Slave Lake, Alberta (March 23, 2021): The NLC Council of Community Education Committees (CCEC), in partnership with the Regional Economic Development Initiative of Northwest Alberta (REDI) and Community Futures Northwest Alberta, hosted an online workshop today with Chief Clarence Louie, Chief of the Osoyoos Indian Band located in British Columbia.

Today’s workshop is the first of a two-part series with Chief Louie, with the second workshop scheduled for April 6. Drawing from his extensive knowledge and decades of experience as Chief of the Osoyoos Indian Band, Chief Louie shares lessons learned on leadership, economic development, and cross-cultural collaboration.

A recipient of the Order of Canada in 2017 and inductee into the Canadian Business Hall of Fame in 2019, Chief Louie is a sought-after speaker with engagements throughout Canada and internationally. His message is one of empowerment through work, education, and building community, with a focus on socio-economic development.

Chief Louie’s focus on economic development as a means of creating opportunity in a community is clear. “Good words, without money to back them up, have no legs. Money equals opportunity, and they are connected by a solid line, not a dotted line. Economic development creates opportunity. There might be a lot of talk, for example, how to improve health, education, or youth programs, but unless a community has the money, nothing gets done,” says Chief Louie.

Northern Lakes College President & CEO, Glenn Mitchell, comments, “Chief Louie provides inspiration and a wonderful message of self-empowerment. The success of the Osoyoos Indian Band is testament to Chief Louie’s message.”

Chief Louie’s workshops are part of a series of online workshops and training opportunities, offered free of charge, to community members throughout the Northern Lakes College service region. To register for the April 6 workshop, or for information on the various sessions offered, visit www.northernlakescollege.ca/ccec.

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A distance learning college, Northern Lakes College provides the most accessible and flexible educational opportunities through innovative delivery. Utilizing its unique Supported Distance Learning (SDL) model, NLC assists 5,000 students annually to continue their education, improve their employment opportunities, and enhance their quality of life. Committed to its communities in northern Alberta and to its students, wherever they may be, NLC collaborates with business, industry, and other post-secondary institutions to benefit students and communities. Explore at www.northernlakescollege.ca.

For additional information contact:

Rachel Ouellette
Director, External Relations, Marketing & Communication
Office of the President
Northern Lakes College 
news@northernlakescollege.ca