in Kanesatake has given him the insight on the many good things that can happen when a community works together to find solutions. How a community can change its present for a better tomorrow. He has dedicated his career to helping our indigenous communities and people improve their current situations for a brighter future for them, their communities and future generations.
His career has taken him on the path of culture and language (Director of the Kanesatake Cultural Centre), politics (Chief and Grand Chief of Kanesatake), Housing (Regional Manager of Aboriginal Housing – Quebec bureau of Canada Mortgage Housing Corporation), employment and capacity development (First Nations Human Resource Development Commission of Quebec) to his present position of Managing Director of Operations for the FNLMRC.
When he is not working he enjoys spending time with his kids, playing lacrosse and golf, listening to music, being with family and friends and working on his 69 Road Runner.
First Nation Support Services – BC
Patti Wight
Manager First Nation Support Services BC
Patti Wight is from the Squamish Nation and currently resides in the heart of Lheidli T’enneh traditional territory (Prince George, BC) where she has been working with the Resource Centre since 2012. Patti holds a Bachelor of Science in Geography with an environmental science focus from the University of Northern BC and also has a certificate in Indigenous Peoples Resource Management from the University of Saskatchewan. Prior to joining the Resource Centre, Patti was the Lheidli T’enneh Director of Lands & Natural Resources. Patti enjoys spending her free time in nature exploring and camping. She loves to travel and is always trying out new ways to prepare foods, teas and medicines.
Erica Louie
Land Code Governance Advisor BC
Jasmine Pouce Coupe
Land Code Governance Advisor BC
Jasmine Pouce Coupe is a proud member of the Doig River First Nation, hailing from the rich cultural landscape near Fort St. John, British Columbia. Her roots run deep within the Treaty 8 territory. Currently, she resides on her small acreage near Kamloops on the unceded lands of the Tk’emlúps te Secwe̓pemc.
With her experience in Indigenous governance and community development, Jasmine has proven herself as a dedicated advocate for her people and for First Nations across Canada. Her most recent role as Program Coordinator at the Tulo Centre of Indigenous Economics, within the First Nation Tax Commission, exemplifies her commitment to advancing economic sovereignty and self-governance among Indigenous communities. Prior to her work at the Tulo Centre, Jasmine served as the Land Code Coordinator for Doig River First Nation, where she played a pivotal role in their land code development.
In addition to her professional endeavors, Jasmine is an active member of the Steering Committee for the Fish and Wildlife Compensation Program, where she continues to champion conservation efforts and promote Indigenous stewardship of natural resources. She is also a member of the Land Governance Committee for Doig River First Nation.
Beyond her professional pursuits, Jasmine enjoys creating distinctive hand-beaded jewelry and especially loves being immersed in the wonders of nature. Whether navigating challenging landscapes on foot, gliding along watercourses in a kayak, or immersing herself in the exhilaration of jet boating, fishing, and hunting, Jasmine’s fervor for outdoor exploration is unmistakable.
With her unique blend of experience in land code development, community engagement, and policy advocacy, combined with her love for culture, nature and the outdoors, Jasmine Pouce Coupe is a force to be reckoned with in the realm of Indigenous governance and self-determination and environmental stewardship.
Jackie Brown
Land Code Governance Advisor BC
Jackie Brown is a member of the community of Kispiox(Anspayaxw), 1 of 6 communities within the Gitxsan First Nation. His Gitxsan name is Guiyee’is. He grew up in Terrace, BC which is an hour and half away from Kispiox. After obtaining his Forest Technology Diploma at Northwest Community College (now Coast Mountain College), he worked in the forest consultant world for 8 years before moving his family to Prince George, BC.
He was the Forestry Coordinator at Lheidli T’enneh Nation for 7 years before joining the BC Government as a Senior Advisor, First Nation Relations within the BC Ministry of Forests, Lands, Natural Resource Operations and Rural Development for 3 years.
His wife, Cheryl, is from the Nisga’a Nation community of Gitlakdamiiks(New Aiyansh). They have 2 kids and 2 dogs. He enjoys coaching and playing basketball and soccer from time to time. They try to make it back home as often as they can, especially when cultural duties call them home.
Heather McIntyre
Land Code Governance Advisor BC
Heather McIntyre is of Mohawk descent and is originally from Peterborough, Ontario, but grew up in Kelowna, BC. Heather holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in anthropology with a focus on archaeology and a minor in history from the University of British Columbia, Okanagan. She has worked in the real estate appraisal industry for the past two decades first as a research analyst and most recently as an Appraisal Institute of Canada candidate member in the commercial appraisal field. She has worked on many appraisal assignments related to land leases for a variety of First Nations throughout the Interior and has worked on historical and archival research for several Specific Claims projects. Heather is excited to continue working with First Nation communities utilizing her experience and education to assist in the development and implementation of their own Land Codes. Heather enjoys spending time with her family and her animals and loves to travel. She is also a musician and artist and enjoys live theatre, music, art and literature.
Shawn Speirs
Land Code Governance Advisor BC
Originally from Pointe-Claire Montreal, Shawn Speirs grew up in Westbank, BC. He attended UBC for his undergraduate degree and subsequently received his Law degree from Thompson Rivers University.
His legal practice initially focussed on estate and trust planning before he transitioned into law and policy development. Shawn accepted a position with the Resource Centre in 2017 as part of the BC support services team and is excited to continue working with communities both in the development and implementation of their land codes.
First Nation Support Services – BC, Fraser Valley
Denise Unger
Manager First Nation Support Services Fraser Valley
Ey Swayel (Good Day)
Denise Unger is a proud member of Chi’yaqtel (Tzeachten) First Nation in Chilliwack, BC, which is also where she resides. The Chi’yaqtel people originate from the Ts’elxwéyeqw Tribe and they are politically affiliated with Stó:ló Nation.
Denise began working with the First Nation Land Management Resource Centre in 2009 as a field technician on Vancouver Island and is now the Manager of Support Services – Fraser Valley Region. She has a wonderful team of Land Code Advisors who also provide land management support services to the signatory First Nations in that region.
Before establishing her 20+ year career working with the Stó:ló and other Indigenous peoples in the Fraser Valley and throughout BC, Denise’s background includes commerce and banking. In 2000, Denise joined Stó:ló Development Corporation and Stó:ló Community Futures, which further lead to an opportunity to manage the Ts’elxwéyeqw Tribe in 2007. She has been actively involved with various initiatives Chi’yaqtel has pursued over the years, including the development and implementation of their Land Code. She was passionate about assisting other First Nations in re-gaining jurisdiction over their reserve lands and resources and establishing strong systems of land governance, which lead her to joining the First Nation Land Management Resource Centre.
Denise and her husband Mark have four children, two dogs and they have been blessed with five wonderful grandchildren (the sixth is on the way). Outside of work, Denise enjoys spending time with her family, gardening, crafting, and riding her Harley Davidson on sunny days.
“S’ólh Téméxw te ikw’elo. Xolhmet te mekw’stam it kwelat”
(This is Our land we have to take care of everything that belongs to us)
Dr. Wenona Hall
Tabitha Donkers
Land Code Governance Advisor Fraser Valley
Tabitha grew up in the Fraser Valley of BC in Coast Salish territory and is now living on Central Vancouver Island. She completed her undergraduate degree in business at UBC and her master’s in public policy from SFU. Prior to joining the RC Tabitha worked in the private sector, non-profit, and First Nation government. In her role with the RC, Tabitha focuses on supporting First Nation communities in the Fraser Valley in implementing their Land Codes. In her free time, Tabitha enjoys volunteering at local community events, gardening, Mountain biking, and almost everything else outdoors.
Sally Hope
Land Code Governance Advisor Fraser Valley
Sally Hope, also known by her traditional name of Quetitse is a member of Sqewqel (Seabird Island)which is part of the Tiyt Tribe, located in the eastern Fraser Valley of British Columbia where she resides with her family. She is proud to be of Stó:lō and Nlaka’pamux descent.
She has been an advocate for the salmon, salmon habitat, lands, and resources over the past 15 years. Her connection to the land, water, and air has always been deeply engrained in her and affirmed through the guiding principles that have been passed down through generations. Her roles with neighboring nations as well as her own nation of Sqewqel, have focused on natural resources, environmental and land management. She is the co-chair of the Lower Fraser Fisheries Alliance which is an Indigenous technical organization that works to advance the collective fisheries interests of the 24 signatory Lower Fraser First Nations.
In 2023, Sally was elected to Seabird Island Council and holds portfolios in Inter-Government Affairs which is committed to protecting and promoting Aboriginal Rights & Title. She also holds the portfolio for the Sqewqel Development Corporation and is the chair of the board of directors. She is also co-chair for Administration, which includes the Sq’ep Cultural committee, and for Education which includes K-12, Post Secondary, Seabird Island College, and Employment Services.
Sally was part of the first cohort of TULO’s Applied Lands program at Thompson Rivers University in 2018-19. This took her passion for land protection to a whole new level. It not only strengthened capacity, but also opened up a stronger network of professionals. She not only enjoys the technical role of lands management but also has a passion for empowering and supporting nations.
Sally enjoys summer activities, including camping, travelling, and cheering on her favorite soccer clubs and war canoe racing clubs. During the winter months, you can hear her cheering on her Vancouver Canucks!
First Nation Support Services – Prairies
Eugene Peterson
Manager First Nation Support Services Prairies
Eugene Peterson is a member of Long Plain in Treaty 1 south central Manitoba. While growing up in Vancouver Eugene often visited friends and family in Manitoba each summer.
Eugene completed his bachelors degree in Economics and Business at Simon Fraser University and Bachelor of Law at the University of British Columbia. Eugene practiced law in Winnipeg, eventually focusing on Land Claims and Self-government. Eugene began working with the Resource Centre in 2017 and manages support for First Nations throughout Alberta, Saskatchewan and Manitoba.
Eugene is a father of four and often travels throughout western Canada and central USA for business and pleasure.
Leah Bitternose
Land Code Governance Advisor Prairies
Tānsi, Kitatamiskātināwāw! Leah Bitternose Nitisiyihkāson. Nēhiyawskwēw ohci George Gordon ēkwa Treaty 4 Niwīcihowān. Leah M. Bitternose is Cree from the George Gordon First Nation in Treaty 4 Territory. She has a Juris Doctor and Master of Laws from the University of Saskatchewan and is dedicated to the protection of Indigenous and Treaty Rights. She is honoured to work for the FNLMRC assisting First Nation’s in the Prairie Region and North West Territories to take back control of their lands and resources.
Joey Fulton
Land Code Governance Advisor Prairies
Joey Leigh Fulton started with the Resource Centre Prairie Region in early 2019. Her home base is located in Treaty 6 Territory in Spruce Grove, Alberta.
She has been working in the Lands field since 2009 and has completed the Level Two: Technical Training in the Professional Lands Management Certification Program in 2009.
Joey is a proud member of Chippewas of Nawash First Nation and volunteers with the Canadian Native Friendship Centre in Edmonton and volunteers as a knowledge keeper and Auntie with Indigenous Birth of Alberta.
Her pride is her family and her greatest blessings are her 2 kids.
Dean Bear
Land Code Governance Advisor Prairies
Dean Bear is a member of the Muskoday First Nation in central Saskatchewan and comes to the Resource Center after 17 years working as the Director of the Muskoday lands department. During that time, he helped develop laws and procedures under the Land Code that have helped Muskoday First Nation become a trailblazer for other operational First Nation communities to follow. He assisted the First Nation in negotiating a Treaty Land Entitlement settlement and a land exchange agreement with the neighboring rural municipality – both firsts for a Land Code community in Canada. Dean is a major proponent of the Framework Agreement and has a desire to see more First nations strive toward sectoral self-government. He has sat on numerous boards at the First Nation level, is a previous chairman of the Saskatchewan Aboriginal Land Technicians (SALT) and former board member of the National Aboriginal Land Manager’s Association (NALMA).
His background includes farming with a diploma in Agriculture from the University of Saskatchewan. He has also received certification from the Indigenous Peoples Resource Management program at the U of S and the First Nation Tax Administration program at Thompson Rivers University in Kamloops, BC.
Dean and his wife Kim reside on the family farm at Muskoday with their three cats. In his off time, he enjoys golf and is a member of the Birch Hills Golf Club board, watching football and hockey and cooking different delicacies on his wood and charcoal smokers.
First Nation Support Services – East
Crystal Restoule
Manager First Nation Support Services East
Crystal Restoule is a proud member of Dokis First Nation, located on the boundaries that separate the Districts of Parry Sound, Sudbury and Nipissing, Ontario. Crystal and her spouse are proud parents of a beautiful boy and enjoy spending much of their free time outdoors, hunting, fishing, and participating in various sporting activities.
While attending Laurentian University, Crystal worked with the Department of Indigenous and Northern Affairs Canada as a summer student and continued her work there after graduation. Crystal accepted a position with the First Nations Land Management Resource Centre in 2014 as Support Services Technician for the Eastern Region. In April 2018, Crystal accepted the position as Manager of Support Services for Ontario, Québec and the Atlantic Regions. She looks forward to continuing her work with First Nations in pursuing land governance under the Framework Agreement.
Cassandra Cadeau
Land Code Governance Advisor East
Cass is a proud member of Alderville First Nation and grew up in southern Ontario. Cass began working for Shawanaga First Nation in 2011, assisting with the implementation of the consultation and accommodation protocol, coordinating logistics for major projects and providing admin support for the Shawanaga Youth Council. Through the following years, Cass built upon her education in Negotiation, Aboriginal Law, Consultation and Accommodation, Project Management, Aboriginal Professional Administration and Indigenous Peoples Resource Management.
Cass led Shawanaga First Nation and the community through the development of a Land Code in 2013 and pioneered an electronic voting ratification process. With the successful vote for Shawanaga’s Land Code, Cass accepted a Technician position with the First Nations Land Management Resource Centre in 2015, where she continues her work with pride in developing and implementing Land Codes in other First Nations across Turtle Island. She has supported many First Nations through Land Code votes, including Long Lake 58, Wasauksing, Temagami, Chippewas of Kettle and Stony Point, Chippewas of Rama, Algonquins of Pikwakanagan, Beausoleil, Moose Deer Point, and Hiawatha.
Cass enjoys year-round cottage country life with her fiancé Adam, four children and house full of cats and dogs in the small town of Parry Sound, in the traditional territory of Shawanaga First Nation. In her free time, Cass enjoys cruising around Georgian Bay, beading, sewing and taking on home reno and pinterest building projects.
Danielle Alain
Land Code Governance Advisor East
Danielle Alain is a proud member of the Wolastoqiyik (People of the Beautiful River) from Woodstock First Nation, New Brunswick.
Danielle completed her Bachelor of Arts at St. Thomas University, graduating with a double major in Criminology and Native Studies.
Upon graduation, Danielle accepted a position with, at the time, Aboriginal Affairs and Norther Development Canada and spent two years as a Band Governance and Estates Officer and eight years as a Lands Officer, where she thoroughly enjoyed working with many of the First Nation communities in the Atlantic. Most recently, Danielle accepted a position with the First Nation Land Management Resource Centre and currently works as a Support Technician for the Eastern Team!
Danielle has two beautiful children and they love to hang out with friends and family, travel, participate in community activities and whatever daily adventures come their way!
Kiley Shebageget
Land Code Governance Advisor East
Kiley joined the FNLMRC in June 2022 as a Land Code Governance Advisor with the East Team. Previously, she worked for Rainy River First Nations for 19 years, starting as a Project Officer in their grassroots environmental program, to eventually heading their Lands & Natural Resources Department as the Lands Manager for over 10 years. While at Rainy River, she oversaw the Land Code development process, bringing them to a successful vote in 2020. She also spearheaded the development of the Rainy River First Nations Land Use Plan, which went on to win the 2018 CIP Award of Planning Excellence in the Aboriginal Community Planning and Development category.
Kiley is a certified Aboriginal Lands Manager and has completed the Indigenous Peoples Resource Management certificate program at the University of Saskatchewan. She also attended Sault College in Sault Ste. Marie, ON, earing double diplomas in Forestry and Integrated Natural Resource Management.
Kiley grew up and still resides in Nestor Falls, ON in the heart of Treaty #3 territory in northwestern Ontario. Her husband and daughter are proud members of the Ojibways of Onigaming First Nation, and her family partakes in events and celebrations in their community. Kiley’s great-grandfather built tourist camps in the Nestor Falls area beginning in the 1920’s, and her family still operates some of the camps today. As such, fishing, hunting and being outdoors on the land with her family are among Kiley’s favourite activities.
Kelly Dickinson
Land Code Governance Advisor East
Kelly Dickinson is a born and raised member of Alderville First Nation, in southern Ontario. Kelly has an Advanced Diploma in Business Administration – Marketing from Fleming College, as well as a Bachelor of Business Administration from Trent University. Kelly began her career in lands working for Hiawatha First Nation in 2018 as a Lands Clerk, where one of her primary roles was to lead the community through the development of a Land Code. The community successfully ratified their Land Code in 2021. Kelly and her family enjoy spending time together, visiting with family and friends, going on family trips, and trying new restaurants. In her spare time, she enjoys cooking, reading and philately.
Public Relations
John Makson
Senior Public Relations Advisor
John is a proud member of the Tyendinaga Mohawk Territory, from the Wolf Clan, of the Kahienkeha’ka people from South Eastern Ontario. After attending Queen’s university John moved to British Columbia to work with the Federal Treaty Negotiation office in 1998. John moved on to Statistics Canada to work on the 2001 Aboriginal Census and Aboriginal People’s Survey, and then to the start-up First Nations Statistical Institute.
John accepted a full-time position with the First Nations Land Management Resource Centre in 2007. John has worked as a field technician in BC and was the Manager for the Western team and was happy to be a part of many successful votes throughout British Columbia. In 2017 John accepted the position of Manager of Communications to help build a new communications team and approach for the Lands Advisory Board and Resource Centre.
John father of three and enjoys life with his wife Angela and three dogs on Vancouver Island, in the territory of the Malahat First Nation. He and his family love island life, from the island grown foods, great coffee and local artisans. John is an artist and spends much of his free time on a mountain bike chasing son down the mountains.
Communications
Suzanne Winch
Manager, Communications
Suzanne Winch began her journey with the Framework Agreement in the early 1990s as administrative support for its legislative development. She began working for the Lands Advisory Board (LAB) in 1996 and later for the First Nations Lands Management Resource Centre (RC) after its incorporation in 2001.
During her years with the organization(s), she has worked in various advisor and/or management roles in Administration, Environmental Policy and Implementation, Strategic Planning and Policy, and in her current position as Manager of Communications. Suzanne holds a B.A. in Environmental Studies and a Professional Certificate in Public Relations.
Suzanne and her husband, Kevin, have three active boys and live in Epekwitk (Prince Edward Island), in Mi’kma’ki, the traditional territory of the Mi’kmaq. She and her family enjoy all things outdoors. Suzanne has a lifetime of experience with animals (both domestic and wild) and expanded on that interest to attain certification in Animal Sciences from Colorado State University. Her passions include making memories with her family, caring for her small farm menagerie, photography, and gardening.
Sean Cunningham
Graphic Designer
Sean graduated with honours from the Digital Design and Development program at the BC Institute of Technology where he learned graphic design, motion graphics and web and app development.
Sean has experience working as a brand designer for various companies and non-profit organizations in BC. After working with the Resource Centre for nearly a year as an independent contractor, Sean joined the team as a full-time graphic designer in November 2021.
Sean resides in the lower-mainland British Columbia and is an avid movie and concert-goer. Sean enjoys spending his free time honing his graphic skills, practising other artistic mediums and technologies as well as enjoying walks in the rainy weather with his girlfriend Kalee and their pup.
Land Code Governance
Andrew Beynon
Director, Land Code Governance
Andrew Beynon has over thirty-five years experience working on First Nation lands and self-government. Andrew has worked on land development, environmental protection, environmental assessments, additions to reserve and treaty land entitlement, economic development, specific claims, federal-provincial agreements, optional self-government legislation, taxation, infrastructure projects, reform of federal funding agreements, work with First Nations drafting laws and many other areas.
Andrew was Canada’s lead lawyer on the Nisga’a treaty and has considerable experience with negotiations as well as drafting and has appeared on numerous occasions before Parliamentary Committees. Andrew is one of the authors of “Modern First Nations Legislation Annotated”, a legal publication which includes a chapter dealing with the Framework Agreement and the federal legislation which ratifies the Framework Agreement.
Andrew is married with two “kids” in post secondary studies. Andrew has no time for his wide range of hobbies and interests which range from eternal home renovations to collecting vintage JBL studio monitors originally used by Led Zeppelin and the Rolling Stones, to studying the history of the Nixon administration, as well as to international soccer and playing golf rarely, but always badly.
Sharon Jack
Administrative Assistant
Sharon Jack is a member of the Osoyoos Indian Band in the Syilx territory located in the southern interior of British Columbia. She received her education from Thompson Rivers University attaining a Diploma in Business Administration (Marketing). She worked for the Okanagan Indian Band for a number of years in the Social Development department.
She then took time off from work to raise her children until they were both full-time students in elementary. Sharon started working with the Lands Advisory Board in April 2007; working as Executive Assistant to the LAB Chairman. In April 2017, she then moved over to her current position with the Planning & Readiness team where she is the Administrative Assistant among her other duties.
Sharon is married to Ernest M. Jack (OJ), they have two adult children; Kylie who is in her final year at Simon Fraser University, majoring in Criminology and Austin is in his first year at UBCO. The family resides on the Westbank First Nation in the Syilx Territory. Sharon’s interests include golf, volunteering and she has found that she has a knack for Traditional crafting, after taking a class at the En’owkin Centre (Penticton) in January 2017 – she enjoys beading, basket weaving, working with leather and sewing.
Hugh Benevides
Counsel, Land Code Governance
Hugh Benevides has worked in a variety of public interest law contexts. He was called to the Bar of Ontario in 1996, and to the Bar of Nova Scotia in 2008. As a legislative assistant in the House of Commons, he worked for a senior Member of Parliament and former cabinet minister who was an early champion of sustainable development and strong environmental laws. He was legal counsel at the Canadian Environmental Law Association and at East Coast Environmental Law. As Canadian legal officer at the Secretariat of the North American Commission on Environmental Cooperation, he examined allegations of failures by Canada to enforce its environmental laws. During the eight years prior to joining the Resource Centre, Hugh gave strategic, legislative, government relations and other support to leading civil society organizations.
Born and raised in Tkaronto (Toronto), Hugh has guided whitewater canoe trips in Ontario, Quebec, the Northwest Territories, and Nunavut. He and his partner now live, work, and paddle canoes and kayaks in the traditional territories of the Lekwungen-speaking Peoples, the Songhees and Esquimalt Nations (in Victoria, BC). His daughter is a student and athlete in the Maritimes.
First Nation Land Governance Registry
Angie Derrickson
Registrar, FNLGR
Angie Derrickson is a proud member of Westbank First Nation, located in the Syilx Okanagan territory in southern British Columbia.
After graduating in 1992, she started her career at Westbank First Nation working in Administration, Intergovernmental Affairs and then Senior Lands Officer from 2000 to 2010. In 2013, Angie joined the First Nations Land Management Resource Centre and supports strategic approaches for training, mentorship, and professional development for Land Governance across Canada.
Driven by her dedication to her community, Angie has actively participated in various governance initiatives and the implementation of the WFN Self‐Government Agreement. In 2022, she was elected to WFN Council and contributes to strategic priorities under WFN’s unique land base, cultural values, and governance structure.
Angie has also achieved her Professional Lands Management Certification at the University of Saskatchewan, Associate Certificate in Training and Facilitation from the Justice Institute of British Columbia and a Professional Certificate in Management & Leadership from Royal Roads University.
Kara Zemel
SR. Registration Officer – East, FNLGR
Kara joins us from Kahnawake Mohawk Territory, just outside of Montreal, where she previously worked within the Land Management team at Mohawk Council of Kahnawake (MCK) and as General Manager of Records Management. While she was GM of Records, she assisted MCK’s Database Developer and the Lands Unit to create their own internal Mohawks of Kahnawake Land Registry Database to have up to date land transfer information for the community, which was implemented and is in continued use since 2016.
She holds a Bachelor of Arts in Canadian Studies from McGill University, a Certificate in Records Management Fundamentals from University of Toronto, a Business Administration Certificate through a special program with MCK and Concordia University’s John Molson School of Business, and most recently completed the Information Privacy Certificate from York University.
Outside of professional life, Kara loves to travel, trying different foods, and attending concerts; and is happy to have her partner, daughter, stepdaughter, and niece tag along on these adventures.
She spends a lot of time reading, attempting to finish random craft projects, going on epically long walks, and spending time with family and friends.
Brittany Hall
SR. Registration Officer – West, FNLGR
Brittany Hall is a member of Sq’ewqeyl (Skowkale) First Nation, located in Chilliwack, BC. In the Halq’emeylem language, Sq’ewqeyl means “Going around a turn”. Brittany previously worked for the Skowkale, Aitchelitz and Yakweakwioose (SAY) Lands Office in Chilliwack for a number of years. SAY is the first joint management agreement group of First Nations in Canada.
Chris Cardamone
HR Generalist, FNLGR
Chris was born and raised in Niagara Falls, Ontario, where he completed his undergraduate degree in Labor Studies at Brock University and earned a postgraduate diploma in Human Resource Management from Niagara College. Over the past several years, he has gained extensive experience in various HR roles, working in both provincially and federally regulated workplaces across the Yukon Territory and British Columbia.
Outside of his professional life, Chris is dedicated to maintaining an active and mindful lifestyle. He enjoys activities like going to the gym, yoga, walking outdoors, playing golf, and just recently picked up skiing as a winter hobby. Chris is also a passionate sports enthusiast and foodie and enjoys going to different cafes and restaurants with his partner.
Land Code Governance Team
Jennifer Predie
Manager, Land Code Governance
Jennifer Predie is a member of Six Nations, Onondaga. She is a professionally certified First Nations Land Manager with an applied degree in Environmental Management and diplomas in Terrain and Water Resources. In 2002, Jennifer received a four-year Ministerial appointment as a member of NACOSAR (National Aboriginal Council on Species at Risk) and was subsequently elected as one of the committee’s co-chairs.
Jennifer began her professional career in 2000 as an Environmental Scientist with EBA Engineering Consultants in Edmonton, AB. In 2002, Jennifer moved to Regina, SK to work as a Fish Habitat Biologist with the Department of Fisheries and Oceans Canada (DFO), and in 2006, she transferred to the DFO Parry Sound, ON District office where she became their Senior Habitat Biologist. In 2013, Jennifer accepted a position as the Lands Manager for Wasauksing First Nation, located on Parry Island in Georgian Bay, leading the First Nation to the successful ratification of their Land Code in 2017.
A proud Haudenosaunee citizen, Jennifer resides just outside Parry Sound, ON, in the traditional territory of the Anishinabek, specifically of the Wasauksing First Nation. Jennifer is married and has an 11-year-old daughter. She most enjoys reading, fishing, boating, and spending time with family and friends at her cottage on Georgian Bay.
Chantal Kitamura
Environment & Enforcement Advisor
Chantal joined the Resource Centre in 2021 and has previously worked in First Nations government, private sector, federal and municipal government roles, including various co-op positions.
Chantal holds a Master of International Forestry Degree from the University of British Columbia. During her time at UBC, Chantal focused on furthering her knowledge of forest policy and resource management as it relates to Indigenous rights and lands governance. Before attending UBC, Chantal graduated from the University of Waterloo where she obtained an Honours Bachelor of Environmental Studies Degree in Urban Planning with specialization in Environmental Planning and Management.
Outside of work, Chantal enjoys spending time in the mountains going hiking and camping.
Cory Kozmik
Environment & Enforcement Advisor
Cory resides within Central-Northern Ontario and holds a BSc (Hons) specializing in Conservation from Trent University and is currently a Master’s candidate in Boreal Ecology at Laurentian University. She also holds a Business diploma from Fleming College and is a certified restricted drone operator and Nitrox Scuba Diver.
Before joining the RC in 2021, Cory spent 5 years with Magnetawan First Nation’s Lands, Resource & Environment Department as their Environmental Management Biologist, where she played a key role in developing programs, advancing their strategies, policies and laws for environmental protections and management under the Framework Agreement, as well as Magnetawan’s Species at Risk (SAR) program, Guardianship program and turtle incubation facility. She developed and delivered training programs focused on Species at Risk and environment to local contractors, environmental monitors, and other organizations to improve environmental awareness on the jobsite and foster meaningful relationships with communities on their lands.
Cory has experience in the fields of project development and management, infrastructure development, environmental impact and risk assessment, mitigation strategies, Species at Risk research, climate change monitoring and adaption planning. Her previous programs were successful in creating ethical spaces and partnerships to ensure that Indigenous Knowledge systems played critical roles to inform research direction, land-use, and adaptation planning.
When Cory is not working, she enjoys riding her horses, playing various instruments, hiking, cooking, and spending time with her family on the farm. She loves to travel, so she can explore the lands and oceans of our planet and is quite the plant enthusiast. She brings passion and enthusiasm to her professional roles and is eager to continue in her work with First Nations across Canada in her role with the RC.
Matthew Charles
Environment & Enforcement Advisor
Matt resides within the Greater Toronto Area on Treaty #13 and Williams Treaty territory lands, home of many First Peoples, including the Mississaugas of the Credit, Anishnaabe, Chippewa, Haudenosaunee and Wendat peoples.
He holds a B.Sc. (Hons.) from the University of Waterloo specializing in Environmental Science. Before joining the Resource Centre in January 2024, Matt worked for a decade in the private sector conducting field work and managing Environmental Site Assessment and remediation projects throughout Ontario.
Matt is proud of his family’s First Nations heritage and his father, aunt and uncle are members of the Chippewas of Rama First Nation. Outside of work, Matt enjoys playing hockey, practicing archery, reading, attending powwows and spending time with his wife and rescue dog Michelangelo.
He is passionate about the environment, protecting the land and eager to support First Nations communities across Canada on their land development projects.
Hilary Black
Planner, Land Code Governance
Hilary Black is a Registered Professional Planner assisting First Nations with land-based planning and plan implementation.
Prior to joining the Resource Centre, she worked in policy and planning in the government of Ontario for 5+ years, and previously worked in northern Ontario directly supporting First Nations in their Comprehensive Community Planning processes. She has a masters of Planning from the University of Guelph.
She is a grateful to reside in Toronto, covered under Treaty 13. She is the eldest of 4 kids, born to a Pakistani mum and mixed European (by way of Saskatchewan) dad.
Andrew Smith
Planner, Land Code Governance
Andrew joins the Resource Centre from the west coast of Ktaqmkuk (Newfoundland), homeland of the Qalipu First Nation and the traditional unceded territory of the Mi’kmaq and the Beothuk. He currently resides in the Siknikt district of Mi’kma’ki (Moncton, New Brunswick).
Before joining the Resource Centre, Andrew worked in various professional planning roles as a consultant and with municipal, regional, and provincial governments and organizations. He has held various management and senior planner positions with extensive experience in policy development and project management. Andrew is a past President of the New Brunswick Association of Planners (NBAP) and remains an active volunteer in the profession.
In addition to being a Registered Professional Planner (RPP), Andrew also holds professional teaching certificates in various provinces. Before entering planning, he worked as an instructor for the Saskatchewan Indian Institute of Technologies (SIIT) and the Garden Hill First Nation Education Authority.
Wade Davidson
Enforcement Advisor
Wade Davidson joined the First Nations Land Management Resource Centre as an Enforcement Advisor in 2022. He has travelled extensively but always returns to Treaty 7 lands; where he was born, raised, and educated. Wade attended Lethbridge College, obtaining a diploma in Environmental Science with a focus on Renewable Resource Management followed by a specialization certificate in Conservation Enforcement. After college, he went to work for what is now the Canada Border Service Agency, at Coutts, Alberta. In 2005 Wade moved on to a career with the Lethbridge Police Service where he served in patrol operations, traffic operations, and as a collision reconstructionist. Wade has been qualified as an expert witness in both the Provincial Court of Alberta and the Alberta Court of Queen’s Bench. He also spent several years as a part-time police recruit trainer for the Center for Advancement of Community Justice at Lethbridge College. In 2014, he was promoted to sergeant and had the opportunity to lead patrol teams, manage the traffic unit, and work in professional standards. Wade has been involved in policy development, legislation development and establishing enforcement programs at the local, provincial, and federal levels.
Wade, his wife, and their labradoodle live in Lethbridge, AB. They have an adult son serving in the Canadian Armed Forces in Oromocto, NB, a daughter playing rugby and attending university in Victoria, BC, and a daughter finishing grade 12 at a hockey academy. He spends as much time as possible outdoors and looks forward to having any of his kids home to scramble up the nearby mountains with him. He also enjoys both riding and repairing motorcycles as much as his time and budget allow.
Tim Caddel
Enforcement Advisor – East
Tim Caddel, Enforcement Advisor, enjoyed working with First Nation Communities and building working relationships with them over his whole Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources(OMNR) career. Tim was an active management member of the Restorative Justice initiative( known as the Collaborative Compliance Initiative (CCI))that OMNR implemented working with First Nation communities resolving compliance issues, he was and remains a true supporter of the Provincial Restorative Justice Coordinators across the province where he provided guidance on several occasions on various matters related to conservation and safety.
Tim was very fortunate to receive the opportunity to work on a team of great people from Ministry of Attorney General’s Office, OMNR Legal Services Branch, OMNR- Regional Operations Division, Nipissing First Nation and Enforcement Branch staff developing and implementing the Nipissing First Nation/MNR Memorandum Of Understanding (MOU) which included NFN fishing laws, Restorative Justice Processes, an Enforcement Protocol and a regulator bridge to support Nipissing First Nation to enforce their Fisheries Laws, which were tested and held up in trial in the Ontario Court of Justice.
He is married and has three adult daughters and four grandchildren ranging from 5 to 16 years old( 3 boys and one girl).
Leeanna Rhodes
GIS Specialist
Leeanna Rhodes, a member of the Muscowpetung Saulteaux First Nation, has over 35 years GIS experience, over 25 years of using GPS and over 25 years working with First Nation Organizations. Leeanna received her professional training from Simon Fraser University to BCIT and attending several ESRI hosted GIS certified workshops. Leeanna has shared her knowledge with many First Nations’ community members on how to use a GPS and map that same data on GIS, which include Haida Gwai, Gitsan, Wetsewatan, Doig River and many communities in British Columbia.
Leeanna gained her Land Code experience from working with the community AQAM as their Lands Officer for over 5 years.
She has applied GIS to many disciplines such as forestry, anthropology, Oil and Gas, Mining, Archaeology and Land Code mapping. She has worked with several organizations such as Treaty 8 Tribal Association, Sto:lo Nation, Ktunaxa Kinbasket Tribal Council, Shuswap Nation to name a few.
Some of the products developed by Ms. Rhodes include, but not limited to: Maps made for the documentary/video Peace Out; the book Where Happiness Dwells-A History of the Dane-Zaa First Nations and The Sto:lo Coast Salish Historical Atlas.
Leeanna has been married for over 35 years, is also the mother of two adult children and the proud grandmother of two amazing grandsons.
She enjoys NASCAR, POWWOWS and being with her family as much as possible.
Training, Mentorship & Professional Development
Leana Farlam
Manager: TMPD
Leana joined the First Nations Land Management Resource Centre in 2019 as the learning & development specialist. She grew up in southern Ontario where she obtained a Bachelor of Environmental Studies, Bachelor of Education and a Master of Education in Curriculum and Instruction.
Leana maintains her professional license with the Ontario College of Teachers and membership with the Canadian Association of Instructional Designers.
Leana, her husband and two pups live in Kingston, Ontario.
Stephanie Hartlen
Learning Experience Coordinator: TMPD
Stephanie is a certified teacher in Alberta, with a degree from the University of Alberta and recently completed a certification in First Nation Tax Administration through TULO’s program at Thompson Rivers University. In 2024, she joined the First Nations Land Management Resource Centre as the Learning Experience Coordinator. Her background as both an educator and a member of a First Nation lands team gives her a fresh and creative perspective in her role within the Training, Mentorship & Professional Development department.
Stephanie lives with her husband and their three daughters in Edmonton, within Treaty 6 territory. A lover of cats, handcrafts, and yoga, she’s also passionate about travel. As a family, they’ve explored over 20 countries and have had the enriching experience of living abroad twice.
Kristina Jones
Learning Experience Designer: TMPD
Kristina Jones joined the First Nations Land Management Resource Centre in 2024, bringing extensive experience in education and instructional design. Growing up on Vancouver Island, Kristina’s journey included living and working in the Northwest Territories and Ontario, as well as eight years teaching abroad in Ukraine and Eswatini. Since returning to Canada, she has transitioned from teaching to learning and development, combining her graduate studies in instructional design with practical experience gained through her work with the Government of Nunavut. Her goal is to collaborate with First Nations communities to create accessible and culturally relevant learning experiences that meet their needs.
Kristina lives in southeastern BC with her family, where she spends most of her free time planning endless home renovations, walking her giant dog, and adding books to her reading list.
Llana Teichroeb/spəplínaʔ
Event Coordinator: TMPD
Llana, also known by her indigenous name spəplínaʔ, is a member of Westbank First Nation.
Llana has had an impressive career across various industries, demonstrating leadership and dedication to her community and culture.
For over a decade, Llana held a senior management role in health care, where she honed her skills in strategic management and team leadership. Following this role, she spent two years as business manager in the world of personal development until the onset of the COVID19 pandemic forced its closure.
Llana decided to take time to pursue learning her indigenous language as a full-time student while working part-time for her community. She also does contract work for the City of Kelowna as an indigenous collaborator on several land redevelopment projects, bringing a unique cultural perspective to urban planning.
Deeply committed to education and the preservation of her culture, Llana graduated along side her daughter in June 2024 with a bachelor’s degree from the University of British Columbia in language, specializing in nsyilxcən, the Okanagan language. Her academic journey continues at Royal Roads University, where she is a graduate student pursuing a master’s degree in leadership.
Beyond her professional and academic accomplishments, Llana is a devoted mother to three grown children and their spouses and a proud grandmother to five wonderful grandchildren. She cherishes her family and is grateful for the role they play in her life.
Llana is excited to meet everyone and can’t wait to contribute to the LABRC team.