The Cree Outfitting and Tourism Association (COTA) and Eeyou Istchee Tourism (EIT) are pleased to announce the results of our Board of Directors elections, held last week during our Annual General Meeting (AGM) in Wemindji. We extend a warm welcome to COTA and EIT’s new President, Conrad Mianscum, and Vice-President, Priscilla Bosum, as well as all community representatives who have been elected for a 3-year term:
COTA Board of Directors:
- Conrad Mianscum – Mistissini Representative, President
- Priscilla Bosum – Oujé-Bougoumou Representative, Vice-President
- Chris Cooper – Waswanipi Representative
- Anderson Jolly – Nemaska Representative
- Stacy Bear – Waskaganish Representative
- Allyson Mark-Stewart – Eastmain Representative
- Shawna L. Georgekish – Wemindji Representative
- Edward Bearskin – Chisasibi Representative
- Joshua Kawapit – Whapmagoostui Representative
- Alexander Moses – CNG Representative (appointed)
- Johnny & Louise B. Saganash – Elders Committee Representatives (appointed)
- Washaw Sibi Observer (vacant)
EIT Board of Directors:
- Conrad Mianscum – President
- Priscilla Bosum – Vice-President
- Edward Bearskin
Following the AGM and elections, COTA hosted its annual Tourism Conference, a dynamic event where tourism operators from across Eeyou Istchee gathered for three days of dialogue, learning, and connection. Reflecting on the event, newly-elected COTA & EIT President Conrad Mianscum said: “Tourism has the power to strengthen our communities, showcase the beauty of our territory, and share our culture and stories with the world in a way that is both respectful and authentic. Together, we can ensure this distinctive industry serves our communities for generations to come.”
As we enthusiastically welcome our new Board of Directors, we extend our heartfelt thanks to the outgoing board members whose leadership and dedication have guided our organizations through significant milestones, challenges, and successes: Irene Otter (Waswanipi), Ron Simard (Oujé-Bougoumou), Gilbert Baribeau (Mistissini), Stanley Shashaweskum (Wemindji), Elvis Weapenicappo (Eastmain), and Isaac Masty (Whapmagoostui). Serving on the Board of Directors is a profound commitment, and the efforts of our outgoing board members have helped shape a sustainable, vibrant future for Cree tourism.
We also extend sincere appreciation to Anderson Jolly and Edward Bearskin, who served as Presidents of COTA and EIT respectively during the previous term. Both Mr. Jolly and Mr. Bearskin will continue their valuable contributions as community representatives.
The new Board of Directors step into their roles at a time of great opportunity, innovation, and momentum in the Cree tourism industry. We look forward to their leadership as we continue our longstanding mission to “develop and implement a collective vision for a world-class, sustainable tourism industry in Eeyou Istchee that is in harmony with Cree culture and values, and that involves a partnership with Cree communities, institutions, and businesses.”