Horizontal_Original
Search

Our People,Our Data

Message from the Chief

We’re proud to introduce an initiative that reflects who we are as a community: Our People, Our Data.

This is not just about collecting statistics. It is about hearing our voices, understanding our realities, and shaping our future based on information that comes directly from us. When we lead our own data collection, we tell our story in our own words, and we build a clearer picture of what our community truly needs to thrive.

By participating in this survey, you are helping strengthen our programs, services, and planning. Your input matters. Every answer contributes to a stronger, healthier, and more united future for our people.

Below, you will find more details about the survey itself: what it is about, why it is important, who can participate, how your data is protected, and more.

Let us take this step together. Let us shape the future with our people, for our people.

Our People, Our Data

What is it?

Our People, Our Data is a community-driven survey designed to gather meaningful information about our population, wellness, culture, employment, education, and more.

It’s not just a data collection tool—it’s a way for us to tell our own story, understand our current realities, and take informed steps toward the future we envision.

The survey is divided into three sections and covers aspects that truly matter to our community—things that are often not written down, but are deeply felt and experienced.

Why is it important and what is our goal?

This survey is important because it helps us truly understand the needs, strengths, and realities of our community. While some data exists, it doesn’t capture the full picture, especially the everyday experiences of our people. By gathering our own information, we can make better decisions, plan more effectively, and ensure programs and services truly reflect the voices and priorities of all Waswanipi members.

Who can participate?

Everyone from our community is invited to participate—whether you live in Waswanipi, recently moved back, or are living away from the community are invited to complete the survey. If you’re a member of Waswanipi, your voice matters. Every answer contributes to a stronger, more complete picture of who we are.

What to Expect from the Survey

The survey is designed to be simple, respectful of your time, and easy to complete. On average, it takes about 20 to 30 minutes to fill out, depending on how much you choose to share.

The survey is divided into three main sections:

  • Population & Employment – including questions about age, family composition, education and work status.
  • Health & Wellness – covering physical and well-being, access to medication, and lifestyle habits.
  • Culture & Connection – focusing on language, cultural identity, land use, and community involvement.

You can complete the survey in one sitting or come back to finish it later. It will be available online, through door-to-door visits by CFNW representatives, and during select community events like the General Assembly.

You’ll also find the link on our Facebook page, CFNW website, and on flyers posted around the community.

Whether you choose to respond online or in person, the process is straightforward, and support will be available if you need help at any point

Yes, some data already exists—from trusted organizations like the Cree Health Board, Cree School Board, Statistics Canada and Cree Nation Government. These sources provide some valuable information about health, education, and population statistics.

However, this data is often incomplete or generalized and doesn’t capture the full reality of life in our community, especially when it comes to personal well-being, cultural connection, or unmet needs.

Our People, Our Data aims to fill in those gaps by collecting first-hand information directly from community members—so we can tell our story in our own words and build a stronger future based on our truth.

Yes—absolutely. Your responses are completely confidential!

  • Your name will not be linked to your answers.
  • All data will be stored securely and managed under First Nations data sovereignty laws and legislations, which means we decide how our data is used.
  • Your privacy is protected at every step.

We take this responsibility seriously—and your trust even more so.

Why Data is Important and How it Can Help Us

There Are Urgent Needs in the Community

Community members face challenges such as limited housing, unemployment, upkeep of infrastructure and access to some services. These issues require focused attention from leadership.

Decision Makers Must Balance Many Factors

Leaders want to respond to people’s needs, but they also have to work within budgets and balance different expectations. To make the best decisions for everyone, they need clear direction—and that starts with your input.

Data Makes the Picture Clear

When data is gathered directly from the people, leaders gain a clearer, more grounded understanding of what’s truly needed—rooted in real experiences and priorities.

With Your Input, Better Decisions Happen

When data is missing, there’s a risk that the important issues and critical needs are overlooked. When the community shares their input, leaders gain a clearer view of what matters most and can align resources where they’ll have the most meaningful impact.

This Survey Completes Missing Piece
To make thoughtful, well-informed decisions for the future, leadership would like to rely on strong data. Some of this information already exist with trusted sources; health information from the Cree Health Board, education data from the Cree School Board, and employment statistics from the Cree Nation Government. Further more, what’s missing is a deeper understanding of everyday experiences in the community. This survey helps capture the voices, lived realities, and cultural practices that often go unrecorded. By combining these insights to existing data, we create a more complete picture of community priorities, helping ensure that decisions truly reflect the needs of the people who live in the community - beyond the usual consultations.
This Survey Completes Missing Piece
To make thoughtful, well-informed decisions for the future, leadership would like to rely on strong data. Some of this information already exist with trusted sources; health information from the Cree Health Board, education data from the Cree School Board, and employment statistics from the Cree Nation Government. Further more, what’s missing is a deeper understanding of everyday experiences in the community. This survey helps capture the voices, lived realities, and cultural practices that often go unrecorded. By combining these insights to existing data, we create a more complete picture of community priorities, helping ensure that decisions truly reflect the needs of the people who live in the community - beyond the usual consultations.

Launching Data Collection Survey!

Take the Survey Here!

Be Heard – Take the Survey!

We’re excited to announce that our data collection survey has officially launched!

This community-driven initiative is designed to gather meaningful insights on topics such as wellness, culture, education, employment, and more.

Your participation matters and will help shape programs and services that reflect the needs of our people.

Do you have questions or feedback?

Share with us!