Opawâmow Group
Walking alongside Indigenous communities and industry to build opportunities for the next seven generations.
Opawâmow Group Inc. is an Indigenous-led company focused on meaningful engagement, real opportunities, and long-term partnerships. We work with communities and project partners to ensure that the voices, rights, and aspirations of Indigenous Peoples are at the centre of every decision.
Our Vision
Our vision is for Indigenous communities to lead, shape, and benefit from the projects that impact their lands, waters, and people.
​
We are committed to:
-
Centering Indigenous voices in planning, decisions, and implementation
-
Building sustainable social, cultural, and economic outcomes
-
Creating partnerships based on trust, transparency, and respect
-
Taking a “boots-on-the-ground” approach rooted in listening, learning, and showing up
​
For Opawamow, success is measured not just by project milestones, but by the strength, resilience, and prosperity of the communities we work with.
Opawâmow Group
Jesse Dayen St. Pierre
OG7GES, President (Mi-gi-sî-wi Was-ko Na-bew or Eagle Cloud Man) is an Indigenous engagement and business development consultant from Missanabie Cree First Nation in Treaty 9. For the last decade, Jesse has been working on remote projects across Canada from diamond mines in NWT, oil and gas projects in Western Canada, all the way over to power line projects in Newfoundland/Labrador. Across these projects Jesse focused on relationship building, Indigenous recruitment, business development and procurement.
Opawâmow in ililimowin, also known as Cree L-dialect or Moose Cree means "Dreamer".​ In Plains Cree or nÄ“hiyawÄ“win, can be understood as “He/She takes care of them,” or “the one who watches over/cares for others.”
Opawâmow reflects the way we approach relationships and work with Indigenous communities and industry partners. It’s about care, stewardship, and accountability. To “take care” means to protect opportunities for our Nations, to guide projects in a good way, and to ensure that the benefits of today ripple forward for the next seven generations.
​
Through our business, we carry that teaching into practice. We look after our communities by creating economic opportunities, supporting training and employment, and building partnerships rooted in respect and trust. We also take care of our partners by guiding them in a way that ensures development is done responsibly and with true community benefit at heart.
Giving Back to Our Communities
At Opawâmow Group Inc., giving back is at the core of who we are. We believe that true partnership means investing directly in the well-being of the communities we walk with, not just through projects, but through genuine acts of support that make a difference in everyday life.
​
Our Approach to Giving
Our donations and sponsorships focus on initiatives that uplift, empower, and celebrate Indigenous people and communities. We prioritize efforts that strengthen cultural identity, create learning opportunities, and support youth and families.
1. Education and Youth Programs
We’ve contributed to bursaries, student awards, and training opportunities that help young Indigenous learners pursue education and career goals, particularly in trades, energy, and community leadership. Supporting youth is investing in the next generation of knowledge keepers and leaders.
2. Community Events and Cultural Initiatives
Opawamow Group proudly supports community gatherings, powwows, and cultural events that keep traditions alive. These are moments that bring people together, honour teachings, and celebrate identity, and we’re honoured to play a part in that.
3. Health, Wellness, and Family Support
We give to initiatives that promote community wellness, from mental health awareness to family programs that provide safe, healthy environments for children. We believe that when families thrive, communities grow stronger.
4. Local Fundraisers and Emergency Support
We remain responsive to community needs, whether that means sponsoring local fundraisers, contributing to emergency relief efforts, or helping grassroots groups access the resources they need to do their work.
Our Commitment
Each donation and sponsorship reflects our responsibility to reciprocity, to give back to the Nations and people who trust us to walk alongside them. Our goal is not only to contribute financially, but to show up, participate, and help communities thrive for generations to come.
Community Support
At Opawamow Group Inc., community comes first. Every project we take on is rooted in the principle of walking together. Ensuring that the social, cultural, and economic benefits of development reach the people and Nations most impacted.
​
Our support extends far beyond consultation. We actively invest in community capacity, local training, employment, and long-term partnerships that empower Indigenous communities to lead the way.
1. Capacity Building and Training
We’ve supported numerous Nations in building local skills and technical knowledge through initiatives such as archaeological field monitoring training, cultural sensitivity programs, and project readiness workshops. These efforts ensure communities have the expertise to participate meaningfully in major projects.
2. Employment and Economic Opportunities
Opawamow Group partners with organizations like CRG Energy, GLM Homes, and other EPC contractors to create pathways for Indigenous employment, procurement, and business participation. From site maintenance to construction support, we work to ensure Indigenous people are part of every phase of development.
3. Community Engagement and Representation
Our “boots-on-the-ground” approach includes organizing and facilitating community information sessions, leadership meetings, and Technical Advisory Committees (TACs). We make sure every community’s voice is heard, not just at leadership tables, but across the entire membership.
4. Social and Cultural Contributions
Beyond projects, we contribute to community well-being through donations, sponsorships, and partnerships that support youth programs, cultural events, and education. This includes supporting student bursaries, cultural awareness initiatives, and local celebrations that strengthen identity and pride.
5. Long-Term Partnership and Mentorship
We don’t leave when a project ends. Our goal is to build long-term relationships, providing ongoing mentorship, advisory support, and collaborative planning to help communities grow capacity, governance structures, and sustainable enterprises for future generations.
Opâwamow Group
Giving Back
Missanabie Masqwa is a Missanabie Cree First Nation Little NHL hockey team supported by Opâwamow Group.
​
This team was created to allow youth from Missanabie Cree to be involved and supported within the Little NHL League.
Contact Us
Please use the form or methods to connect below.
Get in Touch
Missanabie Cree First Nation
Box 679
P0S 1K0