Honoured to have this story recognized with a Gold Medal for Media’s Best Feel Good Story at the 2024 Canadian Online Publishing Awards! 

“A squeaky wheel with data: how Nipissing First Nation is healing environmental damage”

The Nipissing region has suffered from the damaging effects of industry, poor land management, and colonialism. But Nipissing First Nation @nipissingfn believes their community can help restore the land’s health by blending innovative tools and techniques with traditional stewardship practices. 

In an article by Leah Borts-Kuperman @leahkuperman, the piece challenges us to reflect on our responsibilities and our deep connections to the land. Paired with my images, it highlights the true heroes who are leading the way through their actions, living by example. It highlights Nipissing First Nation’s Natural Resources team and their work restoring manoomin (wild rice) along the Veuve River, replacing invasive phragmites. 

This award is a well-deserved nod to positive storytelling and progressive media—because even in problematic times, there are people out there focused on community-driven change and lasting solutions! A special thank you to The Narwhal @thenarwhalca for believing in stories that inspire hope and showcase the power of community-driven change. Your support helps bring these important narratives to light.