In the heart of Thompson, Manitoba—the Hub of the North—a gathering of environmental knowledge took place during the first week of February 2025.

The Northern Braiding Environmental Knowledge (NBEK) workshop was held at the Ma-Mow-We-Tak Friendship Centre, creating a hub of learning, collaboration, and cultural celebration. Over the next few days, the Ma-Mow-We-Tak Friendship Centre became a symbol of the workshop’s core mission: Working together, sharing ideas, and celebrating the rich cultural heritage of Northern Manitoba.

The three-day event, organized by CIER and hosted by Indigenous Services Canada (ISC), brought together an array of participants from across northern Manitoba. The workshop saw the convergence of nearly 40 representatives, including industry experts, Indigenous and non-Indigenous leaders, members of northern First Nation communities, and public servants from federal departments.

The workshop drew leadership from across the region, including Grand Chief Walter Wastesicoot (Keewatin Tribal Council), Mayor Colleen Smook (Thompson), and respected Elder Marie Ballantyne (Nisichawaytasihk Cree Nation). Representatives from various organizations enriched the dialogue, including the Manitoba Environmental Industries Association (MEIA), Health Canada, and the Assembly of Manitoba Chiefs.

Culture stood at the heart of the gathering, with powerful performances by the Wapikeewatin Singers and Women of White Wolf drumming groups. A local artist from Tataskweyak added another layer of cultural richness, sharing their crafts and personal journey as an artisan.

Each day of the workshop addressed environmental challenges and opportunities. Day one immersed participants in environmental programs, solid waste management, waste diversion, and recycling initiatives. With presentations from ISC, Green Action Centre, MEIA, and St. Theresa Point First Nation’s waste management coordinator, participants shared their environmental experiences and gained valuable insights into ISC’s environmental programs.

The second day proved hands-on training, with Absolute Petroleum leading practical training sessions on contaminated sites, fuel handling, and spill response protocols. Each participating community received their own spill kit, and the training included case studies from St. Theresa Point. Participants learned critical emergency management procedures, including a spill reporting number for incidents involving more than 20 litres (1-855-944-4888).

The final day’s discussions turned to clean energy opportunities in Manitoba, featuring inspiring success stories of community-led energy efficiency initiatives. Presentations were delivered by Indigenous Clean Energy, Efficiency Manitoba, Manitoba Indigenous Clean Energy Initiative, and Manitoba Hydro. Indigenous Clean Energy shared success stories and information about funding programs, while the Manitoba Clean Energy Initiative hosted a “Conversation Café” where participants could discuss current issues and opportunities in their own home communities.

The success of NBEK 2025 was most evident in the strengthened bonds between communities, the celebration of Indigenous culture, and the collective commitment to environmental stewardship.