MISTISSINI, QC — Capping off a remarkable year of innovation and renewal in Eeyou Istchee’s tourism sector, the Nibiischii Corporation has been proudly recognized by two major tourism awards in Quebec and Canada. Nibiischii, an Eeyou/Eenou-managed company that oversees tourism activities on the Albanel-Mistassini-Waconichi Wildlife reserve, was a top three finalist for the ITAC Indigenous Tourism Award.
The ITAC award is a national distinction given by the Tourism Industry Association of Canada (TIAC) as part of their annual Canadian Tourism Awards. The Alliance de L’Industrie Touristique du Québec also honoured Nibiischii as part of its annual awards in October, naming the corporation as a top five finalist in the “Innovation et développement de l’offre” category.
The recognition comes at a meaningful time for Nibiischii, as it celebrates five years of management by the Cree community of Mistissini. Since then, the corporation has cemented itself as a world-class Indigenous tourism organization. Nibiischii inspires visitors, contributes to the local economy, and protects the land and waterways through one-of-a-kind cultural experiences and Mwakw lodging (four-season floating cabins and studio). An astronomical observatory and a cinepark on the water will also be inaugurated on the wildlife reserve in 2023. The cinepark is a particularly innovative attraction, as it will allow people to experience the nature of Eeyou Istchee while enjoying media presentations that contribute to mutual understanding, cultural awareness, and reconciliation.
Mireille Gravel, Executive Director of the Nibiischii Corporation, says collaboration and respect for Eeyou/Eenou knowledge, leadership, and way of life are key to the organization’s success. “Being named as a finalist for the TIAC and Alliance awards truly demonstrates the extraordinary tourism potential of our region and the talent and capabilities of the Cree communities. Local artists, tallymen, knowledge keepers, community leadership, staff members, and our ever-so-supportive partners have all contributed greatly to Nibiischii’s success. The Cree Outfitting and Tourism Association (COTA) has also been a phenomenal partner throughout our journey, even helping to prepare the application for both awards.”
For COTA Executive Director Robin McGinley, Nibiischii’s award season success is a sign of positive things to come. “We are seeing increased interest in Indigenous tourism, in Quebec and across Canada. Visitors are telling us they want to learn about our culture, and they want to travel in a way that respects the land. Eeyou Istchee is extremely well-positioned to be a leader in this new tourism landscape, and Nibiischii shows us what is possible as we move forward together. We are so proud of their accomplishments and look forward to continuing to support them and other tourism businesses in the region. “