24 Advancements for the Red River Métis in 2024

January 13, 2025

The National Government of the Red River Métis continues working to advance our rights and recognition as a Nation. Our Citizens, including artisans, entrepreneurs, athletes, musicians, students, educators, and community trailblazers, continue to flourish in many fields. Here are 24 outstanding achievements made by Red River Métis Citizens in 2024, showcasing the abundance of Red River Métis representation.

24. Kerri Einarson makes a difference on and off the ice

_{Red River Métis athlete Kerri Einarson taught Youth how to curl through an MMF workshop held in January.}

In 2024, Red River Métis athlete Kerri Einarson had an incredible year on and off the ice! Her curling team ended their season with three semifinal finishes and one quarterfinal appearance in the Grand Slam curling circuit. At the 2024 Scotties Tournament of Hearts, Team Einarson managed a 7-1 record through the round-robin to qualify for the championship round.

Off the ice, Einarson taught Red River Métis Youth how to curl through a workshop held in January and lent her expertise to the 2024 Red River Métis Business Expo, where she spoke as a panellist about her journey as a Red River Métis Citizen, curler, and entrepreneur.

23. Citizen nabs Governor General's Academic Medal

_{Renelle Saurette earned the Governor General's Academic Medal in 2024 for her academic excellence.}

Upon graduation from École/Collège régional Gabrielle-Roy in 2024, Renelle Saurette received the prestigious Governor General's Academic Medal. Recipients of the award exhibit outstanding scholastic excellence and are celebrated for their academic achievements. Saurette humbly accepted this award and acknowledged the hard work of her peers, who she felt were just as academically strong. In addition to this award, the Red River Métis graduate served as one of her school's valedictorians. Her next steps in her academic pursuits include attending the Université de Saint-Boniface, with hopes of eventually entering the French medical school offered by the University of Ottawa.

22. Holmes carves her way into 24 advancements

_{Red River Métis Citizen De-ann Holmes prides herself on being the only Red River Métis woman chainsaw carver in Manitoba.}

As the only Red River Métis woman chainsaw artist in Manitoba, De-Ann Holmes is carving her way to success through her artistry and entrepreneurial spirit. Starting with hand-carved ducks for decorative and decoy purposes, Holmes now works on large-scale projects that truly showcase her talents. Her love for community is apparent through her workshops and environmentally sustainable carving practices. When not creating art, she is an active member of Infinity Women Secretariat, where she has gained confidence and connection by networking with other successful Red River Métis women entrepreneurs.

21. Laura Forsythe launches new book

_{Red River Métis scholar Laura Forsythe has released her new book Around the Kitchen Table: Métis Aunties' Scholarship in 2024.}

Red River Métis scholar Laura Forsythe continued to show her academic prowess through her writing and editorial contributions to the book: Around the Kitchen Table: Métis Aunties' Scholarship. The book, which launched in April 2024, is a collection of works that puts Red River Métis women and their experiences at the forefront of conversations spanning topics like social sciences, education, history, health care, governance, and more. Contributors of the book also had the chance to explore topics directly relating with Indigeneity, such as spirituality, material culture, colonialism, land-based education, sexuality, language, and representation. Forsythe hosted a book launch at McNally Robinson, a staple for any Manitoba author looking to release their works to the world!

20. Red River Métis entrepreneur takes an ecological approach to the funeral industry

_{Entrepreneur Dwayne Till opened his new aquamation business, Tillwell, and has been offering pet aquamation services since May.}

If you haven't heard about aquamation, Red River Métis entrepreneur Dwayne Till is the guy to tell you about it. Launching his business in 2024, Tillwell became the first business in Manitoba to receive municipal and provincial approval to offer aquamation, a concept he learned about while reading a National Geographic magazine. This process uses 95 per cent water and 5 per cent salt to dissolve human remains with no fossil fuels and minimal emissions, offering a greener alternative to traditional cremation and burial. We look forward to seeing what this Red River Métis entrepreneur does next in the upcoming year!

19. Red River Métis Citizens score big at Manitoba Country Music Awards

_{It was a big year for four Red River Métis musicians who received honours at Manitoba Country Music Awards.}

Red River Métis musicians made their presence known at the 2024 Manitoba Country Music Awards, with some of our most celebrated artists sweeping multiple categories. Congratulations to Red River Métis award winners:

• Catie St. Germain, recipient of the NCI FM Indigenous Country Music Award, Indigenous Country Music Artist of the Year, and Interactive Artist, Duo, or Group of the Year, and Single of The Year.
• Michael Audette and Troy Flamand were recognized for their remarkable contributions to the All-Star Band of the Year, with Audette excelling in the fiddle, while Flamand was honoured for his guitar mastery.
• Mitchell Makoons, recipient of the Emerging Artist of the Year award.

In addition to our winners, Red River Métis Citizens Brandi Vezina, Cowboy Carl Thomas, Jesse Bandura, Brad Moggie, and others were nominated for their achievements in music. All in all, these achievements showcase the immense talent and cultural pride that the Red River Métis bring to the Manitoba music scene.

18. Métis Child, Family and Community Services dedicates rooms to Citizens

_{In 2024, Métis Child, Family and Community Services honoured long-time Minister Judy Mayer and former board chair Loretta Boulard by dedicating two newly named family rooms at their Winnipeg office.}

In celebration of the long-time work done by Minister Judy Mayer and former Métis Child, Family and Community Services (MCFCS) board chair, Loretta Boulard, two of the newest family rooms at the MCFCS Winnipeg office were named in their honour. Minister Mayer served as the Minister of Child and Family Services for 12 years and was recognized for her significant contributions to the agency's growth. Boulard, who passed away in 2018, was celebrated for her dedication as a board member from 2013 to 2016. A ceremony was held to celebrate the lasting impact of both women's work on the agency, which remains committed to ensuring the well-being of Red River Métis children and families.

17. Kyra De La Ronde awarded prestigious Coronation Medal

_{Kyra De la Ronde received the King Charles III's Coronation Medal at a ceremony in Quebec in September.}

2024 was an exceptional year for Red River Métis Youth Kyra De La Ronde, who was awarded the prestigious King Charles III's Coronation Medal in September. This award recognized her significant contributions to reconciliation and advocacy for Red River Métis Youth. As one of the 100 Canadians selected by Governor General Mary Simon, De La Ronde received the award at a ceremony held in Quebec. Her work in the Red River Métis Government continues to evolve with her position as the MMF's Beyond Borders Coordinator, which helps connect Citizens outside of the Homeland with their Government and the resources offered to them. De La Ronde's hard work was well celebrated, and noted her award was not just for herself, but for her family, the Red River Métis community, and the Youth she represents.

16. 16. Maxx Hamelin represents Canada at ball hockey championships

_{Maxx Hamelin participated in the U18 World Junior Men's Ball Hockey Championships in Zilina, Slovakia, scoring three goals and one assist.}

Seventeen-year-old Maxx Hamelin showed the world what a Red River Métis athlete is made of this past year. The athlete iced out his competition, helping Team Canada win gold at the U18 World Junior Men's Ball Hockey Championships in Zilina, Slovakia, where he scored three goals and one assist. He also spent 2024 training for his season with the Virden Oil Capitals, where he was drafted 22^nd overall for the Manitoba Junior Hockey League. Hamelin has also participated in the National Aboriginal Hockey Championships and credits the Manitoba Métis Federation for supporting his journey through their Believe Elite Athletic & Artistic Support Program.

15. Citizen gives back through Muay Thai

_{Red River Métis Citizen Ashley Viner and her husband recently opened Gorilla Muay Thai in Winnipeg, aiming to inspire inner-city youth and expand the sport's recognition in the province.}

Ashley Viner has always understood the benefits of exercise, but she never thought it would lead to her winning numerous world championships. As a Muay Thai athlete, Viner has claimed multiple world championship titles, as a North American champion and a two-time Thai Boxing Association world champion. Since the Red River Métis athlete first started training eight years ago, her passion for the sport quickly transformed into success. Taking her passions to the next level, Viner and her husband recently opened Gorilla Muay Thai in Winnipeg, aiming to inspire inner-city youth through Muay Thai and expand the sport's recognition in the province.

14. Red River Métis author tackles identity fraud

_{Red River Métis author, educator, and editor Katherena Vermette debuted her novel Real Ones in 2024.}

Katherena Vermette was ready to tackle the topic of Indigenous identity fraud with her latest novel, Real Ones. Her writing addresses the emotional and social impact of false claims of heritage while exploring a new, innovative writing style, which incorporates phone call-based dialogue and humour. Adopting this style has taken a unique approach to addressing topics like trauma, healing, and the complexities of Red River Métis identity. As she continues to rock the literary world, Vermette also acts as senior editor at Simon & Schuster Canada, with the hope of amplifying diverse voices and ensuring underrepresented stories reach wider audiences.

13. Red River Métis athlete competes in Paralympic Trials

_{Maxine Lavitt competed in five events at the 2024 Paralympic Trials and made the finals in each.}

Red River Métis Citizen Maxine Lavitt dove into the 2024 Paralympic Trials, where she made the finals for five different events. The athlete has a visual impairment and swims in Class 13, for those with greater vision than classes 11 and 12 but less than 20 degrees of vision. In addition to her successes in the Paralympic Trials, Lavitt swims for the University of Manitoba swim team and balances a very successful academic career. The Red River Métis swimmer is supported by the MMF's Post-Secondary Education Support Program, which aims to improve the education of Red River Métis students by providing them with access to educational opportunities at the post-secondary level. She hopes to represent Canada on the international stage - while inspiring future Red River Métis athletes along the way.

12. Red River Métis pilot soars to new heights

_{Max St. Cyr made history as the first Red River Métis graduate of the Atik Mason Indigenous Pilot Pathway Program this year.}

Max St. Cyr made history as the first Red River Métis graduate of the Atik Mason Indigenous Pilot Pathway Program in 2024. The Pathway helps Indigenous community members to train as professional pilots by covering the tuition for their commercial pilot licenses. It was a life-changing opportunity for St. Cyr, allowing him to focus on his training without the financial burden. His dedication paid off when he was offered a pilot position at Perimeter Aviation after graduation. The Citizen is working toward his goal of becoming a captain, continuing his growth in the aviation industry.

11. Opera singer wins prestigious award

_{The opera singer is a graduate of the University of Manitoba's Bachelor of Music program and is continuing to pursue her Master of Music in Opera Performance at Montclair State University.}

As a rising opera star, Camryn Dewar continued to impress the world with her natural and academic talent. In 2024, the Red River Métis opera singer was awarded the prestigious 2024-2025 Fulbright Canada Student Award, a $25,000 scholarship for Canadian students pursuing their studies in the United States. After graduating from the University of Manitoba's Bachelor of Music program, Dewar is working towards a Master of Music in Opera Performance at Montclair State University. The performer hopes to create an inclusive space that fosters dialogue and promotes healing within the world of opera by putting a spotlight on Indigenous stories.

10. Red River Métis Citizen at the helm of University of Manitoba

_{In 2024, Red River Métis Citizen Angie Bruce began her role as the University of Manitoba's Vice President (Indigenous).}

2024 was a year of new beginnings for Angie Bruce, a Red River Métis Citizen who began her role as the University of Manitoba's Vice President (Indigenous). Through her academic pursuits, Bruce has addressed the topic of Indigeneity and academia and what can be improved so Indigenous Youth can navigate the academic realm in a way that is culturally sensitive and understanding. Before her new position, the vice president worked at the Aboriginal Healing Foundation and has engaged with the MMF throughout her entire career. Bruce advocates for the needs of Red River Métis students through her continued support of the MMF's Métis Inclusion Coordinators at major universities, such as the University of Manitoba, and the endorsement of implementing Indigenous perspectives in university curriculums.

9. Red River Métis survivor shares journey of reconnection and community

_{Red River Métis author Andrea Currie released her debut book: Finding Otipemisiwak: The People Who Own Themselves.}

As a Sixties Scoop survivor, Andrea Currie brings first-hand experiences to her debut book, Finding Otipemisiwak: The People Who Own Themselves. Her work explores the complexities of reconnection and healing through various writing styles, understanding that Indigenous storytelling often doesn't align with traditional, colonial ways of storytelling. The Red River Métis author, therapist, and activist explores topics like the trauma of cultural loss, the vulnerability of Indigenous children in the child welfare system, and the complex path to rediscovering one's identity, a concept that Currie herself has been navigating for the last 30 years. In addition to her written work, the Red River Métis author has worked as a community-based therapist within Indigenous communities, where she has helped numerous individuals who have been impacted by colonization move towards healing.

8. Entrepreneurs dazzle at Red River Métis Business Excellence Awards Gala

_{In May, the Red River Métis Business Development Corporation celebrated the achievements and growth of Red River Métis entrepreneurs across the Homeland at its first annual Red River Métis Business Excellence Awards Gala.}

The Red River Métis have always held an entrepreneurial spirit, and it only continues to grow as time goes on. In recognition of the continued expansion of Red River Métis businesses across the Homeland, the MMF, as well as affiliate Red River Métis Business Development Corporation, held their first Red River Métis Business Excellence Awards Gala. The event brought together hundreds of business owners, family members, and community members to honour the determination and drive of our entrepreneurs within the Red River Métis community.

Alongside the event, a prestigious award ceremony was held to honour the esteemed leaders in our business community. Congratulations to our winners:

Traditional Economies Award: CM Yard Care & Firewood, Curtis Mayer

Young Entrepreneurs Award: CatEyeStrophic Inc., Kelsey Gillespie

Sustainable Economy Award: Anne Mulaire, Andréanne Dandeneau

Infinity Women Secretariat Spokeswoman's Award: Métis Branded, Casandra Woolever

President's Lifetime Achievement Award: Robert Penwarden

7. Red River Métis actor coming to a TV near you

_{Red River Métis actor Victoria Gwendoline starred in the new TV show Don't Even, a new comedy series on Crave.}

Red River Métis actor Victoria Gwendoline saw a lot of success in 2024, with the launch of new television series, Don't Even. Set in Winnipeg in the late '90s, the story follows two teens and the pressures they face transitioning out of high school and into the "real world." Considered a triple threat, Gwendoline's talent is apparent in her acting, singing, and artistry. The artist uses her creativity as a way of reconnecting with her Red River Métis roots. The Red River Métis performer hopes to uplift other Indigenous artists and encourages aspiring artists to embrace vulnerability, keep pushing through challenges, and make art for themselves.

6. MMF partners with Lac du Bonnet for female hockey change room

_{The Lac du Bonnet Arena celebrated the completion of the construction of a dedicated female dressing room for its arena.}

It was all smiles in 2024 for the Lac du Bonnet Arena as they celebrated the completion of building a dedicated female dressing room. The project was driven by Red River Métis Citizens on the Lac du Bonnet Rats Hockey Club who fundraised to make the new dressing room a reality. The MMF contributed $27,000 to complete the project. The space provides a much-needed area for women and girls to change and feel comfortable while participating in the town's vibrant hockey culture. The project reflects the MMF's ongoing commitment to supporting women in sports and fostering a welcoming environment for all athletes.

5. Iconic Red River Métis musician celebrated for his achievements in music

_{In June, Red River Métis icon Ray St. Germain was honoured with the renaming of St. Michael Road to Big Sky Country Way, a tribute to his national television show.}

Ray St. Germain, a legendary Red River Métis musician and cultural advocate, was honoured for his musical achievements through the renaming of his childhood street, St. Michael Road, to Big Sky Country Way. The name was chosen to commemorate his show on national television which aired for 13 years on Global TV. The Red River Métis artist had a beautiful career that spanned six decades, where he hosted over 600 shows, mentored countless artists, and created a platform for Indigenous voices through programs like Métis Hour x2. During the June 7 ceremony, the 83-year-old performed an impromptu rendition of Elvis Presley's song, "It's Now or Never," in the singer's last public performance before his passing on June 25.

4. Elders Charlotte Nolin and Barbara Bruce lead the march for Red River Métis pride

_{The MMF proudly participated in this year's Winnipeg Pride Festival, showcasing its commitment to supporting the 2SLGBTQIA+ community.}

The MMF proudly participated in the 2024 Winnipeg Pride Festival, showcasing its commitment to supporting the 2SLGBTQIA+ community. Elder Barbara Bruce and Elder Charlotte Nolin served as Pride Parade Grand Marshals. During speeches, the pair talked about personal journeys of coming out and their pride in being advocates for 2SLGBTQIA+ rights. MMF President David Chartrand met with Pride Winnipeg organizers and the Lii Michif Otipemisiwak 2SLGBTQIA+ and Allies Local, emphasizing the MMF's role as the first Indigenous government in Canada to establish two 2SLGBTQIA+ community Locals, highlighting the strength and inclusivity of the Red River Métis.

3. Red River Métis man switched at birth receives MMF Citizenship

_{The MMF warmly welcomed Edward Ambrose as a Red River Métis Citizen in 2024.}

In 2024, the Red River Métis community welcomed home Edward Ambrose after a heartbreaking discovery that he had been switched at birth with another child, Richard Beauvais, in a rural Manitoba hospital. Ambrose, now 68, expressed deep gratitude for reconnecting with his Red River Métis roots. President Chartrand highlighted the significance of Ambrose's Citizenship, acknowledging the historical injustices many Red River Métis Citizens, like Ambrose, have faced.

2. Red River Métis musician nominated for Juno Award

_{The Red River Ramblers received a Juno Award nomination in the Traditional Indigenous Artist of the Year category for their album Reverie.}

Red River Métis Beyond Borders Citizen Douglas Sinclair and his band, The Red River Ramblers, had an eventful 2024 as they received a Juno Award nomination in the Traditional Indigenous Artist of the Year category. Sinclair first started The Red River Ramblers in 2019, and their name pays homage to the musician's Red River Métis roots. The musician's family has a long history of musicianship, and he is proud to represent his Red River Métis heritage through music. Their album Reverie blends traditional Red River Métis fiddling with original songs, celebrating the rich history of the Red River Métis.

1. President Chartrand secures modern-day Treaty for Red River Métis

_{President Chartrand was joined by MMF Chief of Staff Al Benoit, Minister of Crown-Indigenous Relations, the Honourable Gary Anandasangaree, and St. Boniface - St. Vital M.P. the Honourable Dan Vandal to sign the Treaty.}

2024 was monumental for President Chartrand as he came one step closer to one of his goals in leading the National Government of the Red River Métis, as he finally put the pen-to-paper on the Red River Métis Self-Government Recognition and Implementation Treaty, a document reaffirming our right to self-government and self-determination, and recognizes us as the one true government of the Red River Métis.

President Chartrand was joined by MMF Chief of Staff Al Benoit, Minister of Crown-Indigenous Relations, the Honourable Gary Anandasangaree, and St. Boniface - St. Vital M.P. the Honourable Dan Vandal to sign the Treaty at 333 Main Street, one of the MMF's newly acquired properties. The cover of the Treaty was created by renowned Red River Métis Master Beader Jennine Krauchi and featured iconic Red River Métis symbolism. Artist JD Hawk's series of paintings, capturing the essence of the spirit of the Treaty Consultations and Extraordinary General Assembly were also proudly on display.

 

---

View More