A different direction Wemindjis new Chief Frank Atsynia shares priorities

On September 18, the Cree Nation of Wemindji elected Frank Atsynia as Chief, overcoming former Chief Christina Gilpin with 56% of votes cast. Atsynia thanked his predecessor for her eight years of dedicated service and promised to stand firmly on the values that have always brought the community together – unity, inclusion and progress.  With a lifetime of leadership experience in the community’s business sector, social development and sports departments, this was Atsynia’s third time running for Chief. He served as Deputy Chief from 2013 to 2017. His election campaign was described as one of listening, ensuring that no one gets left behind.“I felt it was time for a different direction,” Atsynia told the Nation. “I worked in all types of fields and was able to get understanding of how all these departments work. Some things I encountered, I thought if I was in charge I’d do it differently.” With this transition, Atsynia is relinquishing his presidential roles at Tawich Construction, VCC General Contractor and Wemindji Paving. However, he plans to maintain his inclusive leadership style, creating a stronger sense of community ownership so everyone is empowered to play a role in its collective progress.  “I’ve allowed our staff to spread their wings and find their full potential,” asserted Atsynia. “Anywhere I’ve worked, I’ve always felt I’m at the same level as anyone else, part of a team. You have to respect people to gain people’s respect.” Growing up on the land surrounded by caring grandparents and other Elders, Atsynia became known for playing and coaching minor hockey and other sports. Alluding to personal struggles that forced him to change his lifestyle, Atsynia said he made a choice to break the cycle of intergenerational impacts so his children wouldn’t be affected. “All the things I did not like when I was brought up, I try to take away,” he said. “Nobody can help you unless you help yourself first. Forgiveness is not for them – it’s for you to continue moving forward in your life.” Pledging to establish a youth advisory council, Atsynia insisted that young people need to be more involved in community planning. As perhaps Wemindji’s first youth chief, he worked to create its youth council. He wants to expand education and mentorship opportunities, along with initiatives like the recent 11-day youth experience trip to Alberta, funded by Apatisiiwin Skills Development. During the unforgettable trip, youth experienced canoeing on Banff’s Lake Louise, guided museum and university tours, and the National Indigenous Cultural Expo in Edmonton. As the current leadership ends its mandate with Youth Chief Drayden Mistacheesick being elected to band council, youth elections were held October 28. When Wemindji hosted the Cree Nation Youth Council’s annual general assembly in September, it included the first ever traditional inauguration for Youth Grand Chief Jade Mukash and Deputy Darius Neacappo-Pelchat. Former Grand Chief Matthew Mukash and Danielle Mukash hosted a pipe ceremony and quilts symbolizing protection and responsibility were bestowed on the new leaders, who held the original CNYC feather while stating their commitment. Atsynia plans to invest in cultural and mental wellness services that support Wemindji’s families, creating stable local jobs and improving housing availability. With ongoing rental inspections of rental units to plan necessary renovations, the community is hosting a housing symposium November 17-19. “I worked in building houses and the price of materials has had about an 80% increase,” said Atsynia. “I used to pay $2.95 for a 2×4 and now it’s $13.95. I think the Cree Nation can unite to control the supply chain. We have to work as a whole to control the costs.” With a new riverside hiking trail and growing infrastructure, Atsynia is committed to building the local economy while protecting the land and culture. He’s proud that the community’s own companies have been central to its growth, generating wealth and giving Wemindji members the opportunity to work and gain skills. “At the end of the day, it’s making sure everyone has an opportunity to contribute to the growth,” said Atsynia. “People probably haven’t heard of me because I’m very reserved and respectful. I like to share with everybody in accomplishments – that’s the key to success in life.”