Tuesday, April 14, 2026 – Mississaugas of the Credit First Nation - The Ontario First Nations Technical Services Corporation (OFNTSC) would like to congratulate the recipients of this year’s National First Nations Water Leadership Award:
- Monica McColman of Michel First Nation in Alberta (for the individual category), and
- the Water Treatment Facility Team from Walpole Island First Nation in Ontario (for the team category).
As noted in the official announcement, this award recognizes individuals and teams who demonstrate exceptional leadership in advancing safe drinking water in First Nations communities.
OFNTSC is honoured to have had the opportunity to support water operator training alongside the Water Treatment Facility Team at Walpole Island First Nation over the years. Through its Circuit Rider Training Program (CRTP), OFNTSC Water Operator Trainer, Jack Brown has worked collaboratively with community operators for more than 15 years.
“On behalf of the Ontario First Nations Technical Services Corporation, I would like to extend our heartfelt congratulations to this year’s award recipients,” said Melanie Debassige, Executive Director of OFNTSC. “The dedication and leadership demonstrated by these individuals and teams are truly inspiring. We are grateful to have been able to walk alongside communities like Walpole Island First Nation in their ongoing commitment to protecting safe drinking water.”
OFNTSC also recognizes the members of the Walpole Island First Nation Water Treatment Facility Team — Colin Peters, Joshua Schram, Jalen Fisher, Raven Kicknosway, Brooklin Sword, and Brayden Sands — for their continued dedication and service to their community.