Being nominated for the 2024 Premier’s Awards was an incredible honor and one of the most humbling experiences of my career so far. The awards celebrate alumni from Ontario's public colleges who are making a meaningful difference in their communities, and to be recognized among this remarkable group of individuals was truly inspiring.

This November, I had the privilege of attending the Indigenous Clean Energy (ICE) Gathering in Toronto, held from the 27th to the 29th. This annual event is more than just a conference—it’s a celebration of Indigenous-led clean energy projects that are driving real change in communities across Canada and around the world.

Last month, I had the privilege of joining my friend Dan Hendry as a co-keynote speaker at the Youth Climate Action Summit, hosted by the Frontenac Arch Biosphere at the Kingston Frontenac Library. Standing before an audience of 120 bright, passionate students from across Eastern Ontario was a moment of reflection, gratitude, and hope for the future.

In mid-September, I had the opportunity to participate in the Indigenous Clean Energy Catalyst 2020 program's second onsite week, held in Wendake First Nation, just north of Quebec City. This program brings together Indigenous energy champions from across Canada to develop their skills and knowledge in clean energy project development.

In late August 2024, we had the privilege of visiting the Fort Chipewyan community in northern Alberta, a region known for its rich Indigenous culture and its geographical isolation. The community is accessible only by ice roads in the winter or by air in the summer, which presents unique challenges for energy efficiency and infrastructure development.

The Heat Loss House (HLH) is an innovative educational tool designed to teach students and community members about energy efficiency, heat loss, and sustainable building practices. Developed by Cedric Pepelea, the HLH emerged from a desire to create a hands-on, engaging experience that could make complex energy concepts accessible to learners of all ages.

Cedric’s work with Indigenous communities in Canada began through his engineering studies and community engagement projects related to energy systems and greenhouse production. Through empowering work with organizations like Focus Forward for Indigenous Youth and Indigenous Clean Energy, working alongside Indigenous communities can contribute to meaningful and lasting positive change.