Welcome
About Waasmoowin
Did you know? Waasmoowin translates to “lightning” in Anishinaabemowin.
Representing eight First Nations with a unified voice, from consultation to governance, stewardship to opportunity.
Our shared
community voice
Waasmoowin Opportunities and Consultation Council (WOCC) is a not-for-profit organization representing eight First Nations working together to make sure our values, rights and concerns are heard.
WOCC supports engagement between the participating First Nations, project proponents, government agencies, and other stakeholders. Through collaboration and collective decision-making, WOCC helps ensure that Indigenous rights, environmental stewardship, community priorities, and economic opportunities are meaningfully considered throughout project planning and development.
By working together, our Nations strengthen their collective voice while ensuring each community's interests remain at the forefront of decision-making.
WOCC works on behalf of participating Nations to:
Protect lands, waters, cultural values, and treaty rights
Support environmental and archaeological monitoring
Lead consultation and community engagement activities
Share project information with communities
Advance employment, training, and contracting opportunities
Represent and advocate for community interests throughout project development
"For generations, our people have fought for the opportunity to be true partners in the development that happens on our lands."
WOCC and Waasmoowin GP:
What's the Difference?
Focuses on consultation, engagement, environmental stewardship, and community opportunities.
Manages the First Nations' ownership interest in the transmission project and oversees long-term economic benefits generated through that ownership.
Together, the two organizations help ensure the projects creates both meaningful participation today and lasting benefits for future generations.
The values
that shape
how we work
The Waasmoowin Opportunities and Consultation Council (WOCC) is guided by the shared values and priorities of its member Nations. These principles help shape how we work together, engage with partners, and support opportunities for our communities.
Respect for Rights and Traditional Knowledge
We recognize and uphold the rights, knowledge, and teachings of our Nations. Decisions are informed by the values, experiences, and perspectives of our communities.
Stewardship of Lands and Waters
We are committed to protecting the lands, waters, environment, and cultural resources that sustain our communities today and for future generations.
Partnership and Collaboration
We believe meaningful outcomes are achieved through respectful relationships, open dialogue, and collaboration among Nations, project partners, and stakeholders.
Transparency and Accountability
We are committed to sharing information openly, engaging communities throughout the process, and making decisions in a manner that reflects our collective responsibilities.
Community Benefits and Opportunity
We work to advance employment, training, business, and economic development opportunities that create lasting benefits for our member Nations.
Planning for Future Generations
Our work is guided by a long-term perspective, ensuring decisions made today contribute to the well-being and prosperity of future generations.
Working together
toward shared goals
WOCC works collaboratively with a range of partners to support meaningful consultation, environmental stewardship, community engagement, and economic opportunities for participating First Nations.
We remain committed to working together in unity to create long-term benefits for our communities and future generations.
Project Partner & Power Infrastructure
Hydro One is the project partner responsible for developing the Northeast Power Line and North Shore Link transmission projects. Together with participating First Nations, Hydro One is advancing infrastructure that supports Ontario's growing electricity needs.
In 2022, Hydro One introduced its 50-50 First Nation Equity Partnership Model, providing First Nations with the opportunity to hold an equal ownership interest in new large-scale transmission projects valued at more than $100 million.
Partnership opportunities include
Equity ownership and long-term revenue generation
Employment and workforce development
Skills training and capacity building
Contracting and procurement opportunities
Ongoing engagement throughout project planning and development
How we lead together
WOCC's governance structure is designed to ensure community voices, cultural knowledge, and strategic decision-making are reflected throughout its work.
Council of Elders
The Council of Elders provides guidance rooted in traditional knowledge, cultural teachings, and community values. Their perspectives help ensure that WOCC's work remains grounded in the priorities and interests of future generations.
Meet the EldersBoard of Directors
The Board of Directors provides strategic leadership and oversight for WOCC. Board members represent participating Nations and are responsible for guiding organizational priorities, decision-making, and accountability.
Meet the BoardProject Team
The Project Team is responsible for the day-to-day operations of WOCC, including community engagement, communications, consultation activities, environmental coordination, and the advancement of employment, training, and economic opportunities.
Meet the TeamWisdom rooted
in tradition
The Council of Elders is a vital part of Waasmoowin's leadership, providing wisdom and guidance through their extensive knowledge and experiences.
The Council of Elders will support Waasmoowin throughout project implementation and ensure their cultural guidance and advice is integrated throughout the project's review and decision-making processes.
Nelson Toulouse
Elder
Tony Tyson
Elder
Robert Simon Sr.
Elder
Mary Ann Giguere
Elder
Ron McGregor
Elder
Annie Austin
Elder
Dolores Naponse
Elder
Jeff Naponse
Elder
Isabelle Meawasige
Elder
Christina Agawa
Elder
Strategic
leadership for
all Nations
The Board of Directors provides strategic leadership and oversight for WOCC. The Board is composed of the Chiefs of the eight participating First Nations, ensuring each Nation has a voice in guiding the organization's priorities, decision-making, and long-term direction.
Working collaboratively, the Board helps ensure WOCC's activities reflect the shared interests of member Nations while advancing opportunities, protecting community priorities, and supporting informed decision-making throughout project development.
Board composition
Wahnapitae First Nation – Chief Larry Roque
Atikameksheng Anishnawbek – Councillor Vance Nootchtai
Whitefish River First Nation – Chief Rodney Nahwegahbow Secretary
Sagamok Anishnawbek – Chief Angus Toulouse Treasurer
Serpent River First Nation – Councillor Justin Urquart
Mississaugi First Nation – Chief Brent Niganobe Chairperson/President
Thessalon First Nation – Councillor Mary-Ann Giguere
Batchewana First Nation – Chief Mark McCoy
The people
behind the work
The Project Team is responsible for the day-to-day operations of WOCC, including community engagement, communications, consultation activities, environmental coordination, and the advancement of employment, training, and economic opportunities.
Project Manager
Nishin Meawasige
Administrative Lead
Leslie Manitowabi-Recollet
Employment & Training Lead
Chris Johnsen
Financial Advisor
Ryan McLeod
Senior Strategic Advisor