b'MESSAGE FROM THE CHAIRWelcome toNations Forward!This magazine is more than a publication. For us, its a chance to share our storiesnot only the work of the Coalition, but also the work of our members. Through these stories, we hope to show the vision and purpose that drive us each and every day and to highlight the ideas and leadership that continue to shape a stronger future. Because we believe that when First Nations lead, everyone benefits.In Nations Forward, we highlight the achievements, challenges, and aspirations of First Nations and our members in economic development. These stories demonstrate whyFirst Nations participation in major projects is essential and truly transformative. This magazine is a platform to amplify our voices, illustrate the impact of our work and strengthen our collective efforts.Sharleen GaleAs executive chair, Im honoured to reflect on the journey of the First Nations MajorExecutive Chair Projects Coalition.First Nations leaders have long envisioned communities asserting economic sovereignty, securing equitable benefits, and ensuring environmental stewardship within their traditional territories. That vision is what brought this coalition to life.Historically, First Nations have had to navigate complex resource development processes alone. We continue to face barriers, from limited access to capital, to being excluded from decision-making, to regulatory systems that dont reflect our values or priorities.Recognizing the strength of working together, leaders from many Nations in British Columbia came together with a shared goal: to level the playing field. Our mission is to provide tools, resources, and expertise that support First Nations to lead major projects, negotiate equitable benefits, and protect our lands, waters, and communities.Today, the Coalition includes member Nations, Tribal Councils, Hereditary Chiefs, and economic development corporations from coast to coast to coast. We work to ensure our members have a decisive role in shaping Canadas economy, especially in their traditional territories. But our success isnt only measured in economic terms. Its measured in the strength of our communities and the sustainability of our lands.As we reflect on how far weve come, we must also take a moment to honour the memory of our late leader, colleague, and most importantly, our friend, Niilo Edwards. Niilos vision and dedication were instrumental in shaping FNMPC and advancing First Nations economic leadership in Canada. He believed that self-determination starts with economic sovereignty and worked tirelessly, to the end of his days, to make sure First Nations had access to the tools, partnerships, and support they needed to take part in shaping this countrys future.His belief in collective action, and in all of us, left a lasting mark on our work and our lives.As we carry forward his legacy, we remain committed to the principles he championed: principles of equity, opportunity, and First Nations leadership shaping our sharedfuture together.Together, we are stronger. When we lift each other up, we create lasting change. When we bring our voices and work together, we influence policy, form equity-based partnerships, and shift the narrative around whats possible in major project development.Our collective strength is driven by our members. Their leadership, knowledge, and determination drive this work forward. Through advocacy, capacity building, and partnerships, the Coalition helps amplify their voices and support their visions for change.As our reach continues to grow, our work remains rooted in the vision that first brought us together. Each milestone reminds us that First Nations economic participation is no longer an aspirationits an expectation. This journey is about protecting our lands and waters, asserting our rights, and shaping a future where First Nations lead the decisions that impact our people.Mussi cho,Sharleen Gale Executive Chair, First Nations Major Projects Coalition8NATIONS FORWARDIssue 12025'