Governance - Fire Keepers Council
Rick (Zonadah) Meilleur - President
A proud Metis who has over 30 years experience in fighting for Metis rights and promoting Indigeonous culture. A Knowledge Gifter who will never stop promoting the importance of the Metis history in the French River and Nipissing areas. A member of the Bear Clan.
Leonard Cook - Elder
He is a retired miner from Vale mining company . As an elder and a trapper for the last 38 years, he is proud to carry on his ancestors’ traditions as well as passing it on to the next generations.
Dr. Mélanie-Rose Frappier, MD - Women’s Representative
Dr. Melanie-Rose Frappier completed her doctorate of medicine from the Northern Ontario School of Medicine and is currently a psychiatry resident at the North Bay Regional Health Centre. In 2018, she also graduated from Laurentian University with a bachelor’s degree in Indigenous Studies. From advocating for Indigenous rights at a provincial and national level, to hosting conferences and workshops regarding Indigenous history and culture, and now doing research into Indigenous Mental Health, Melanie-Rose has a passion for advocacy and Indigenous healing.
Larry Prevost - Treasurer
Born in Alban, he is a proud Metis who has practiced his Metis way of life for over 65 years in the Nipissing area and continues sharing his wisdom with his family. A master electrician , he has been involved in numerous negotiations with the electrician’s union. He has been treasurer for different organizations over the years.
Mathieu Simon - Youth Representative
Student at Cambrian College with the goal to become a licensed carpenter. He is a part-time writer who aims to provide financial literacy for students in Canada. Proud of his heritage and obsessed with finding the truth, his education path has led him through many institutions. He hopes to be a mentor to the youth in the community as they navigate their learning opportunities.
Marc Hébert - Secretary
A Registered Professional Forester with over 32 years experience in teaching Forestry and Fish & Wildlife Management at Collège Boréal. A proud Metis from the St. Charles area, reconnecting to his Metis culture and practices, and promoting educational funding and opportunities for our young people.
Daniel Prevost - Chair Person
A Métis father who challenges the status quo and the western worldview. A strong believer in the importance of the resurgence of our indigenous traditions, knowledge sharing, healing practices, ethics and values. Very privileged to be working among such remarkable beings who are so dedicated in serving our Métis community.