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Willow Lake Métis Nation CEO named to list of top innovative leaders

Last Updated Jul 26, 2022 at 9:49 am MDT

Elected Vice-President and CEO of Willow Lake Métis Nation, Justin Bourque, has been named one of the 10 Most Innovative Business Leaders to Follow in 2022 by CIO Views. He's the only Canadian entry on the list. Photo and image supplied by Willow Lake Métis Nation.

Elected Vice-president and CEO of Willow Lake Métis Nation (WLMN), Justin Bourque, has been named one of the 10 Most Innovative Business Leaders to Follow in 2022.

Bourque is the only Canadian to make the list, which was comprised by CIO Views Magazine.

Bourque is a third-generation owner and operator of his family’s trapline in Wood Buffalo.

He places on a strong emphasis on fishing, hunting, trapping, planting, and other harvesting skills.

He said traditional Métis lifestyle and values contribute not only to his success, but innovation.

“If you want to succeed, you need to be innovative and have your eye on the future while acknowledging the teachings from the past and remembering to remain present today.”

In November 2021, CEO Publication named Bourque as one of Canada’s Top 20 Dynamic CEOs.

They credited Bourque’s leadership skills, and called him “innovative, communicative, and proactive”.

In June, the WLMN celebrated the announcement of “Sohkastwâwin”, and the purchase of approximately 200 acres of land.

“A tremendous opportunity lies before us. We are excited to collaborate with our industry partners and to push the boundaries of innovation.”

READ MORE: Willow Lake Métis celebrate Nation’s resilience, key land acquisition

The Nation plans to use the area for an eco-bison ranch, community center, housing, and other projects.

“Our resilience relies on building and maintaining valuable relationships. With the help of our partners, we will change the course of the future.”

“Sohkastwâwin” is the Cree term for “the act of being resilient”.