Manitoba Keewatinowi Okimakanak (MKO) is pleased to recognize two long-time staff members, Freda Lepine and Roy Smith.
Grand Chief Settee with MKO staff member Freda Lepine
Freda Lepine has been with MKO for 17 years. She is currently responsible for partnerships as part of our Indigenous Skills and Employment Training Program. All of the roles that Freda has had over the years with MKO have focused on supporting women, men, and youth in building brighter futures through education, training, and employment opportunities.
MKO’s Executive Director Kelvin Lynxleg presents MKO staff member Roy Smith with a plaque in recognition of his many years of service to the North
“Freda is very well regarded for her work ethic in the North,” stated MKO’s Executive Director Kelvin Lynxleg. “She is an invaluable resource and her contributions have made a difference in the lives of those that she has supported.”
Roy Smith has dedicated 21 years to working with Northern First Nations through MKO. He is currently the Program Manager for the First Nations Justice Strategy Program, which focuses on bringing restorative justice approaches to First Nations.
“We are so pleased Roy joined us 21 years ago. He has been a support to the overall MKO team in so many ways. Roy helps ground us in ensuring that we do not forget the intent of this organization and who we are serving and advocating for,” said Ms. Lynxleg. “Roy has been a stable and well-informed staff member who keeps us informed about issues of concern when it comes to justice, the communities, and our people.”
“I commend these two wonderful individuals,” stated Grand Chief Garrison Settee. “I thank them for their 38 years of combined service to Northern First Nations and I wish them many years of good health and happiness. Our communities are blessed to have such dedicated, caring people working with MKO.”
