Niagara Region Métis Council Members

Derrick Pont is a dedicated Métis leader, educator, and community advocate who has spent decades strengthening connections to Métis culture, history, and community in the Niagara Region. He is currently serving his fourth term as President of the Niagara Region Métis Council, where he has been an active Council member for 19 years. The Council, a Charter Métis Council of the Métis Nation of Ontario, is a volunteer-driven team of 12 Councilors committed to supporting and growing the local Métis community.

For more than 17 years, Derrick has shared the Métis way of life and history with students and community, bringing cultural knowledge into classrooms and community spaces. His experience as a longtime volunteer with Scouts Canada continues to shape how he engages with young people, encouraging curiosity, confidence, and a strong sense of identity.

Derrick is deeply committed to youth mentorship. As a Youth Advisor with the Niagara Region Métis Council, he works closely with Métis youth aged 13–17, creating opportunities for them to learn, connect with their culture, and grow as future leaders. He also supports the Métis Nation of Ontario’s Early Learning and Child Care team as a Knowledge Keeper, sharing stories and knowledge at family camps.

Beyond his work with the Council, Derrick serves as Chair of Niagara College’s Indigenous Education Circle, a role he has held for more than 10 years. He has also previously served on the Indigenous Education Circles for both the Niagara Catholic District School Board and the District School Board of Niagara, where he built strong relationships that continue today. Derrick is also a member of the Niagara Indigenous Community Advisory Board, where he brings the Metis voice to the local municipal governments. He is known for building strong, respectful relationships across communities and is widely regarded as a trusted and grounded leader. A developing Métis artist, Derrick takes pride in his ancestral roots and continues to express his connection to culture through both his work and his art.

Bio coming soon.

Jean-Jacques serves as a Senator on the Niagara Region Métis Council, where he is dedicated to preserving and promoting Métis culture, values, and community engagement. He is employed at the Fort Eris Native Friendship Centre as a Life Long Care Coordinator, providing holistic and culturally sensitive support to Indigenous individuals and families. Jean-Jacques is currently completing Death Doula training through the Home Hospice Association (HHA), demonstrating his commitment to compassionate end-of-life care. He has also successfully completed Bereavement Training through Hospice Niagara, equipping him with the knowledge and empathy to support those navigating grief and loss with dignity and respect.

Bio coming soon.

Bio coming soon.

Bio coming soon.

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Doug Hiltz is a Métis Nation of Ontario citizen, with ancestral roots in the Red River Métis community, including the Norquay, Sinclair, Anderson and Favell family lines. Guided by a commitment to community, respect, and learning, he works to bring people together through initiatives like Indigenous Crafters – Gathering of Makers, supporting artisans and cultural connection.

Professionally, I’m a Realtor serving the Niagara Region and beyond, passionate about helping people find not just a house, but a place to truly call home. I’m also a proud Métis mom of two, and most of my favourite moments are spent adventuring with my kids. We love being outdoors — whether it’s camping, hiking, or exploring the beauty of our region.

Sustainability and community connection are at the heart of both my personal life and the way I show up in my work.

Lorraine is a proud Métis citizen with ancestral connections to the historic Métis communities of Sault Ste. Marie and Penetanguishene, with family roots tied to the Drummond Island Migration. She carries a deep respect for her heritage and is passionate about sharing Métis culture, history, and traditions with others.

As a Councillor-at-Large with the Niagara Region Métis Council, Lorraine is an active and dedicated contributor to community events, initiatives, and workshops. She regularly presents “Métis 101” at family camps and cultural gatherings, helping to create accessible and meaningful learning opportunities for community members of all ages.

Lorraine has also served on the Indigenous Education Circles for both the Niagara Catholic District School Board and the District School Board of Niagara, supporting Indigenous education and awareness within local schools.

A three-time world dragon boat champion, Lorraine credits her strength and success on the water to her Métis heritage, reflecting a deep cultural connection to paddling and waterways. A breast cancer survivor, she brings resilience, compassion, and heart to her work. Lorraine is also an active volunteer who supports local organizations and community initiatives, and is known for her kindness and care in uplifting others.