Navigating Energy Codes: Stories from Indigenous Builders
July 22 @ 11:00 am - 12:00 pm
Join us for an insightful conversation where community builders share their firsthand experiences constructing buildings in their own Indigenous Communities.
Hear directly from those who have been on the ground, navigating the complexities of energy code requirements while balancing tough decisions around code implementation and construction hurdles.
This session offers a candid look at the realities of building up-to-code structures in Indigenous Communities – from the challenges to the triumphs of better building performance and longevity.
Whether you’re in the middle of a construction project or just starting out, and if you’ve faced obstacles on the path to sustainable construction in Indigenous Communities, this webinar is for you.
Speakers:
Savannah Lobsinger
My name is Savannah. I am the Head of Housing and Infrastructure here at Matachewan First Nation. I’m a life-long resident of the Township of Matachewan and an affiliate member of Matachewan First Nation.
In September 2024, I was hired as the very first Housing Coordinator for Matachewan First Nation. Before my position was created, my community didn’t have any sort of dedicated department for Housing. I was hired to build the department from scratch. Since my background is in teaching and tourism, it has been an incredible journey with a lot of learning curves.
I have been graced with patience from our members and wonderful people from all over the country who have helped guide me to being the best possible Housing Department I can be as a staff of one. Attending conferences, learning sessions, webinars and connecting with all kinds of others who held similar titles in their communities, is the key that helped unlock this door for me.
I have since levelled up and have taken on Infrastructure as well, which let me tell you, is no easy feat. I have big dreams for my community and I plan to make all of them come true. I am currently working on getting 911 numbers, postal service and better cell service into the community, all while renovating our current housing stock. I’ve had 2 homes brought in to the community since I’ve been here, and there are plans to build 5 new ones in the next year or so.
As avid learner and lover of small town communities, this has been such a joyous opportunity that I plan to stick out for as long as they will have me. Nothing brings me more joy than learning and giving back. I’m pretty lucky that I can combine both into one role!
Ostap Kaminskyy
With over 20 years of experience across business, construction, and project management in different parts of the world, Ostap brings a practical and well-rounded perspective to every project. He holds a Master’s in Law, is a trained project manager, and also teaches safety courses like Working at Heights, WHMIS 2015, and Elevated Work Platforms. He’s an active member of PMI and passionate about sharing knowledge.
Chantelle Kechego
Chantelle Kechego is a proud member of the Chippewas of the Thames First Nation, a dedicated mother of three, and a grandmother. She currently serves as the Community Energy Coordinator within the Treaties, Lands, and Environment Department for her Nation, where she is helping to shape a more sustainable future for her community.
Most recently, Chantelle worked as a Project Steward with Indigenous Clean Energy’s Bringing it Home (BIH) Program, part of the Project Accelerator initiative. Over the course of 18 months, she and other participating members engaged in intensive capacity-building training, developed a strong network of mentors and technical experts, and initiated real-world energy efficiency projects within their communities.
When Chantelle first joined the BIH program, she had limited experience in the energy sector. However, through hands-on involvement and continued learning, she has significantly deepened her understanding of energy use and conservation. This journey has also helped her envision new possibilities for reducing the carbon footprint of her community and advancing local sustainability goals.
In her current role, Chantelle has helped grow her team by hiring two youth interns. Mentorship and youth engagement are especially important to her. As she explains,
“Being a mentor to youth has always been a passion of mine, as I believe our youth are our future. We need to invest in them so they can continue to lead the way for generations to come.”
Chantelle’s work reflects a powerful blend of leadership, community engagement, and environmental stewardship—grounded in her commitment to intergenerational learning and Indigenous sovereignty in clean energy.
