Keptin Roger Augustine, former AFN Regional Chief and now a respected Keptin in the Mi’kmaq Grand Council, is the guiding force behind Workforce Warriors. As President and gatekeeper of all initiatives, his leadership ensures that every project aligns with the values of reconciliation, cultural reconnection, and empowerment for Indigenous Peoples.
A true warrior at heart, Keptin’s journey has been defined by service, advocacy, and visionary leadership. A tireless champion for Indigenous education and workforce development, he has been a trailblazer in politics, economic growth, environmental protection, and addictions treatment. His legacy of relationship-building, negotiation, and conflict resolution has been instrumental in advancing reconciliation through peace and friendship.
Keptin’s dedication extends far beyond his 23 years of service with the Assembly of First Nations (AFN), where he represented New Brunswick and Prince Edward Island as Regional Chief from 2008 to 2021. As a member of the AFN Executive Committee, he played a pivotal role in shaping national policies on key Indigenous issues. Before that, from 1980 to 1996, he served as Chief of Natoaganeg (Eel Ground) First Nation, where he pioneered innovative approaches to governance, economic development, and healing within his community.
A Legacy of Leadership & Advocacy
As a co-founder of the Atlantic Policy Congress (APC), the political voice of First Nations Chiefs in Atlantic Canada, Keptin worked to ensure openness, dialogue, and collaboration. His influence can also be seen in the North Shore Mi’kmaq Tribal Council, which he co-founded, and his leadership as Chairman of the Centre for Indigenous Environmental Resources and Commissioner for the Indian Land Claims Commission.
In 1981, Keptin stood among dozens of Indigenous leaders from across Canada to sign the historic Declaration of Aboriginal and Treaty Rights, an act that laid the foundation for Indigenous self-determination today.
With formal training in alternative dispute resolution and mediation from the University of Waterloo, Keptin has played a key role in navigating crisis situations, always guided by the belief that peace and friendship are the foundation for cross-cultural relationships.
A Trailblazer in Addictions Treatment & Wellness
One of Keptin’s most profound contributions has been in the field of addictions treatment and mental wellness. After earning specialized credentials in Drug and Alcohol Education from St. Francis Xavier University, he pioneered groundbreaking programs in his community, integrating culturally relevant approaches to healing. He introduced an addictions curriculum to the Eel Ground Federal School and established multiple treatment initiatives that have helped countless individuals reclaim their lives.
As Chairman of the National Drug and Alcohol Advisory Board, Keptin received numerous awards for his work in the field. His leadership was recognized with the Order of New Brunswick (2014) and, most recently, the Government of Canada’s Meritorious Service Medal (2023) for his outstanding contributions to reducing drug and alcohol addiction in Indigenous communities.
Building a Stronger Future Through Workforce Development & Reconciliation
Keptin believes that respect, open-mindedness, and strong communication are the cornerstones of resolving sociocultural conflicts and fostering successful business partnerships. With this philosophy in mind, he co-founded GITPO, a partnership that supports natural-resource and economic development projects through negotiation, capital investment, and engineering services. As Chair, he continues to lead initiatives that prioritize both economic success and Indigenous rights.
Furthering his commitment to Indigenous well-being, cultural reconnection, and workforce development, Keptin founded and serves as President of both Gitpo Spirit Lodge and Workforce Warriors Inc. Under his guidance, these organizations take a holistic approach to healing, learning, and leadership, creating innovative training programs and wellness initiatives that are transforming Indigenous communities.
A Voice for Residential School & Day School Survivors
As a residential school survivor, Keptin understands firsthand the deep scars left by Canada’s assimilation policies. He was appointed by the courts as one of two representative plaintiffs in the McLean v. Canada class action, advocating for those who suffered harm in Federal Indian Day Schools. His voice and personal story became a beacon of strength for countless survivors.
Today, he co-chairs the McLean Day School Settlement Corporation, which administers a $200 million legacy fund to support healing and wellness programs for day school survivors across Canada.
A Visionary for Indigenized Development
The work of Workforce Warriors is deeply rooted in the dreams Keptin has long held for Indigenous self-determination in Canada. Whether in workforce development, relationship-building, or conflict resolution, Keptin remains steadfast in his commitment to advancing reconciliation through peace, friendship, and cultural strength.
With a warrior’s heart and a healer’s spirit, Keptin Roger Augustine continues to pave the way for future generations, ensuring that Indigenous voices, traditions, and leadership are at the forefront of Canada’s future.
