September 1, 2023, was the date of the recent by-election that brought in the new Chief of SIFN, Etienne Rich. Born and raised in Sheshatshiu, he brings with him a wealth of experience in management and public life. In the early part of his career Etienne was the Director of Housing, a post he held for six years until he joined the Council of SIFN from 2003 until 2009. In 2014 he was elected as a Board member of Innu Nation and in 2017 he became the Deputy Grand Chief. In 2020 he was elected Grand Chief of Innu Nation where he served until 2023. He has forged connections with indigenous nations across the country expanding his knowledge and leadership skills.
Chief Rich is also a family man with nine children ranging in age from two years to 29 years. He describes himself as a man of the people dedicated to his community. His goal is to bring a fresh voice to Sheshatshiu First Nation with his belief in strong communications and a high level of transparency and fairness.
Completing the Custom Election Code is high on his list of priorities as well as building a cohesive Council through effective governance.
SHESHATSHIU INNU FIRST NATION 