Visionary
Supportive
Dedicated
Experienced
Ethical
Collaborative
Knowledgeable
Professional 

Commitment:
Dedicated to serving the community with empathy, integrity, and openness.
Experience:
Proven leadership and extensive experience in First Nations governance.
Engagement:
Focused on ensuring the community’s voice is heard and valued in decision-making.
Transparency:
Committed to open and honest communication, ensuring everyone is informed and involved.
Progress:
Focused on strategic planning and sustainable development for a brighter future for our members and our community.
Justice:
Correcting inequalities and ensuring fairness for all.

Hello, my name is Nikki van Oirschot, and I am a proud citizen of Caldwell First Nation. My spirit name is Mashkawizii Nendamowin Kwe ("Carries Strong Mind"). I am running for the position of Chief in the Caldwell First Nation election for the 2024-2027 term.

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Engaging Our Community

Our members are spread across North America and beyond. My vision is to engage all members in meaningful discussions about our Nation's needs. We must have open conversations about unity, ensuring every member knows their voice matters, their concerns are taken seriously, and their questions are answered thoroughly.

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Honoring Our History and Unity

For 230 years, our community has been separated while fighting for our lands. Though we may have disagreements, differences of opinion, and even moments of frustration, we must resolve our differences peacefully and respectfully. Our unity is our strength.

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Defending Our Rights and Lands

As Chief, I will fiercely defend the lands and rights of Caldwell First Nation and its members. We will support Caldwell and member-owned businesses, allowing them to compete, grow, and prosper. Working with the Council and administration, we will expand services based on community needs and ensure every Council member's voice is valued.

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Economic Development and Job Creation

We will implement strategic initiatives for economic development and job creation, including establishing a business hub for on-reserve business registry. We will focus on sustainable growth and development projects benefiting the entire community. Exploring profit-sharing policies, we will ensure all members, on-reserve and off-reserve, benefit from our collective wealth, with special considerations for our seniors.

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Health and Wellness Programs

Prioritizing health and wellness, we will dedicate funds to elder programming, events, and engagement. We will promote cultural and recreational activities to enhance community life. Additionally, we will address and correct policies that marginalize our people, such as opening the $500/month wellness payment to all members indefinitely, not just those who were members by the arbitrary date of June 2023.

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Transparent and Accessible Leadership

I will request that Council be available for a weekly open session dedicated to membership questions and feedback in a healthy and respectful environment. Transparent communication with all members will be a priority, providing updates on projects, development, and Council activities.

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Advocating for Our Rights

I will advocate for the Federal Government to address the generational impacts of enfranchisement and other public policies affecting us. We will work to expand our Reserve, prioritize outstanding land claims, and include your voices in major decisions, sharing information about laws and developments impacting Caldwell.

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Accountability and Fresh Leadership

We will reduce the costs of Council meetings and travel, ensuring Chief and Council accountability. With fresh ideas under a new generation of leadership, we will work towards a prosperous future for the next seven generations.

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As Chief, I will hear you, be your voice, and make it known that your voice matters. Together, we will build a stronger, more united Caldwell First Nation. Chi-miigwech for your support.