Candidates for Youth Grand Chief and Deputy Youth Grand Chief have been announced for Cree Nation Youth Council elections on August 7. Advance polls will open July 31 ahead of a live debate on the CNYC Facebook page August 4.
The four-year mandate of Adrian Gunner and Jordan Masty came to a close with their last Board of Directors meeting June 19. Thanking God, the CNYC and his family, Gunner said he wouldn’t be accepting another nomination for the position of Youth Grand Chief because his family needs him.
“Riley was four years old when I got in and it never got easier leaving him and my wife for work travels,” Gunner shared. “After a lot of sacrifices and ‘next time’ for family and friends, I will now be able to prioritize them. Now it is time to pass on the torch to the next youth leadership. CNYC will be in good hands, I’m sure of that.”
The two candidates for Youth Grand Chief in this election are well known: Jade Mukash and Kevin-Joseph Mianscum. The four candidates for Deputy Youth Grand Chief are Bob E. Diamond, Francine Matthew, Drayden Mistacheesick and Darius Neacappo-Pelchat.The Nation spoke with the two Youth Grand Chief candidates about their campaign priorities.
Jade Mukash
Recognized for winning the Traditional Knowledge Award at the first-ever Miss Indigenous Canada pageant last year, Jade Mukash has been involved in youth advocacy work since starting a student council at her Whapmagoostui high school and being elected its president.
At age 16, she joined the community’s youth council and worked at its youth centre, helping create safe and inspiring spaces. Being named Miss Whapmagoostui and now Miss Eeyou/Eenou Iskwaau expanded Mukash’s tools for serving the region’s youth.
“In my journey in youth advocacy work, I found myself striving to follow our ancestral teachings to create modern day solutions,” said Mukash. “I am often reminded of my grandparents’ teachings on our phases of life. During this stage of growth and the search for belonging, it’s important to guide our youth, protect them, and nurture their needs.”
Resonating with the challenge of cultural and language preservation, Mukash admitted she didn’t learn Cree growing up but believes it’s possible to learn “when you take the time and have people who believe in you.” Her campaign slogan translates as “let’s stand together, be brave and lead each other.”
Mukash wants to develop leadership capabilities, open doors beyond Eeyou Istchee and continue the CNYC’s recent efforts to connect with other Indigenous groups. Coming from a Cree-Inuit twin community, Mukash was inspired by the Qarjuit Youth Council’s visit at the 2023 AGA.
“They’re two different cultures but our history is so close together,” Mukash said. “Indigenous youth are definitely on the rise all over Canada, making a change not just in politics but other leadership – the arts, singing and fashion. It’s important to keep the momentum going.”
Describing herself as a mother and partner first, Mukash said her young son loves to travel and it’s possible to prioritize family while staying dedicated to her work. Embarking on a campaign through all Cree communities, she values social media platforms for staying accessible and relatable.
“My vision is to provide the opportunity for our youth to share their dreams and hopes for the future of Eeyou Istchee,” asserted Mukash.
Kevin-Joseph Mianscum
A former member of Mistissini’s youth council, Kevin-Joseph Mianscum now addresses youth matters at the band council. Sitting on multiple committees, he said he always tries to make these spaces more available for youth.
“I think the youth often feel disregarded in terms of decision-making,” Mianscum said. “I want to have youth voices heard – we do have a lot to say. Empowering youth is one of the reasons I do what I do, to better themselves in every aspect – career-wise, going after opportunities or just their mental health.”
With the New Relationship Agreement with Canada coming up for renegotiation, Mianscum said strong youth voices should be at the table. Saying regional organizations too often work in silos, he wants the CNYC to work with other entities to unite resources and tackle issues together.
Asserting that mental health is the region’s biggest challenge, Mianscum emphasized that developing effective support services and safe spaces are vital for promoting Miyupimâtisîun (health and wellness), building healthier and more vibrant communities.
Education is another priority. Mianscum advocated for quality schooling that reflects Eeyou/Eenou culture and prepares youth for both the traditional and modern world. He said resources must always be made available for the diverse pursuits of this generation.
Mianscum said preserving culture, language and environment means viewing them as interconnected and indivisible. Applauding recent CNYC efforts at building bridges with other First Nations, he believes “it’s important to showcase our knowledge and culture, to make our identity known on the national and even international level.”
He said the support he’s received has humbled and strengthened him, inspiring him “to serve with heart and to lead with integrity.” That encouragement “to follow a shared vision” has made this journey especially meaningful for him.
“Leadership is not about standing in front,” stated Mianscum. “It’s about walking side by side with your people. Let’s walk in this path together – I will need you all to guide me and steer me to lead you all for a future that works for us.”