Melody Lepine is a member of the Mikisew Cree First Nation and was raised in the beautiful community of Fort Chipewyan, Alberta. Her family and community traditional teachings in environmental stewardship at a young age motivated her to advance studies in environmental conservation sciences at the University of Alberta and enroll in the Masters of Science program at Royal Roads University. The balance of teachings in both traditional environmental knowledge and western science has become Melody’s key strength in her professional career. Melody has worked for her community and First Nation for the past fourteen years. As the Director of the Mikisew Cree First Nation Government and Industry Relations department, she is responsible for overseeing all government and industry consultation pertaining to resource development that impacts the Mikisew Cree.