About Us
Our team is on your team: Consultative community-driven programs, shaping resilient leaders for tomorrow.
Who We Are
Since 2011, ActivNation has successfully collaborated with over 3000 Indigenous youth, providing them with comprehensive support to achieve their goals through a combination of sports and education programs. Throughout our journey, we have developed proprietary frameworks for education and health to ensure that our programs are specifically designed to meet the unique needs of our communities.
To develop these programs, we have actively engaged with local youth and community members, highlighting their input and insights. We firmly believe that community-led initiatives are the most effective way to assist Indigenous youth in realizing their aspirations and fulfilling their dreams
Our team comprises experienced and passionate coaches, educators, and athletes who have dedicated their careers to youth development programs, fostering engaged and energetic student-athletes. We recognize the importance of consistent role models who are invested in the future of the young people they serve. Whenever possible, we prioritize local mentorship and leadership, while also bringing in external expertise when needed.
Coaching and Instructors
All members of the ActivNation staff possess coaching qualifications in their respective sports, as well as CPR and First Aid certifications. They have also completed the Aboriginal Coaching Modules, ensuring a culturally sensitive approach to their coaching practices. However, what sets our staff apart goes beyond their qualifications. They are exceptional individuals who actively engage with the local community and are dedicated to promoting an active lifestyle and prioritizing education.
In recognition of the challenges faced by remote communities in establishing and maintaining youth sports programs, ActivNation takes a unique approach. We not only train the students but also focus on training local trainers. Our experienced staff bring their expertise in coaching and program development to under-resourced areas, empowering the local community to develop their own skills and establish self-sustaining youth sports programs.
Our instructors are not only qualified trainers but also serve as role models within their own communities. They embody the core values of our internal culture, known as the 3 Cs: Compassionate, Considerate, and Communicative. These values guide their interactions and relationships with the students and the community as a whole, fostering a positive and supportive environment.
Jessie Groniger
Director of Education
After graduating from Teachers College, Jessie embarked on a transformative journey in Australia, where she spent nearly two years developing and leading hockey programs for youth and adults in the Melbourne area. Her passion for sports led her to join the semi-professional Melbourne Ice Women’s team as one of their three drafted import players, extending her stay on a sports visa. With six years of experience working for the Ottawa School Board, Jessie decided to pursue new opportunities and moved to Waswanipi as the lead broomball instructor. During her time in Waswanipi, she also began working for the Cree School Board, further deepening her involvement in education and sports. Currently in her fifth season in Waswanipi, Jessie continues to make a positive impact by running on-ice and fitness programs for youth and adults. With a background in playing and coaching at the AAA and AA levels, Jessie brings a competitive edge and a strong desire to see the youth excel both academically and athletically. Her ultimate goal is to foster collaboration between schools and sports, creating a foundation for lifelong success for the community’s youth.
Brent Kisil
Director of Partnerships
Brent Kisil, a graduate with a business commerce degree from St. Mary’s University and a Project Management Professional (PMP) designation, has dedicated the past decade to working in First Nation communities, focusing on program development. Through hands-on experience and a deep understanding of community needs, Brent has successfully created and implemented programs that promote capacity building, health, and education among youth. His notable accomplishment includes the establishment of the hockey and sports academy in Eastmain, which has significantly contributed to increasing the graduation rate to over 80%. Recognizing the importance of a holistic approach to student well-being, Brent has previously fostered a partnership with the Cree Health Board, ensuring a comprehensive and integrated approach to students’ healthy, active, and educated lifestyles. Furthermore, Brent brings a wealth of hockey experience, having played in various junior hockey leagues such as MJAHL, EOJHL, and CCHL.
