b'What unique challenges have arisen inThrough the initiatives we have developed, your role recently?SM: There were unique challengesNipissing is moving closer and closer to in conducting business through the lockdown of COVID-19. Wesovereign wealth, self-reliance and self-were constructing the bridge during COVID-19 [using] laminated wood manufactured out of Quebec. The woodgovernance. We have learned that what you put had to be treated and sent to Seattle, Wash. During that time, there were forestinto it is what youll get out of it.fires in British Columbia and Washington State. We had to deal with a lot of time Chief Scott McLeodconstraints regarding that, but we were able to deal with that and find success throughout the pandemic. What work is NFN doing to promote economic development? Do you haveLife Benet Solutions is a group insurance and any projects or initiatives that yourepension broker focused on Indigenous organizations especially proud of? operating across Canada. We strive to give you competitive products backed by a superior service SM: We have received accolades for theoffering with an emphasis on:new Duchesnay Creek Bridge and have won three business awards. We received a Creating custom designed plans at sustainable costsNorthern Ontario Excellence Award that Providing outstanding customer servicewas delivered to us by representatives from Building long-term relationshipsWood WORKS! Ontario, an Ontario Public Works award and a Project of the Year award. It was ironic that we were on the same stage with people we had to argue with and received an award for it.Another project we have is a Chamber of Commerce being put in place in our community. It will usher in a new plat-form to unite businesses and give them the ability to network. The Chamber ofConnect with us at lifeinc.ca or 1.866.605.5433Commerce will be run by people in our community. [We also have] an electrical grid [through] Nbisiing Power with solar panel projects that will be built on topof buildings. Lastly, through a Cold Climate Initiative, we have a fresh green source of food with a new venture called Mnogin Greenhouse. Mnogin is a venture that allows leafy vegeta- The naturallysimpleseptic systembles to be grown and given to the commu-nity. It promotes healthy eating, suppliesNo power, no moving parts, justpeace of mindproducts to other communities and provides 15 other alternative [food] sources.Is there anything else youd like to add?SM: Through the initiatives we have developed, Nipissing is moving closer and closer to sovereign wealth, self-reliance and self-governance. We have learned that what you put into it is what youll get out of it. We are constantly looking to build relationships, and diversifying Nipissing is moving us to the forefront as leaders inCOA.dboexpert.comeconomic leadership.I ssue2 2022/23C hIefs ofo ntarIoA dvocAte magazIne l 47'