b'RememberingPhoto credit: Sue von der PortenNIILO EDWARDS (19862024) By Andrew St. Germain and Sue von der PortenN iilo Edwards was a force.Resourceful and visionary from a youngschool, Niilo moved to Ottawa to study On a stormy night with age, Niilo rose above the perceivedpublic administration and work in the 40-knot winds andlimitations of life in a small village. HeHouse of Commons. Senator Gerrytreacherous waters, Niilosfollowed his entrepreneurial spirit, helpingSt. Germain remembers the day the pregnant mother was transported byhis father make and sell split cedar shakesyouthful giant arrived in his office to small boat from Sointula, the fishingand later running his own lawn carebecome his executive assistant.village where he was raised, to Alertcompany, among other ventures. CreatingI was impressed at this young mans Bay, B.C., where his time on Eartheconomic opportunity was a skill hemature and sincere presentation of began. His dramatic arrival forecast thewould carry throughout his life. himself, recalls Senator St. Germain. presence of a strong community voiceAfter taking an interest in public policyFrom there, a phenomenaland born leader. and working for his local MLA in highjourney began.24NATIONS FORWARDIssue 12025'