Kiniw Management

Wallace Fox served as Chief of Onion Lake Cree Nation for many years. In that role he built economic strength for his nation while holding on to nêhiyawak ways of governing and being sovereign. He understood that wahkotowin, our relationship to one another and to the land, is the base that everything else stands on. Seeing him again showed me that leadership does not stop when the title changes. It moves into new rooms and new work.

Wallace now works within Alberta Indian Oil and Gas. That move has given him a view that comes from both governance and industry, and he speaks direct about how First Nations need to be treated as partners going forward, not as parties to be managed. See him in a corporate setting with him was a chance to see miyo-wicehtowin, good relations, lived out by someone who has put in the years of service to his nation.

Academics and athletics work together to help students succeed. While academics build knowledge, athletics teach discipline, teamwork, leadership, and perseverance. Sports are an important part of a child’s education, helping students develop skills, confidence, and character that support success both in the classroom and in life.

Marty McSorley, who spent years grinding it out for the Edmonton Oilers and Los Angeles Kings, made his way to Kapawe’no First Nation for Hockey Day and gave our young players something they will carry with them a long time. McSorley won two Stanley Cups with the Oilers in 1987 and 1988, playing alongside Wayne Gretzky for eight seasons and earning a reputation as “The Great One’s” bodyguard on the ice. He was even part of the 1988 trade that sent him and Gretzky together to Los Angeles. He did not just show up and shake hands in Kapawe’no. He got out along the ice, talked with the kids about the game, and shared what it takes to play at that level and to stay humble while doing it.

What stood out most was how McSorley treated every kid the same, whether they were the strongest skater on the ice or still finding their footing. He answered questions, offered pointers, and reminded them that hard work carries a person further than talent alone. Hockey Day in Kapawe’no has always been about bringing the nation together around the game, and this year the Nation’s young players got to stand beside a two-time Stanley Cup champion and Gretzky’s own protector, someone who lived that game at the highest level and still made time to invest in the next generation coming up on Turtle Island.

Photo (left to right): Barry Sharkawi, Chairperson of the Northern Lakes College Board of Governors; Hereditary Chief Sydney L. Halcrow of Kapawe’no First Nation; Lifetime Councillors Debra Chalifoux and Pamela Halcrow, and Boh Kubrakovich-Kiniw, Superintendent of KFN Collegiate, during the official key exchange at the former Northern Lakes College Grouard Campus. 

Kapawe’no First Nation celebrated a historic achievement in July 2025 with the acquisition of the Northern Lakes College Grouard Campus, including the educational facility, student housing, and surrounding lands.

During the official ceremony, Hereditary Chief Sydney L. Halcrow emphasized the importance of advancing nêhiyawêwin (Cree language), academics and athletics a winning combination, and opportunities for future generations of Boh Kapawe’no citizens. 

The official key exchange symbolized the transfer of the campus from Northern Lakes College to Kapawe’no First Nation, with Board Chair Barry Sharkawi presenting the keys to Hereditary Chief Sydney L. Halcrow. Leaders, citizens, and guests gathered to recognize the significance of the acquisition, which expands the Nation’s land base and the continued commitment to sovereignty, self-determination, and knowledge ever increasing. 

Moving Nation pride forward together. Alicia Rae with Grand Chief Kyra Wilson of the Assembly of Manitoba Chiefs (AMC), representing the strength, resilience, and leadership of Anishinaabe women working to create opportunities for future generations.

Kiniw recently met with fellow Nation builders Barry Sharkawi and Dan Martel, Four Winds to discuss leadership, governance, and the ongoing work of strengthening First Nations. The gathering provided an opportunity to share perspectives, build relationships, and exchange ideas on advancing Nation priorities.

Kapawe’no First Nation gathered at the KFN School to honor Hereditary Chief Sydney L. Halcrow for his steadfast leadership, dedication to nation unity, and commitment to preserving nêhiyawak mino pimachimowin.

The ceremony highlighted Chief Halcrow’s pivotal role in guiding the nation and safeguarding its cultural heritage. Alongside Lifetime Councillors Debra Chalifoux and Pamela Halcrow, Alberta Native Hockey Legend Clyde Goodswimmer, Joseph Busch and Boh Kubrakovich-Kiniw; Chief Halcrow was gifted a heartfelt honor song in recognition of his enduring contributions to the nation’s identity and well-being.

The event incorporated the 7 Sacred Grandmother and Grandfather teachings, reinforcing a shared spirit of togetherness among students, leaders, and nation citizens. Organizers expressed deep appreciation to everyone who attended the gathering, noting that Chief Halcrow’s legacy continues to inspire the strength, vibrancy, and future of Kapawe’no First Nation’s rich traditions.

From 2022 to 2025, Kiniw was blessed to help build a strong foundation for Nêhiyawawin and Pimâcihowin, guided by dedicated teachers, respected Knowledge Keepers, and gifted Nêhiyawak iskwewak. Through their teachings, leadership, and commitment, we have strengthened our language, culture, and way of life while creating opportunities for future generations to learn, grow, and carry these teachings forward. Hiy Hiy kiinanaskomin to everyone who has shared their knowledge, time, and spirit along this journey.

Under the leadership and friendship of Barry Sharkawi, Kiniw continues to walk a path grounded in culture, nation building, and purpose. This moment reflects the strength of relationships, the sharing of knowledge, and a commitment to lifting future generations through tradition, leadership, and a vision that honours the past while building for the future.

Alicia Rae continues to advocate for Anishinaabe Ikwewag through leadership, public speaking, and community engagement, encouraging women and youth to find their voices and lead with confidence.