Clarke Shecapio is an experienced executive leader from Waskaganish, with a strong record of guiding Cree organizations through strategic growth, operational improvement, and community‑driven development. His career spans senior roles in public administration, project management, and nation‑to‑nation relations, where he has consistently advanced initiatives that strengthen Cree institutions and support long‑term economic opportunity.

He currently serves as Chief Executive Officer of the Cree Development Corporation, overseeing corporate strategy, organizational performance, and development priorities that contribute to the economic advancement of Eeyou Istchee. His leadership emphasizes sound governance, effective stakeholder engagement, and the creation of partnerships that align with community values and aspirations. Prior to this role, he held senior positions including Executive Director of the Cree Trappers Association, where he led organizational planning, new initiatives, and community outreach across the region.

From 2020 to 2023, Clarke served as Chief of the Cree Nation of Waskaganish, where he strengthened intergovernmental relationships, negotiated key agreements, and supported economic and community development projects. He has contributed to several regional governance bodies and played a role in advancing major initiatives related to land use, resource development, and community‑based infrastructure. He holds a Graduate Certificate in Project Management from Algonquin College and completed studies in Administration at UQAT.

Thomas Washipabano is a seasoned administrator with extensive experience in financial management, operations, and organizational leadership within Cree institutions. He currently serves as Chief Financial Officer of the Cree Development Corporation, a role he assumed in March 2024. His work focuses on financial stewardship, corporate planning, and ensuring that the organization’s systems and processes support long‑term development priorities across Eeyou Istchee.

Before joining the Cree Development Corporation, Thomas spent a decade as Director General of Operations for the Cree Nation of Chisasibi, where he oversaw all administrative and operational functions, including budgeting, labour relations, procurement, and interdepartmental coordination. His earlier experience in the telecommunications sector and his academic background in business administration, accounting, and finance further strengthen his capacity to guide complex organizations and support sound governance.

James Napash is an executive and governance professional who has supported senior leadership within the Cree School Board and the Cree Board of Health and Social Services of James Bay. Born and raised in Chisasibi, Quebec, he is trilingual in Cree, English, and French.

James currently serves as Office Coordinator at the Cree Development Corporation, where he provides senior-level administrative, strategic, and operational support to the President and Chief Executive Officer and the Chief Financial Officer. His responsibilities include coordinating executive functions, preparing governance and corporate documentation, and supporting board and committee activities.

James previously served as Executive Administrative Officer to the Chairperson of the Cree School Board, where he supported governance processes, executive decision-making, and board-level coordination.

Prior to this, he served at the Cree Board of Health and Social Services of James Bay as Administrative Processes Specialist within Corporate Services, contributing to administrative systems development, governance documentation for the Board of Directors and its committees, and departmental planning and reporting. In this role, he also provided executive support to the Chairperson and Executive Director.

James completed Corporate Secretary training at Algonquin College and has pursued additional education at Fleming College and McGill University. Grounded in his Cree roots and community of Chisasibi, he brings professionalism, discretion, and a strong commitment to effective governance and organizational collaboration.

Abel Bosum is a respected Cree leader known for his central role in advancing the political and territorial rights of Eeyou Istchee. Raised in a family of eleven and shaped by the impacts of forced relocations and the residential school system, he committed early in life to defending Cree rights and strengthening Cree governance. He joined the Grand Council of the Crees in 1978 and, in 1984, became Chief of Oujé‑Bougoumou, where he led the complete reconstruction of the community—an internationally recognized project grounded in Cree values and innovative planning.

From 1999 to 2017, he served as the Cree Nation’s Chief Negotiator with the Government of Québec, contributing to landmark agreements such as the Agreement Concerning a New Relationship and the Cree Nation Governance Agreement. Elected Grand Chief in 2017, he also served as President of the Eeyou Istchee James Bay Regional Government until 2021, focusing on institutional strengthening, cultural revitalization, and youth capacity building. His contributions have been recognized with several honours, including the National Aboriginal Achievement Award, an honorary doctorate from Bishop’s University, and appointment as a Member of the Order of Canada.

Christina Gilpin is a Cree leader recognized for her experience in governance, administration, and community development. As Chief of the Cree Nation of Wemindji from 2017 to 2025, she led Council operations, guided community consultations, and worked closely with local groups to establish priorities in education, economic development, social services, youth programming, and elder support. She also maintained strong relationships with government partners and industry stakeholders.

Before serving as Chief, she was Executive Director of the Tawich Development Corporation, where she oversaw strategic plan implementation and the performance of corporate subsidiaries. She previously spent more than a decade with the Cree Nation Government as an employment officer and career advisor. Her career also includes service on the Cree Nation Government Executive Committee and as a Councillor for Wemindji, reflecting a long-standing commitment to community well‑being and Cree self‑determination.

Abraham Jolly is a Cree leader from Waskaganish whose career has been dedicated to education and the well‑being of Eeyou Istchee. A survivor of the residential school system, he devoted his professional life to strengthening Cree education and supporting future generations. He served as Deputy Director General of the Cree School Board from 1999 to 2005 and as Director General from 2006 to 2021. Under his leadership, the Cree education system reinforced its foundations, expanded Cree language and cultural programming, and undertook major modernization of its structures and services.

Now retired and living in Mistissini, he continues to share his experience and personal journey, particularly as a survivor and advocate for Cree youth. His lifelong commitment to education, cultural revitalization, and community empowerment continues to inspire leaders and students across Eeyou Istchee.

Raymond Jolly is an entrepreneur and community leader from Waskaganish. As President of Broadback Construction Inc., he oversees the growth, financial management, and operations of a rapidly expanding company. He is also the founder of Eeyou Istchee Lifestyle, a clothing brand rooted in Cree identity and culture.

From 2021 to 2025, he served as a Councillor for the Cree Nation of Waskaganish, contributing to economic development initiatives and participating in the governance of Nanaakatheth Corporation. Earlier in his career, he coordinated major youth programs that supported employment opportunities for more than 100 young people. With training in law and project management, he is recognized for his strengths in financial management, governance, and community‑driven economic development.

Kayleigh Spencer is a Cree engineer from Mistissini and a graduate of McGill University in civil engineering. She has worked with the Cree Nation of Mistissini, Stantec, Cogir Immobilier, and Stornoway Diamonds, contributing to site supervision, project preparation, and field operations. She currently serves as a Project Manager in the Material Resources Department of the Cree School Board, where she supports the planning and delivery of infrastructure projects across Eeyou Istchee.

Alongside her professional work, Kayleigh has held several leadership roles, including Captain of the McGill Concrete Canoe Club, President of the Indigenous Inclusion Committee within the engineering student association, and Assistant Coach for women’s basketball at Dawson College. She also served as Miss Eeyou Eenou Nation, engaging with youth and women across communities. Her path reflects a strong commitment to excellence, capacity building, and the representation of young Indigenous professionals in technical and community‑focused fields.