Debra Keaney
President
I was born and raised in Toronto and currently reside in Oakville Ontario. I am a descendant of Drummond Island’s Francois Denys-Delaronde and Madeleine Pewadjiwonokwe whom eventually settled in Penetanguishene. Making Georgian Bay my traditional territory. I have been on the council since 2018 as a councilor/secretary, Women’s Representative and currently President. After my first healing blanket workshop I knew that I wanted to join the council and proudly represent our Metis citizens and at the same time to broaden my knowledge of my Metis heritage. I am honoured to be taking on this new role as President with the Credit River Metis Council. Looking forward to meeting all of you in the near future.
Robert Bell
Chair
Captain of The Hunt Region 8
Robert is a descendant of the Northwest Company Voyageur, Antoine Charpentier. Born in Owen Sound, he now resides near Orangeville. He is an amateur historian and an avid Harvester.
Brittany Broad
Treasurer
Pat Gasparro
Senator
Pat Gasparro, Senator for the Credit River Métis Council is a life long volunteer of many organizations, is a proud Métis Nation of Ontario citizen with his root ancestors being Francois Dusome and Francoise Clermont and Louis Chevrette Marguerite Souliere. Being an avid outdoors person, Pat frequently visits Mother Earth’s rivers, lakes and trails appreciating her seasonal cycles and circles of life. Pat pays particular attention to the regions he grew up in from the lands and waters between the Nottawasaga River to Waubaushene. Pat is married with four children living in Mississauga. His education included some at Seneca College and is a First Dan of the Kodokan Judo of Japanese origin.
Samantha Brabant
Women’s Representative
Born in Toronto to Metis and Italian parents, Samantha’s roots trace back to a lineage
deeply connected to the land. Her grandfather’s parents (Anishnawbe & Metis)
established a homestead in what is now Awenda Provincial Park after being displaced
from Drummond Island. Today, like many Metis families in Ontario, most of her relatives
reside in Penetanguishene.
Samantha is working towards her Social Service Worker Diploma at Seneca Polytechnic
intending to continue in her studies to obtain a degree in Mental Health & Addictions.
She is actively involved in cultural practices such as beading and ceremony, which are
integral to her identity and healing journey.
While attending a workshop at the CRMC offices, she was informed of a vacancy on the
council. Grateful for the opportunity to give back to her community she is now the
Women’s Representative. Samantha is here to help others reclaim their culture and find
their way to Mino Bimaadzawin (the Good Life). [email protected]
James Des Roches
Councillor
James’ Métis ancestors were Voyageurs who traversed west to the Pacific Ocean, south to New Orleans, and participated in the founding of Fort Garry, near Winnipeg. His family eventually settled near Lafontaine in Tiny Township, where he still has roots. As Councillor, James pitches in and helps out as needed.
Collette Lamonday
Councillor
Hi…I’m Collette. I love traveling, trying new food, my family, especially my 9 year old daughter Sofie and learning more about my Metis culture. During the summer months, I’ll be playing volleyball and trying to be outdoors as much as possible.
Makenzie Simmons
Youth Representative
I have lived in Sault Ste Marie for the past 10 years, I am new to Oakville. Recently I have joined the Credit River Metis Council, I’m looking forward to the opportunities to learn and meet new people.