Empowering Indigenous Voices in Nuclear Energy: Celebrating NEMS Graduates

First Nations Power Authority (FNPA) is proud to celebrate the achievements of three outstanding Indigenous participants—Mesa Kennedy, Erica Anaquod, and Christopher Hansen—who recently completed the Nuclear Energy Management School (NEMS), hosted by the University of Saskatchewan’s College of Engineering and in cooperation with International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA). This groundbreaking initiative was delivered at no cost to students thanks to sponsorship from SaskPower, Crown Investments Corporation of Saskatchewan (CIC), Prairies Economic Development Canada.

Over two intensive weeks, fifty students immersed themselves in the nuclear energy lifecycle—from technical systems and regulatory frameworks to policy, safety, and sustainability. Among them, Mesa Kennedy, our FNPA Clean Energy Intern, stood out as the youngest Indigenous woman in the cohort. She proudly represented her community Carry the Kettle First Nations in Treaty 4 Territory while embracing a leadership role in discussions about Indigenous inclusion in clean energy.

“This certificate represents more than just personal growth,” Mesa shared. “It’s a stepping stone toward inspiring other Indigenous youth to envision themselves in the nuclear energy sector… I aim to foster economic reconciliation by advocating for more Indigenous-led projects in energy.”

Mesa’s favourite topics ranged from the decommissioning of nuclear reactors to the evolution of nuclear technology—subjects she found both fascinating and essential to a safe, responsible energy future.

“It’s okay not to be the most knowledgeable person in the room,” she added. “Being able to learn from others’ diverse experiences was a privilege.”

Participants also took part in tours of cutting-edge research facilities, including the eVinci microreactor model, the Fedoruk Centre, and the Canadian Light Source. They even led breakout sessions with Indigenous youth at the SK FN Centre for Excellence’s Youth Summit, fostering cross-generational dialogue and engagement.

“Engaging with the youth was one of my favourite parts,” Mesa said. “Being a youth myself, I want to see other Indigenous youth succeed and prosper in clean energy.”

For Erica Anaquod, a graduate of Environmental Engineering Technology, the program expanded her expertise into nuclear energy and strengthened her commitment to supporting Saskatchewan’s clean energy future.

“I highly recommend this program,” Erica said. “It was insightful, and with the growing need for clean energy, nuclear offers a reliable, low-carbon option. I’m excited for the opportunities ahead as Saskatchewan introduces Small Modular Reactors (SMRs).”

Erica’s personal highlight was the Canadian Light Source tour, where she learned how the facility studies molecular structures—knowledge she’s eager to integrate into her career as she transitions into the nuclear sector.

Christopher Hansen, a 4th-year Mechanical Engineering student at the University of Saskatchewan and proud member of Fishing Lake First Nation, brought a decade of experience in aircraft maintenance and a deep personal interest in nuclear to the program. He previously attended the Canadian Nuclear Association’s 2024 conference and saw NEMS as the next step in his journey.

“This program provided an exceptional overview of the legal, regulatory, financial, and technical landscape of the nuclear industry,” Christopher said. “The diverse cohort made the experience all the more meaningful, inclusive and positive.”

Christopher sees a strong future for Indigenous leadership in clean energy:

“As we move towards a carbon neutral energy landscape, we also reinforce the need of Indigenous representation and involvement from all our Nations and peoples. I would encourage any Indigenous student or professional to give meaningful consideration to a career in the nuclear or renewable energy industries.”

He adds, “The CNNEMS course highlighted the express importance of collaboration, consultation and participation of all Indigenous and non-Indigenous Canadians alike. The potential for a cleaner and more sustainable future that the nuclear industry represents is real, but only with true collaboration and participation will we see it happen.”

FNPA believes in initiatives like NEMS that create pathways for Indigenous participation in the clean energy transition. The stories of Mesa, Erica, and Christopher serve as a powerful reminder that Indigenous voices must not only be included—they must be empowered to lead in building a sustainable energy future for all.

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