Bri Huot

Elder's Bio

Elder Heather Poitras, a member of the Sawridge First Nation (Treaty 8), is currently serving as an Elder for her Nation. Elder Heather grew up by the Kehewin Cree Nation (Treaty 6). Proud of both her First Nation and Métis culture, she has dedicated her 25+ year federal career to Indigenous awareness and culture. 

As the Elder-In-Residence at the Northern Forestry Centre (NRCAN) in Edmonton, she also played an instrumental role in the establishment of the We Walk Together Forward – Indigenous Learning Centre at the Northern Forestry Centre, Edmonton, Alberta.

Elder Heather Poitras, a descendant of Big Bear, comes from a long line of leaders. Her chapan (Cree for great-grandfather) J.F. Dion, one of the founders of the Métis Nation of Alberta, ensured that the Métis in Alberta had land base. The only province to do so.  

Elder Heather strives to ensure that her people, the original people of this country, are included in every aspect of society. She has been dedicated to creating awareness of Canada’s true history, to help with the healing process of reconciliation, and to improve relationships.

Northern Forestry Centre

Stephanie's Bio

Stephanie Leonard (She/Her) was brought on by Aseniwuche Winewak Nation of Canada in 2017 in the roll of Environmental Coordinator. As part of the Land and Resource Department, Stephanie assists with environmental projects, consultation activities, GIS mapping, and is the Program Manager for AWN’s Caribou Patrol Program, which received an Emerald Award in the Wildlife and Biodiversity category in 2023.

Stephanie loves being outdoors near the small mountain town of Grande Cache, where she lives, spending time camping, hiking, and horseback riding. She is passionate about the work she does with caribou and on the environment.

Aseniwuche Winewak Nation of Canada

Hyerin's Bio

Hyerin is excited to answer any questions you may have about the environmental and forestry-related programs at the University of Alberta!

Faculty of Agricultural, Life & Environmental Sciences

Trevor's Bio

Trevor Nichols runs the JFR (Junior Forest Rangers) program across Alberta and has been doing so for the last eight years. Trevor has a passion for teaching and learning from others in the outdoor field. He also loves birds, canoeing/kayaking, photography, playing sports and Dungeons and Dragons.

Junior Forest Rangers