Cree Nation Government

Stephen Penner's summer placement was with the Cree Nation Government and focused around two critical projects that the Department of Commerce and Industry had initiated. He was involved in community consultations, with the main project involving the facilitation of key Cree stakeholders in the building of a framework for a trade and commerce agreement. For the second project Stephen gathered opinions on the idea of the “Cree Story” which would authenticate and certify Cree arts and crafts. Stephen, along with the facilitation team, conducted consultations with over 18 Cree Entities and Economic Development Corporations, 7 of the 9 Chiefs and Councils, and met with entrepreneurs groups across Cree territory (Eeyou Istchee) estimated total from the consultations is around 400-450 people. This presented a tremendous logistical challenge that was met by an amazing team.

"It would not have been possible without the amazing teachings that I received from all involved in the MDP program and my new friends and colleagues from all over Eeyou Istchee." Stephen