By Brad Stables
•
July 3, 2025
At Willow Lake Métis Nation (WLMN), governance is more than policies and procedures — it is the framework through which we serve, support, and stand up for our Citizens. Good governance is about listening, learning, and leading with intention. It is about ensuring that every Citizen can trust the systems behind the services they receive. We believe strong administration is the key to self-determination, community well-being, and long-term success. Through careful planning and transparent leadership, WLMN continues to build administrative structures that not only serve our present but shape our future. These systems are grounded in Métis values and aligned with our Seven Pillars of Governance , including Governance and Fiscal Responsibility, Citizenship and Nationhood, and Economic Development. Governance Rooted in Responsibility and Vision Willow Lake Métis Nation operates with integrity, accountability, and a commitment to ongoing improvement. Under the leadership of Executive Director Stella Lavallee, we strive for governance that is both transparent and responsive. This means ensuring every policy, every decision, and every new initiative is made with Citizens in mind. We are continuously refining how our Nation operates through the creation of fair and clear policies, the development of support programs that meet real needs, and the delivery of services that empower individuals and families across Northern Alberta. This approach to leadership helps to build confidence, strengthen trust, and ensure every Citizen feels connected to the governance of their Nation. Building Stronger Systems Through Administration WLMN’s administrative work is where vision becomes action. Our team works diligently to manage the day-to-day operations of the Nation in ways that reflect our collective priorities. Our key areas of administrative focus include the following initiatives. Policy creation ensures that all guidelines and decisions are thoughtfully developed and reflect the needs and values of our Citizens. These policies provide clarity and consistency, helping our programs run smoothly and equitably. Policy administration puts those guidelines into action. We work to ensure all procedures are accessible and easy to understand, so that every Citizen knows what supports are available and how to access them. Our Citizenship program is foundational to our Nation’s identity. We maintain accurate records and support Citizens in accessing the services they are entitled to. More importantly, our work-around Citizenship fosters a strong sense of belonging, pride, and accountability within the community. Review the application form to become a Citizen today. Support programs are a direct expression of our commitment to well-being. These programs help Citizens meet basic needs, build skills, and explore opportunities. From food and health security to education and employment, our supports are designed to address barriers and open doors. Programs That Reflect Our Values in Action The work of administration and governance becomes real in the programs that reach Citizens. These initiatives are thoughtfully developed based on feedback, community priorities, and the vision of a stronger Nation. Our Class 3 Driver’s License Program was a great example of this. Through this program, Citizens gained access to professional driver training and graduated with the licensing required for employment in trades, construction, and transportation. It’s more than a license — it’s a step toward financial independence and long-term career success. The Security Guard Training Program offered another vital employment pathway. Participants gained industry-recognized certification and valuable experience that translated directly into job opportunities in safety, event security, and community services. These kinds of initiatives support individual empowerment while contributing to the broader safety and prosperity of our Nation. In addition to workforce initiatives, WLMN’s policies support Citizens through every stage of life. Our Bereavement Assistance Policy provides compassionate support during times of loss. The Community Investment and Citizen Support Funding Policy is designed to achieve two key outcomes: supporting organizations developing programs within our region, and investing directly in Citizens to advance the Métis community. Through our Education Policy, Training Program, and Employment and Training services, we help Citizens build lasting careers and achieve personal goals with confidence. In early 2023, we also announced two new initiatives that address pressing day-to-day needs: a technology access program that provided Fibre Optic internet to Citizens, and safeguarding the future well-being of its community members through their Wills Support Initiative. These initiatives are practical, thoughtful, and rooted in care. They reflect WLMN’s commitment to ensuring accessibility for its Citizens. Each of these programs is supported by well-developed administrative processes and clear policies. They demonstrate how responsible governance directly benefits Citizens and reflects our collective values. Self-Determination in Practice WLMN’s approach to governance is built on the principle of Métis self-determination. We believe in managing our affairs, shaping our programs, and making decisions that honour our distinct culture and identity. Through careful policy development and strong administrative oversight, we are exercising that right every day. Self-determination also means we are not waiting for outside systems to define who we are or what we deserve. Instead, we are building a governance model that reflects the wisdom of our Elders, the energy of our youth, and the shared purpose of our community. This model prioritizes transparency. Citizens deserve to know how decisions are made, how funding is spent, and how policies affect them. It also prioritizes adaptability. As the needs of our community evolve, so too must our systems. That is why we are always listening, always learning, and always striving to improve. Looking Forward: A Nation Built to Last Governance and administration are not static — they are living systems that must grow with our community. WLMN is committed to making those systems stronger, smarter, and more inclusive with every passing year. We are proud of what we’ve accomplished, and we know there is more to do. We are continuing to develop new programs, improve access to existing supports, and refine our policy framework to serve all Citizens more effectively. If you are a Citizen looking to learn more about your rights, opportunities, or how to get involved, we encourage you to visit our Citizen Resources page. These tools are here to support you, because when our Citizens thrive, our Nation thrives. Together, through responsible leadership and transparent administration, we are shaping a stronger Willow Lake Métis Nation.