Métis citizen from Thunder Bay recognized with Community Impact Award
Educator, community leader, resident of Thunder Bay and proud Métis citizen Emily Kerton has spent more than 15 years of cumulative volunteer service in her community. Making a lasting impact on the social, cultural, and environmental wellbeing of the community, her approach to service is rooted in inclusion, care for community, and a strong sense of responsibility to the land.
“I’ve lived in Thunder Bay my entire life,” says Emily. “I’m deeply connected to the community of Thunder Bay—from the people here to the rocks, waters, and trees.”
This is why it was no surprise that she was selected to be the recipient of the 2026 Spirit of Thunder Bay Award.
The Spirit of Thunder Bay Award recognizes an individual who has volunteered time to improve and enrich the community of Thunder Bay.
Alongside her role as Senior Manager of Indigenous and Northern Partnerships at Science North, Emily has dedicated more than two decades to volunteering in her community. She has served on the volunteer board for the Thunder Bay Field Naturalists and spent several years welcoming youth from across Canada to Thunder Bay through an organization called Ocean Bridge.
Emily has also volunteered with Leadership Thunder Bay, returning each year to support new cohorts and community events. A strong advocate for sustainability, she has spent more than a decade promoting the reduction of single-use plastics through such initiatives as sewing and distributing more than 200 reusable produce bags for a local farmers’ market.
Her volunteer efforts include serving meals at the local emergency shelter, supporting organizations like Roots Community Food Centre, judging regional science fairs, tree plantings and community cleanups, and volunteering at her son’s school.
Emily says that, “when it comes to environmental advocacy, we all have the capacity to do something. Even the smallest action will help in the long run.”
“I come from a long line of very talented woodsman, hunters/fishers, farmers, crafters, makers, and lovers of the natural world,” says Emily. “My ancestors are guiding me in everything I do. Now as a parent, I want to leave behind a world where my son can live a long and healthy life.”
Moving forward, Emily wants to continue to inspire young people to feel inspired by the wonders of the natural world.
“I often think about how youth today won’t be interested in protecting our lands and waters if they don’t feel an intrinsic connection to it,” Emily said. “It is my duty to help them feel curious and excited about the world around them.”