Latest News
The South West Region includes four Métis community councils serving citizens across southwestern Ontario. Visit each council’s page to learn more about local programs, events, and leadership.
President Derrick Pont receives the Town of Lincoln Mayor’s Medal
Congratulations to Niagara Region Métis Council President Derrick Pont on receiving the Town of Lincoln Mayor’s Medal.
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South West Region Launches New Regional Website to Strengthen Community Connection
The Métis Nation of Ontario (MNO) South West Region is proud to announce the official launch of its new regional website!
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South West Region’s Powley Day Regional Rendezvous 2026 – Volunteer Positions
We’re looking for 4 key volunteers to support the South West Region’s Powley Day Regional Rendezvous 2026 🎉
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Call for Entertainers – Powley Day Regional Rendezvous 2026
The South West Region is inviting entertainers to be part of our Powley Day Regional Rendezvous 2026 — a full day of Métis culture, community, and celebration. We are seeking family, hobby, youth/child performances that celebrate and reflect Métis culture.
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All Council Meeting Highlights – March 29
What a great day of connection, learning, and a little friendly competition! We were proud to bring together 33 elected representatives from across the South West Region, including regional leadership and community council members from all four councils. These gatherings are such an important opportunity to strengthen relationships, share knowledge, and build momentum together.
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Continuing the Conversation Across the South West Region
We’re pleased to share photos from our recent Conversation & Community Meal gatherings in Sarnia, Exeter, St. Catharines, and Welland. Thank you to everyone who joined us — for your time, your thoughtful reflections, your questions, and your willingness to be part of these important conversations.
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Vendor Call – Powley Day Regional Rendezvous 2026
Vendor applications are still open for the South West Region’s Powley Day Regional Rendezvous 2026, and spaces are beginning to fill.
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Our Deepest Condolences to Kelly Brishke’s Family & Communities
With sadness in our hearts the Niagara Region Métis Council is letting our Métis Community know of the passing of long time Councilor Kelly Brishke.
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Conversation & Community Meals Across the South West Region
Over the past few weeks, we’ve had the privilege of gathering in Hamilton, Brantford, Chatham, Windsor, Stratford, and Guelph for meaningful conversations about Métis self-government.
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Building Stronger Pathways for Métis Business
On February 18th, representatives from the Métis Nation of Ontario met with the Business Development Bank of Canada (BDC) in Ottawa to strengthen relationships and explore enhanced funding opportunities for Métis entrepreneurs.
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Sweet Success at the Kids Baking Class
On February 7th, Métis children ages 7–12 (and their families) gathered at The Grove @ Western Fair for a fun and hands-on Baking Class filled with learning, laughter, and plenty of sweet treats.
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TBWMC Winter Feast
On January 31st, the Thames Bluewater Métis Council gathered at the Lambeth Legion in Lambeth to celebrate its annual Winter Feast, an evening filled with community, connection, and shared updates.
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The South West Region, formally Region 9, represents Métis Nation of Ontario (MNO) citizens living throughout southwestern Ontario. The MNO is the democratically elected and recognized Métis government representing Métis communities and citizens in Ontario. The South West (SW) Region and it’s leadership are the democratically elected representatives of the Métis citizens living within our region.
The region includes four Chartered Community Councils made up of volunteers. These councils are Clear Waters (CWMC), Grand River (GRMC), Niagara Region (NRMC), and Thames Bluewater (TBWC). The region also includes those living outside of council boundaries, such as citizens residing in the Windsor-Essex/Chatham-Kent area. The councils form the local foundation of Métis governance in the region, ensuring that citizens have a voice in the MNO as their Métis government.
While southwestern Ontario is not traditional Métis territory, our councils play a vital role in representing the interests of rights-bearing Métis citizens living outside their historic communities. They help ensure access to cultural programming, community services, and opportunities to engage in the governance of the MNO. As all regions within the MNO, we are committed to building a future rooted in the values, traditions, and aspirations of Métis people—one that supports cultural resurgence, enhances community wellbeing, and upholds our shared responsibility to future generations.
Upcoming Events
Join us at upcoming events across the South West Region. From cultural gatherings and workshops to youth activities and community meetings, these events offer opportunities for citizens to connect, learn, and celebrate Métis culture together.
Early Learning and Family Camp at Balls Falls
Come on out and connect with the Niagara Region Métis Community! Learn more about the Métis Way of Life and Métis traditions. Set up your own family campsite, and spend the day immersed in Métis culture! Families will move and learn together through hands-on activities, and finish the evening with a shared meal and community campfire.
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TBWMC’s Annual Rendezvous
This event will be held at Ska-Nah-Doht Village and Museum. More information coming soon!
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Women’s Drop-In – June
GRMC Women's Rep, Danika Warman, has started a monthly drop-in for women in the GRMC catchment to socialize and work on our projects in a friendly environment.
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Café 55
Café 55 June 18, 2026. The location of this meeting is still to be determined. Please check back again for more information.
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Koffee with Kathleen – PCMNO’s South West Regional Councilor – Aug 25 (12PM & 6:30PM)
You’re warmly invited to Coffee with Councillor Kathleen Anderson (PCMNO South West Regional Councillor) on Tuesday, August 25, 2026 at 12PM & 6:30PM. Bring a tea or coffee and join a friendly, open conversation about whatever matters to you—your MNO questions, Métis heritage, the constitution process, community updates, or anything else on your mind.
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South West Region Rendezvous Powley Day
Registration is open for the 2026 South West Region Powley Day Rendezvous! Join the South West Region on September 19 from 10a.m. to 4p.m. at the Guelph Lake Conservation Area for a day of celebration and camaraderie. Lunch will be provided and guests will enjoy a day full of music, activities, and cultural sharing
View EventMNO Programs and Links
MNO AGA 2026 – Registration is Now Open!
Attention Citizens! Registration is now open for the Metis Nation of Ontario's (MNO) 33rd Annual General Assembly. This year's AGA will be held at Fort William Historical Park – 1350 King Rd, Thunder Bay, ON P7K 1L7 from Friday, August 14th – Sunday August 16th, 2026.
Register Here
We Aspire Golf Tournament
On Wednesday, August 12, 2026, join us for the We Aspire Golf Tournament, an exciting day of golf, great food, and friendly competition at Strathcona Golf Course in beautiful Thunder Bay!
Register Here
Who's already dreaming about summer? We sure are which is why registration is now open for all Métis youth in grades 10 to 12 to join us this summer at Awenda Provincial Park for a camping experience of a lifetime at the Eté Métis Youth Culture Camp! From July 16-20, spend nights under the stars and days filled with workshops, land-based knowledge, storytelling, cultural arts, and community building. Registration closes June 5 so secure your spot today!
Register Here
Métis Youth Leadership Conference 2026
Are you between the ages of 16-29? Join us for the 2026 MNO Youth Leadership Conference. This August, Métis youth from across Ontario will gather in Thunder Bay for our 10th Annual Youth Leadership Conference – a powerful opportunity to connect, learn, and lead.
Register Here
Métis Kinship and Caregiving Survey
Sharing your insights and can help advocate for a future child, youth, and family services system that is truly Métis-led and community-driven. The Métis National Council, in partnership with Edified Project Inc., is conducting a survey to help document Métis kinship and caregiving practices. The survey is completely anonymous and voluntary. Share your voice and help shape the future for our families!
Take the Survey Here
MNO School Food Program
The Métis Nation of Ontario (MNO) is proud to introduce the MNO School Food Program. This program aims to work progressively toward improved access to nutritious food; and help Métis children meet their nutritional and health needs, develop healthy food-related behaviours and attitudes, as well as food and nutrition knowledge and skills.
More Information Here
MNO ELCC's ONE Application is OPEN!
The Early Learning and Child Care’s One App is accepting applications. The application closes April 24, 2026, at 4:30 pm EDT.
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Financial Assistance Program
Are you a MNO citizen looking for funding support to help with the costs of Post-Secondary Education? The MNO can help!
More Information Here
Forests for the Trees Initiative
The Métis Nation of Ontario is helping grow stronger communities—one tree at a time. MNO citizens can apply to receive a minimum of five trees to plant in their communities through the Forests for the Future program.
Request for Trees Survey
Volunteer of the Year Award
Do you know a Métis citizen who has shown exceptional leadership, dedication, and service to the Métis Nation of Ontario and their community? Consider nominating them for the MNO Volunteer of the Year Award!
More Information Here
Women Honouring Women Award
The 2026 Women Honouring Women Award nominations are open! This award celebrates the remarkable contributions of Métis women who have a made a difference through volunteerism, leadership, and cultural advocacy. Nominations are open from March 1 to May 31, 2026.
More Information Here
Home Child Care Provider
The Métis Nation of Ontario is pleased to offer a Home Child Care Program to MNO citizens interested in becoming a Licensed Home Child Care Provider. Through this program, Métis Home Child Care Providers will receive start-up support, funding, and access to resources and professional development opportunities. Discover if Home Child Care is for you!
More Information Here
MNO AGA 2026 Vendor Fair
The Vendor Fair at the MNO 2026 Annual General Assembly will take place August 14–16 in Thunder Bay. Métis businesses, artists, and creators from the AGA’s Host Community (Region 2) are invited to apply by April 27. Métis businesses, artists, and creators from other MNO regions will be invited to apply by June 1.
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