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It has been a busy few weeks for our Métis Government, filled with opportunities to strengthen connection across our community.
Last week, I had the honour of attending our annual Youth and Seniors Gathering, which marked an important milestone: 10 years of bringing Métis Youth and Seniors from across Alberta together. What began as a small afternoon gathering has grown into a vibrant weekend, welcoming more than 400 participants and serving as a powerful bridge between generations.
This year’s theme, Anisko, meaning connection in Michif and Cree, invited reflection on how we connect with one another, across generations, and to our Métis culture. Our keynote speaker, Chelsea Vowel, shared teachings on the Métis understanding of time as circular, reminding us that knowledge flows between past, present, and future.
This gathering continues to strengthen Métis identity, honour our seniors as Knowledge Keepers, and ensure our traditions are carried forward with pride.
If your business is registered with Alberta Métis Works, join us at the upcoming Business Mixer & Summit in Calgary, Slave Lake, and Edmonton. For details, visit AlbertaMetis.com/amw-summit-events.
Together, we are building strong connections in culture, community, and business.
Andrea Sandmaier
President, Otipemisiwak Métis Government
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Citizen Spotlight:
The Outstanding Senior And Youth Award Recipients
The Otipemisiwak Métis Government also had an opportunity to celebrate this year’s Outstanding Senior and Youth award recipients. Both recipients were nominated by their fellow Citizens during a month-long nomination period.
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Outstanding Youth Recipient:
Lyric Jesso
Lyric is a proud Métis Youth who was born and raised in Lac La Biche. As a strong advocate for youth leadership, Lyric consistently highlights the valuable perspectives that young people bring to the table.
Outstanding Senior Recipient:
Dan Cardinal
Dan is a deeply respected and dedicated member of the Métis community whose lifelong commitment to language revitalization, inclusion, and youth empowerment has made a lasting impact across generations.
See below to read more about their outstanding contributions.
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Residential School Survivors' Project
The Otipemisiwak Métis Government is beginning an archival project to gather and honour the stories of Métis Residential School Survivors. Through this work, we hope to preserve and share the history our Citizens endured in Canada’s residential school system. This is a history that has deeply impacted our Citizens, and too often they are left out of broader conversations or overlooked.
Through this project, we seek to create a space for Métis stories to be heard, remembered, and respected. The project is guided by the stories of Survivors, family members, and the community.
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Please consider filling out this form so our team can follow up with you about your involvement in this important project.
All personal information and registration details will remain confidential.
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We Want To Hear From You!
The Otipemisiwak Métis Government’s Consultation Department invites Citizens to share their perspectives through a survey being conducted as part of the National Urban Park Program’s Métis Tourism Feasibility Study.
This survey focuses on exploring opportunities connected to Edmonton’s North Saskatchewan River Valley. Your input will help us understand how Métis culture, history, and experiences can be meaningfully reflected in future tourism initiatives.
| | We appreciate your time and encourage you to share your thoughts. | | | |
Curious About Métis
Rights And The Crown Consultation Process
In Alberta?
The Otipemisiwak Métis Government’s Consultation Department is hosting in-person and virtual education sessions throughout March!
We encourage all Citizens to sign up and join in on one of these valuable sessions.
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Session Dates:
- Saturday, March 14 at 12 p.m. – Calgary, Alberta, in-person
- Tuesday, March 17 at 10 a.m. – Virtual
- Wednesday, March 18 at 6 p.m. – Virtual
- Saturday, March 21 at 12 p.m. – Edmonton in-person
- Sunday, March 22 at 12 p.m. – Virtual
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Complete The Migratory Bird Survey!
Harvested migratory birds in 2025?
Don’t forget to complete the
Migratory Bird Harvesting Survey at AlbertaMetis.com/MigratoryBirdSurvey!
Reporting your harvest is an easy way to support management and conservation efforts. Participants can also enter a giveaway to win 1 of 11 Visa gift cards.
Questions? Please contact Jac Curry at: environment@metis.org.
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Learn How To Nurture A Pollinator Garden At Our
March Speaker Spotlight!
If you’re passionate about pollinators and gardening, you won’t want to miss our Gardening for Pollinators Speaker Spotlight on March 24.
This webinar runs from 6 p.m.–7:30 p.m. MST and will be led by Shelbey, a Métis gardener. You’ll learn how to make a pollinator garden that suits your space, how to choose the right plants, and how to tend your gardens with care. We’ll also cover how you can tackle common garden problems such as pests and invasive plants.
For more information, please reach out to climate@metis.org.
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Pathways To Healthy Living | |
Cancer Support And Navigation
Have you or a loved one been diagnosed with cancer? The Otipemisiwak Métis Government’s Health Department is here to help. Through our Supports and Services Navigation (SSN) Program, we provide cancer-specific resources and navigation, including referrals to cancer-related supports and services, and follow-up support throughout your cancer journey.
For more information, contact the Health Department’s Supports and Services Navigator at ssn@metis.org or
780-455-2200.
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Financial Assistance
For Funeral Costs
If you have lost an immediate family member and are struggling with funeral expenses, the Benevolence Fund may provide financial relief of $500.
To qualify, you or the deceased must be an Otipemisiwak Métis Government Citizen, you must be next of kin of the deceased, and financially responsible for the funeral.
Applications must be submitted within
4 months of the passing.
Processing takes up to 6 weeks.
Call 780-455-2200 or email SSN@metis.org for more information.
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Travelling For Medical Appointments?
Our newly expanded Medical Travel Program can provide both mileage reimbursement and accommodations for Métis Citizens across the province.
If you are an Otipemisiwak Métis Government Citizen travelling to your next medical appointment, you may be eligible!
Learn about the assistance we can provide!
Contact the Health Program Coordinator at 780-455-2200 or mtp@metis.org.
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Métis Mingle – Cold Lake
Join us in Cold Lake on Saturday, March 14 for a free, family-friendly day focused on connection, culture, and well-being.
There will be fun for the whole family with family friendly activities like jigging and Dot Art. This event is catered to children and youth (aged 6–17).
Light breakfast and lunch will be provided.
Please note: Childcare is not available, but children’s and adult sessions will run concurrently.
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Eligibility:
- Adults (18+) must register — space is limited and first come, first served
- The family must have Métis children attending between the ages of 6–17
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Mêtawêtan Day Home Grants — Available For Day Home Providers!
We’re here to support you at every stage of your journey as a licensed Métis day home provider!
Whether you’re just starting out or growing your culturally grounded day home, we have resources, funding, and support available for you.
There are now two grants available for licensed Métis day home providers:
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The Day Home Startup Pilot Program offers step-by-step support for new providers opening and operating a licensed day home.
The Métis Day Home Cultural Support Grant provides resources and funding to help existing licensed Métis day homes integrate Métis culture, including an early learning resource kit and access to specialized Métis ECE training.
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FASD Resource Kits
For Métis Families
The Children and Family Services’ FASD Bridging Connections Program is bringing you a special FASD mailout full of resources and activities rooted in Métis culture, values, and traditions.
Sign up to receive your package including:
- Easy-to-use tip sheets
- Métis cultural teachings and activities
- Practical tools to support loved ones with FASD
- Thoughtful gifts to remind you to care for yourself
| | Our FASD Team is committed to building compassion, understanding, and wellness in our communities, one step at a time. | | | | |
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Mamawi Pimohtetan
Métis men (Citizens or self-identified) aged 18 and older are invited to join us virtually on Zoom for a valuable opportunity to learn about boundaries, coping strategies, and healthy relationships while engaging with traditional Métis knowledge. We encourage you to participate in Mamawi Pimohtetan, which means “Walking Together” in Cree.
This weekly men’s group is designed to empower Métis men by strengthening their connection to culture and community, while also addressing and breaking the cycles of family violence.
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Come together and grow with us as a community!
February 2 – April 20
Mondays, 7 p.m.–9 p.m.
To sign up, email justice@metis.org.
Please note that you may the meeting at any time.
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Learn Michif With
Dan The Métis Man
Join us with Dan Cardinal for a series of lessons to begin your journey into learning Northern Michif! Lessons are LIVE on Zoom and are open to everyone. Tune in for interactive learning, Michif teachings, and the opportunity to ask your Michif questions!
Tuesday, March 10
5 p.m.–7 p.m.
Next lessons:
March 24
April 7
April 21
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To access the Zoom link, head to the link in our bio.
For more information, contact Rylee at rsargeant@metis.org.
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Alberta Métis Fest Is Back For Its 8th Annual Celebration!
Join us June 12–13 at the Cultural Gathering Centre, Métis Crossing, for two thrilling days filled with Métis culture and community.
Experience the Métis Jamboree, Jigging Competitions, Artist Market, and so much more!
Stay tuned for more details!
We can’t wait to celebrate with you!
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Find Your District Captain Or Citizens' Representative | | | | |
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Districts 5 And District 6:
Métis Career Fair With
First Responders
Have you ever thought of a rewarding career as a first responder? Come and meet some of the people who have been working in the field and see if it’s the right career for you!
On Saturday, April 18, from 10 a.m.–
4 p.m., join us at The Confluence in Calgary for our Métis Career Fair with First Responders for a chance to explore career opportunities and learn more about life as a first responder from those out in the field.
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Districts 5 And District 6:
Métis Beading Circle
Join us every Wednesday for a warm and welcoming Métis Beading Circle hosted by the Calgary Elbow and Calgary Nosehill Métis Districts!
These evenings are a chance to connect with fellow Citizens, learn new techniques, and celebrate Métis culture together. Bring your own projects, start something new, or share your knowledge with others — all are welcome!
Come bead, visit, and enjoy a cozy evening in community!
| | No beading experience is needed. A few beginner beading kits will be available on a first come, first served basis. Donations of beading supplies to help new beaders are appreciated! Make sure to bring your own water and snacks. | | | |
Districts 5 And District 6:
Seniors Potluck And Bingo
Join us for a monthly Métis gathering of fun, food, and friendship at our Seniors Potluck and Bingo hosted by the Calgary Elbow and Calgary Nosehill Métis Districts!
Every fourth Saturday of the month from 11 a.m.–4 p.m., come out for a relaxed afternoon gathering with our seniors, enjoying friendly bingo games, sharing delicious home-cooked dishes, and spending time together in good company. Please note there will be no bingo in July or August.
We look forward to seeing you there!
| | District 11: Tea And Bannock Social | |
The Alberta Métis Works Business Mixers & Summits!
Are you looking to expand your existing business or start a new one? The Otipemisiwak Métis Government invites you to meet other Metis-owned businesses in your area!
Time is running out to register for the upcoming Alberta Métis Works Business Mixers & Summits! Swipe left for the general event agenda!
If you haven’t registered yet, we’re happy to remind you that registration is still open for our last two locations.
Slave Lake: March 21 | Registration closes March 11
Edmonton: March 23 | Registration closes March 11
We're excited to see you there!
To learn more about Alberta Métis Works, visit Web.AlbertaMetisWorks.ca
For more information and to register, see below. Scan QR code to view agenda.
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Welcome Spring With Your Family At Métis Crossing!
Join us for brunch on Sunday,
March 22 for a Métis-inspired brunch featuring crafts, stories, and activities for all ages.
Celebrate the season of renewal and new beginnings together.
Sunday, March 22
9:30 a.m.–1:30 p.m.
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The Sage & Spruce Indigenous Spa Is Officially Open!
Rooted in Métis traditions, our new spa offers a place of rest, renewal, and reconnection with the land. Experience the Fire & Ice Wellness Experience, featuring a cedar-infused sauna and invigorating cold plunge in a private setting for up to four guests.
Or choose from our curated massage treatments that blend modern techniques with traditional Métis wellness practices.
| | This is wellness like nowhere else, where culture, nature, and healing come together. | | | |
Vendor Call-Out:
Spring Equinox Market
We're seeking vendors to be part of our Spring Equinox Market on March 21. This is an application-based selection process (not first-come, first-served), so we encourage you to apply early.
Saturday, March 21
Market Hours: 11 a.m.–3 p.m.
Vendor Set-Up: 10 a.m.
Vendor Take-Down: 4 p.m.
Table Fee: $30
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To Apply: Prepayment and a signed vendor agreement are required.
Registration closes March 10.
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We Are Hiring: Step Into Hospitality That Tells A Story
At Métis Crossing, you won’t just find a workplace, you’ll find a calling. This is a place where the past breathes through every fiddle strum, every bead, every story told around a crackling fire under the northern sky.
Perched on the banks of the majestic North Saskatchewan River, Métis Crossing is Alberta’s first major Métis cultural destination; a place of learning, healing, and celebration. Our Lodge, Cultural Gathering Centre, and sweeping landscape are not just buildings or land; they are living reflections of Métis pride and perseverance.
We’re looking for dynamic team members who can bring that story to life. Someone who can blend the art of hospitality with the heart of Métis culture.
If you see hospitality as more than service, and see it as connection, any of these might be your calling.
All roles are posted on our website at www.metiscrossing.com/careers
Executive Chef
Chief Operations Officer
Human Resources Administrative Assistant
SUMMER SEASONAL ROLES
Office Administrator
Marketing Assistant
Kitchen Hand
Culinary Guest Experience Associate
Facility & Site Associate
Room Attendant
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Join Us As An Exhibitor
At Get Ahead Of Your Future 2026
Want to inspire the next generation of Métis leaders?
We’re inviting organizations, businesses, and community partners to become interactive exhibitors at Get Ahead of Your Future—a hands-on youth exploration event that’s all about curiosity, creativity, and connection.
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This isn’t a hiring fair. It’s a chance to show youth what’s possible.
Why exhibit?
• Inspire Métis Youth through hands-on, engaging activities
• Showcase Your Field – Trades, tech, arts, health, entrepreneurship & more
• Build Community Connections that support youth pathways
• No Fee to Exhibit – Invest in creativity, not registration costs
Event Highlights:
• Artistic Reflection Hub
• Innovation & Discovery Zone
• Youth Voices Stage
• Career Pathways Experiences
Event Dates (10 a.m –3 p.m.):
• March 16 – Fort McMurray
• March 18 – Red Deer
• March 23 – Grande Prairie
• March 25 – Whitecourt
Participate in one event—or all four!
DM us to learn how to get involved as an exhibitor and check out the event site.
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Warm Up Your Social Game With Rupertsland Institute And Jelly Academy
Ignite your digital skills with Rupertsland Institute and Jelly Academy ONLINE.
Our digital skills workshop combines the worlds of social media influencing and video game design to give YOU the best of both worlds
What's involved? Four days of exposure to worlds of social media brand building and independent game design Days One and Two are centered on building your digital brand and Days Three and Four are all about video game design.
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Learn from industry experts who ignite their business.
Participants will need a reliable internet connection to complete this workshop.
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Métis 2SLGBTQQIA+
Charity Drag Show Disco Dance Party
Are you ready to dance the night away?
After the 2SLGBTQQIA+ Drag Show, we'll be opening up the dance floor to all guests with a playlist made to groove with input from participants.
The dance party will start at 10 p.m. following the show and will have late night bites, music to move to, and of course, disco balls to light the night.
| | Your ticket to the show includes an all access pass to dance, snap selfies and photos, and meet the team from behind the scenes on the floor. | | | |
Join The OMSA For
A Cultural Experience
The Otipemisiwak Métis Student and Alumni Association (OMSA) team are heading out to the lake with the Otipemisiwak Métis Government Harvesting Department and we're looking to bring Otipemisiwak Métis Student and Alumni with us.
This cultural experience will take place on Pigeon Lake and participants can choose which day to take part in.
We'll be on the ice on Saturday,
March 21 and Sunday, March 22. Each day will have a separate cohort
of students and alumni.
| | Participants will receive everything they need to fish,
and will get to take it home as well. | | | | |
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