Northern Authority- Manitoba

11/28/2025

Northern Authority at the MKO 44th Annual General Assembly

During the 44th MKO Annual General Assembly, held November 4–6, 2025, at Opaskwayak Cree Nation, Board Chair Denise Packo and Chief Executive Officer Ron Monias participated and presented highlights from the Northern Authority’s work over the 2024–2025 fiscal year.

Their presentation reflected the Authority’s ongoing efforts to support northern First Nations children, families, and agencies, with a focus on collaboration, accountability, and culturally grounded service delivery.

As part of this year’s Assembly, the Northern Authority Communications Unit produced a short video on the Northern Authority’s section of the MKO AGA, highlighting key messages from the presentation.

We invite you to watch the video below and learn more about the progress, partnerships, and commitments that continue to guide the work of the Northern Authority across northern Manitoba.

11/25/2025

We’re Hiring – Quality Assurance Coordinator!
The Northern Authority is looking for a skilled Quality Assurance Coordinator to help strengthen service quality across northern First Nations agencies.

Requirements:
• BSW + 5 years’ experience (or equivalent)
• Strong knowledge of child welfare standards
• Ability to travel; Class 5 driver’s license
• Understanding of northern and First Nations contexts
• Cree, Dene, or Oji-Cree language is an asset

Apply by: December 5, 2025
Email resume + cover letter to [email protected]
(Competition )

Please share with your network!

The First Nations of Northern Manitoba Child and Family Services Authority, the Northern Authority employment and career opportunities

11/20/2025

Condolences Message on the Passing of Ian Ross

It is with profound sadness that we acknowledge the passing of Ian Ross, our respected former Associate Chief Executive Officer and a cherished member of the First Nations of Northern Manitoba Child and Family Services Authority family.

On behalf of the Board of Directors and all staff of the Northern Authority, we extend our deepest condolences to Ian’s family, loved ones, colleagues, and the many communities whose lives he touched.

Ian dedicated nearly two decades of his life to advocating for the well-being of First Nations children and families across Manitoba. His journey with the Northern Authority began in 2016, where he served with humility, integrity, and unwavering commitment, first in intake support, then in special rates and communications, and ultimately as our Associate CEO. His leadership was rooted in compassion, deep respect for community, and an unshakeable belief in the transformative power of First Nations-led systems and approaches.

Ian’s legacy lives on in the Northern Authority’s continued efforts to support communities as they reclaim their inherent jurisdiction over child welfare under federal law C-24. He envisioned a future where First Nations children grow up surrounded by culture, community, and the teachings of their ancestors, a vision that will continue to guide our work for years to come.

Today, we honour Ian Ross as a compassionate leader, a dedicated advocate, and a dear friend. His loss is deeply felt across our organization and the broader community. His impact, however, will continue to shape and strengthen this work for generations.
May his memory be a blessing, and may his family find strength and comfort during this difficult time.

With deepest sympathy,
Ron Monias, Chief Executive Officer
First Nations of Northern Manitoba Child and Family Services Authority

11/18/2025

We’re Hiring – Administrative Support (Full-Time)

The First Nations of Northern Manitoba Child & Family Services Authority is looking for a dedicated Administrative Support professional to join our team.

If you’re highly organized, great with people, and thrive in a fast-paced office environment, this role may be a perfect fit.

What you’ll do:
• Support day-to-day office operations
• Manage emails, calls, reception, and scheduling
• Take clear and accurate meeting minutes
• Prepare, edit, and organize documents
• Work directly with management and staff while handling confidential information

What we’re looking for:
• 3–5 years administrative experience
• Strong communication and writing skills
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office
• Excellent time-management and attention to detail
• Professionalism when working with executives and sensitive information

Requirements:
Criminal Record Check, Child Abuse Registry Check, and Prior Contact Check.

Deadline to apply: November 28, 2025
Submit your cover letter, resume, and two professional references.

View full job posting & apply:
https://www.northernauthority.ca/employment

Please share, someone in your network might be the perfect fit!

The First Nations of Northern Manitoba Child and Family Services Authority, the Northern Authority employment and career opportunities

10/15/2025

In photo: The Northern Authority gathers at Opaskwayak Cree Nation to celebrate its 21st Annual General Meeting and the 20th Anniversary of the Aboriginal Justice Inquiry – Child Welfare Initiative (AJI–CWI).

The First Nations of Northern Manitoba Child and Family Services Authority, the Northern Authority photo albums

10/15/2025

Northern Authority Gathers at Opaskwayak Cree Nation to Celebrate 21st AGM and 20th Anniversary of AJI–CWI

The First Nations of Northern Manitoba Child and Family Services Authority (Northern Authority) proudly hosted its 21st Annual General Meeting (AGM) at the Kikiwak Inn, Opaskwayak Cree Nation, marking a milestone year that also celebrated the 20th Anniversary of the Aboriginal Justice Inquiry – Child Welfare Initiative (AJI–CWI).

The gathering brought together Elders, Chiefs, agency leaders, and partners from across northern Manitoba to reflect on two decades of progress, celebrate shared achievements, and renew commitments to advancing First Nations self-determination in child and family services.

The day began in a good way with an opening prayer from Elder William Lathlin and a powerful drum song by the Buffalo Crossing Drum Group, setting a tone of unity and reflection. Board Chair Denise Packo delivered welcoming remarks on behalf of the Board of Directors, followed by the reading of Chief Executive Officer Ron Monias’ opening remarks, presented by Associate CEO Angela Saunders.

Throughout the morning, attendees heard detailed presentations from each Northern Authority unit — Human Resources, Finance, Resource Development & Northern Initiatives, Northern Response & Support, and the Executive Unit — highlighting key accomplishments and priorities from the 2024–2025 fiscal year.

These updates reflected the Authority’s continued efforts to strengthen capacity, enhance training and policy development, improve financial accountability, and ensure culturally grounded service delivery for northern children and families.

A highlight of the day was the AJI–CWI 20th Anniversary presentation, delivered by Board Member Walter Spence, who reflected on the origins and lasting impact of the initiative. His remarks honoured the Chiefs, Elders, and visionaries who led this transformation more than two decades ago, and emphasized the ongoing importance of restoring First Nations control over child and family services. Following his presentation, a round table discussion with Mr. Walter Spence and Elder William Lathlin invited participants to share reflections, ask questions, and exchange memories about the AJI–CWI journey and its future direction.

Closing remarks on behalf of CEO Ron Monias were delivered by Associate CEO, who expressed deep gratitude to the Board, Elders, Chiefs, agency staff, and community partners for their leadership and ongoing commitment.

“AJI–CWI is not just a chapter in our history,” read Saunders from Monias’ statement. “It is living work — a vision we continue to carry forward with courage, unity, and hope for our children and families.”

The event concluded in a good way with a closing prayer and a final song by the Buffalo Crossing Drum Group, leaving attendees inspired and grounded in the shared mission to protect and strengthen northern First Nations families.

10/14/2025

Northern Authority – Year in Review 2024–2025

The First Nations of Northern Manitoba Child and Family Services Authority (Northern Authority) recently gathered at Opaskwayak Cree Nation for its 21st Annual General Meeting (AGM) and to commemorate the 20th Anniversary of the Aboriginal Justice Inquiry – Child Welfare Initiative (AJI–CWI).

This special gathering brought together Elders, Chiefs, leadership, and partners to reflect on our shared journey, honour the vision of AJI–CWI, and celebrate continued progress in advancing First Nations self-determination in child and family services.

This Year in Review video highlights key moments and achievements from across the Northern Authority and our agencies — from the Wahkotowin Conference and wildfire response efforts to cultural gatherings, training, and the launch of our new website.

Each milestone represents the dedication, resilience, and unity of our teams, our leadership, and our communities as we continue working together for the well-being of children and families across the North.

Watch the full video below 👇

10/07/2025

Starting Soon!

The 21st Annual General Meeting (AGM) of the First Nations of Northern Manitoba Child and Family Services Authority (Northern Authority) is about to begin at Opaskwayak Cree Nation!

This year’s AGM is especially meaningful as we also mark the 20th Anniversary of the Aboriginal Justice Inquiry – Child Welfare Initiative (AJI–CWI) — a milestone in the journey toward First Nations self-determination in child and family services.

Join us live in just a few minutes for opening prayers, leadership greetings, and reflections on the year.

Watch the livestream right here on Northern Authority’s social media platforms.

10/01/2025

The First Nations of Northern Manitoba Child and Family Services Authority (Northern Authority) is proud to announce its:

- 21st Annual General Meeting (AGM)
- 20th Anniversary of the Aboriginal Justice Inquiry – Child Welfare Initiative (AJI–CWI)

Where: Opaskwayak Cree Nation- The Pas, Manitoba
When: Tuesday, October 7, 2025

The event will be livestreamed on Northern Authority’s social media platforms.

Stay tuned for more details as we honour 20 years of AJI–CWI and reflect on the path forward for First Nations child and family services.

09/29/2025

Message from the CEO – National Day for Truth and Reconciliation

On the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, we pause as an organization and as individuals to honour the Survivors of the Residential School system, to remember the children who never returned home, and to reflect on the lasting impacts these institutions continue to have on First Nations families and Nations across this land.

This day is not simply one of remembrance; it is a call to action. It asks us to open our hearts and minds to the truths of our shared history, and to acknowledge the pain that has been carried across generations. It is a time to recommit ourselves to ensuring that these truths are never forgotten, and that reconciliation is not just spoken about, but lived out in meaningful ways.

Today, the Northern Authority family gathered in a spirit of humility and respect. We were deeply honoured to welcome Elder Wally McKay, a Survivor of the Residential School system, who shared his story, his wisdom, and his prayers with us. Elder McKay’s presence reminded us that reconciliation begins with listening — truly listening — to those whose lives have been shaped by this painful legacy. His courage to speak his truth is an act of generosity that demands our deepest respect and our strongest response.

Elder McKay’s words carried both grief and hope. He spoke of loss, but also of strength, healing, and the resilience of First Nations Peoples. As he guided us in prayer, we were reminded that reconciliation is not an abstract idea; it is about relationships. It is about how we choose to live and work each day, how we stand with children and families, and how we honour the voices of Survivors in every decision we make as an organization.

Reconciliation is not the work of a single day. It is a lifelong journey that requires honesty, accountability, and action. For the Northern Authority, this means ensuring that the truth of Residential Schools remains at the heart of how we serve children and families. It means building relationships based on respect, trust, and understanding. And it means working tirelessly so that future generations of First Nations children grow up knowing their cultures, their languages, and their identities are sacred and celebrated.

On behalf of the Northern Authority, I want to express my deepest gratitude to Elder Wally McKay for joining us today, and to all Survivors whose courage and resilience continue to light the path forward. We acknowledge the pain, we honour the strength, and we commit ourselves to walking this journey of reconciliation with determination and respect.

May this day remind us all that reconciliation is not only possible — it is necessary. And it begins with each of us, every single day. Let us carry this responsibility forward in our work, in our communities, and in our daily lives.

Ron Monias
Chief Executive Officer
First Nations of Northern Manitoba Child and Family Services Authority