Qalipu First Nation proudly congratulates Mackenzie Long on being awarded the 2024 Bernie Hanlon Memorial Scholarship.

Bernie Hanlon was a passionate advocate for Indigenous communities in Newfoundland, dedicated to breaking down barriers for Indigenous students and fostering cultural outreach and community engagement. This scholarship honors her lifelong commitment to supporting Indigenous education and cultural growth.

Mackenzie, currently pursuing a Bachelor of Social Work at Memorial University, has demonstrated a deep commitment to advocacy and cultural outreach. She played a key role in organizing Indigenous People’s Week at Grenfell Campus and served as the Speaker for the Indigenous Student Caucus, where she championed the needs of fellow Indigenous students. Additionally, as a Student Assistant at the Indigenous Resource Centre, she provided vital support to her peers, helping foster their cultural and spiritual growth—work that truly reflects Bernie’s legacy.

Mackenzie has maintained a strong dedication to academic excellence while ensuring cultural outreach remains at the heart of her efforts. We are incredibly proud of her achievements and are certain that Bernie would be as well.

Applications for the 2025 Bernie Hanlon Memorial Scholarship are now open, with a deadline of November 30. For more details, visit our website: https://qalipu.ca/education-and-training/scholarships-and-bursaries/

About the Bernie Hanlon Memorial Scholarship

Bernadette “Bernie” Hanlon dedicated her life to supporting and uplifting Indigenous people in Newfoundland, both culturally and academically. Through her many years with the Federation of Newfoundland Indians and later with Qalipu First Nation, she went above and beyond to help students achieve their educational dreams. Bernie worked tirelessly to encourage personal, cultural, and spiritual growth in those around her. This scholarship was created to continue her legacy, supporting Indigenous students in college or undergraduate studies as they pursue their own dreams.

The voting window for the St. George’s Ward By-Election is now OPEN!

You can cast your vote anytime from 8:00 a.m. NL Standard Time on March 12 to 8:00 p.m. on March 26, 2025.

To locate your voter information package:

1. Check your email (if you have an active and valid email listed in your KINU membership profile). If you don’t see it in your email inbox, check your junk folder.
2. Check your postage mail (if your KINU profile has your full, accurate, and current home address).
3. If you haven’t received your package by March 21st please contact the By-Election Helpdesk at 1-833-579-5673.

The Qalipu By-Election Helpdesk is now open to assist you. The helpdesk will operate from 12:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. daily, subject to change based on demand, until March 25, 2025. On March 26, the final voting day, the helpdesk will be available from 9:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.

For any inquiries, you can also contact the Electoral Officer, Reisha Knott, at 709-486-2427 or by email at rknott@qalipu.ca.

Corner Brook, NL — Braving the cold and blustery weather with snow flurries, community members came together on Saturday, March 8, for the first-ever Kesikewey Wutan – The Winter Village. Hosted by the Qalipu First Nation, the event celebrated land-based skills, traditional knowledge, and the deep connections to the land, plants, and animals that have sustained the community for generations.

The event was led by Annette George, Manager of Mental Wellness, with a dedicated committee of staff from various departments within QFN. Together, they played a crucial role in planning and coordinating the activities. The team worked tirelessly in the week leading up to the event, ensuring every detail was in place to create this memorable gathering.

Throughout the day, participants enjoyed Mi’kmaw music and dancing, led by Paul Pike, QFN Cultural Outreach Officer, which filled the village with lively drumbeats and song. The sensory tents, featuring furs and traditional medicines, offered a unique hands-on experience. Friendly competitions such as log-sawing contests brought energy and excitement to the event, while games of Waltes and Language Bingo encouraged attendees to engage with Mi’kmaw language and culture.

One of the event’s highlights was the live demonstrations on rabbit snaring and skinning by Western Vice Chief Charlie White. His expert knowledge and hands-on approach provided attendees with valuable insight into traditional hunting skills.

Despite the chilly winds, spirits were warm as the air was filled with the inviting aroma of moose soup, freshly cooked bannock, and fried eel. The taste of these traditional foods brought comfort to all who gathered, reinforcing the importance of sharing and community.

A special thank you to the Men’s Fellowship Circle for their contribution to the success of this event. They played a key role in setting up the tipi and Labrador tents, tending the fires throughout the day, providing smudging, supporting the sensory tent, and caring for the sacred fire. Their dedication and hard work were integral to making this event a success. We would also like to acknowledge the Corner Brook Aboriginal Women’s Association for their drumming, which added to the rich cultural atmosphere of the day.

The Kesikewey Wutan not only honored our ancestors but also highlighted the importance of preserving traditional knowledge for future generations.

The Qalipu First Nation staff, who worked tirelessly to organize the event, expressed their heartfelt thanks to the community for attending and helping make the Kesikewey Wutan a success. It was a day filled with connection, learning, and celebration. The staff are already looking forward to planning next year’s event, with hopes of making the Kesikewey Wutan an annual tradition.

Wela’liek – We thank you!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Video: Mi’kmaq Snake Dance at the Kesikewey Wutan

Qalipu First Nation member students aged 14–18 have the opportunity to join the pilgrimage to Beaumont-Hamel alongside fellow students, veterans, Legionnaires, and government officials.

To apply, submit an essay, poem, drawing, or poster showcasing what this opportunity would mean to you. The deadline to apply is March 17.

Click for full size poster.

 

Parks Canada is happy to announce the signing of a new Memorandum of Understanding with Qalipu Mi’kmaq First Nation!

Recently, representatives from Qalipu Mi’kmaq First Nation, along with Parks Canada’s Atlantic Executive Director and the Field Unit Superintendents for both the Newfoundland East Field Unit and the Western Newfoundland and Labrador Field Unit, gathered in St. John’s to formalize the agreement. This renewed partnership reinforces our ongoing commitment to collaboration and shared goals. The new agreement paves the way for exciting joint projects, and we are eager to explore the opportunities ahead!

 

 

 

 

This is an update for members regarding the Service Members Agreement reached on December 22, 2022, between the Government of Canada, Qalipu Mi’kmaq First Nation, and the Federation of Newfoundland Indians.

The Agreement establishes criteria for accepting former and current members of the Canadian Armed Forces and the Royal Canadian Mounted Police as Founding Members of Qalipu First Nation. Acceptance is based on the special place of honour these new members hold in Mi’kmaq culture due to their service as protectors of Canada and their communities.

Qalipu First Nation has been, and continues to be, committed to completing the process outlined in this Agreement as soon as possible. We are urging our partners to the Service Members Agreement to make every effort to allow for the immediate acceptance of the 583 members who have been recommended by the Enrolment Committee for approval as Founding Members of Qalipu First Nation.

Both past and current QFN Chiefs and Councils have consistently expressed their desire to complete the enrolment process as quickly as possible and have been working diligently on this matter.

“As Mi’kmaq people, we have always honoured those who dedicate their lives to protecting our communities. We remain steadfast in our commitment to seeing this process through and urge our partners to act swiftly so that the 583 recommended members can be accepted without further delay,” states QFN Chief Jenny Brake.

The next meeting of Chief and Council is scheduled for Saturday, March 22, at 10:00 a.m. in the Qalipu Community Room, 1 Church Street.

Registration is required to attend the meeting. The deadline to register is Friday, March 14, 2025, at 12:30 p.m.

Please note that delays in the meeting start time can be expected. We kindly ask for your patience and understanding.

Members wishing to attend can contact Natasha or Allyson by telephone or email:
• Natasha: 709-634-6895 | Email: nlavers@qalipu.ca
• Allyson: 709-634-5111 | Email: arobbins@qalipu.ca

Members can view the meeting’s livestream by logging in to their KINU membership profile: https://mala.qalipu.ca/ginu/login.aspx

Qalipu First Nation is seeking members-at-large to serve on the following Standing Committees, which consist of Qalipu First Nation staff, Ward Councilors, and members at large:

1. Finance and Audit Committee
   The Finance and Audit Committee is responsible for overseeing the financial health of Qalipu First Nation. This includes reviewing financial statements, ensuring proper financial controls are in place, and providing advice on budgetary planning and expenditure. The committee works to ensure accountability and transparency in financial operations and supports the development of sound fiscal policies and practices.
2. Operations Committee
   The Operations Committee oversees the implementation of operational plans, ensuring that day-to-day activities and processes are effectively aligned with the needs of the community. The committee focuses on improving operational efficiency and the successful execution of the Nation’s programs and services.
3. Health and Housing Committee
   The Health and Housing Committee is dedicated to improving the health, wellness, and housing needs of members, families, and the community. The committee advises on matters related to Non-Insured Health Benefits, Mental Wellness, Child, Youth, and Family Services, and Housing. By focusing on health and social wellness, the committee aims to address key issues affecting community members, enhance access to healthcare services, and advocate for affordable and safe housing solutions.
4. Education and Training Committee
   The Education and Training Committee focuses on supporting educational opportunities and workforce development for Qalipu First Nation members. This includes providing guidance on funding programs, scholarships, skills training, and partnerships with educational institutions to enhance lifelong learning and employment outcomes.
   
5. Environment and Natural Resources Committee
   The Environment and Natural Resources Committee is responsible for advising on matters related to the stewardship and sustainable management of natural resources. The committee works to protect traditional lands, waterways, and wildlife, ensuring that environmental practices align with Mi’kmaq values and community interests. A key focus is the preservation of the natural ecosystem for future generations, promoting sustainability and environmental responsibility.
   

Each committee meets at least four times per year to discuss and guide decisions that impact our community. This is a valuable opportunity to share your skills, knowledge, and perspectives to support the growth and success of our Nation.

Eligibility Requirements:

• Must be a member of Qalipu First Nation.
• Should possess relevant skills, experience, or interest related to the committee’s focus.
• Must have previous experience serving on a board or committee for a non-profit or government organization (preferred, but not mandatory).
• Must be available to attend quarterly meetings (virtual or in-person).
• Must undergo a Criminal Record Check.
• Must sign a Code of Confidentiality and Code of Conduct.
• Must maintain engagement and involvement between meetings by responding to committee emails and staying actively engaged in ongoing committee discussions.
• Must perform their role in an objective, fair, and impartial manner.
• Must work collaboratively with Committee members to ensure team-based and positive outcomes to advance the objectives of the Band.
• Must work on a volunteer basis, with travel and per diems provided within Qalipu Ward locations.

To Apply:
Please submit the following:

• A cover letter indicating the committee you are interested in and highlighting your relevant skills, experience, or qualifications.
• A current resume.

Deadline for Applications: March 21, 2025, at 4:00 PM
Submit Applications to: Allyson Robbins at arobbins@qalipu.ca

Please Note: Qalipu First Nation reserves the right to refuse any and all applications.

For more information, please contact Allyson Robbins at arobbins@qalipu.ca.

We encourage all interested members to apply and thank you for your willingness to support our community.

Wela’lin