Kapawe’no First Nation – On Tuesday, 2 July 2025 Kapawe’no First Nation completed the purchase of the Northern Lakes College (NLC) Grouard Campus, with the official key exchange taking place on Monday, 7 July 2025, at the newly acquired facility, housing, and lands. This purchase addresses the need for lifelong learning, fostering continuous knowledge growth and expanding trades and commerce (business and land development). It also broadens the Nation’s land base adjacent to the Nation.
The event started off with a grand entry lead in by the Frank T. Halcrow Eagle Staff and the KFN Collegiate Eagle Staff then flags and delegates. The Muskwak Juniors proudly sang the honour song, flag song and the Muskwak Collegiate Song.
During the opening speech, Hereditary Chief Sydney L. Halcrow of Kapawe’no First Nation shared the vision, highlighting key priorities: “Our first priority is our n?hiyaw?win (Cree language) as an essential stride, followed by English, and then French.” He added, “This acquisition marks a new chapter for our nation. We are committed to fostering growth in learning through our n?hiyaw?win and nehiyawak pimachimowin (Cree way of life), along with expanding our business capabilities,” said Hereditary Chief Sydney L. Halcrow.
Chairperson Barry Sharkawi of the NLC Board was present at the official key exchange, handing over the keys to Hereditary Chief Sydney L. Halcrow. Sharkawi remarked, ‘This is an amazing step forward for Kapawe’no First Nation and NLC, providing both of us with a future focused on lifelong learning and business development.
The surrounding lands will facilitate housing and business development, strengthening the Nation’s infrastructure and economy. “This is a strategic investment in our children for their future, it’s all about our children and citizens,” Lifetime Councillor Debra Chalifoux of Kapawe’no First Nation. “This is a very historical step forward for our nation and a legacy for years to come.”, said Lifetime Councillor Pamela Halcrow of Kapawe’no First Nation.
From the Treaty 8 Territory Grand Chief Trevor Mercredi, who spoke passionately, ‘I am honoured to attend Kapawe’no First Nation’s historic move in lifelong learning and land development rooted in sovereignty and self-determination.’
Our current leadership acknowledged the pivotal roles played by the late Hereditary Chief Frank T. Halcrow, former Councillor Peter Chalifoux, and then-Councillor Sydney L. Halcrow. They were instrumental in paving the way for Kapawe’no First Nation as a sovereign nation and in recognizing the potential for future prosperity through holistic lifelong learning and business development.
Aspenleaf Energy was also on hand during the special event. The Nation is extremely proud and happy with its relationship with Aspenleaf Energy, its President Brian Gould, and Andrew Loosley, Manager of Indigenous Relations. Their attendance and continued friendship, along with their support of the KFN Educational Bare Trust Agreement, have led to the establishment of a Scholarship Fund for KFN Students in Lifelong Learning (Education). This dream has become a reality for our children through the guidance of the KFN Consultation Office under Michelle Knibb’s management and leadership.
Kiskêyihtamowin wîhkâc yahki “Knowledge Ever Increasing” embodies the harmonious blend of nêhiyawak pîmachîmowîn.
“We say kinanâskomitin to all our leadership, citizens, delegates, and guests for their greatness and support. Excellence and greatness lead to a bright nehiyawak pimachimowin and future.”
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For more information please contact Boh Kubrakovich-Kiniw, KFN Collegiate Superintendent at 204.648.6268 or email: boh@kfncollegiate.ca
www.KFN Collegiate.ca
Last modified: July 17, 2025
