Aug. 18, 2026

On July 31, representatives from The North West Company, North Star Air (NSA), and the local Northern store joined Sachigo Lake First Nation in northwestern Ontario to celebrate the Nation’s 50th anniversary. North West proudly supported the milestone gathering honouring the history, culture, and achievements of Sachigo Lake First Nation in many meaningful ways. 

Pictured above: (From right to left) North West team including Corporate Responsibility Director Andrew Thunder, General Manager Keri Cress, Director of Store Operations Jana Wilson & Canadian Operations Vice President Mike Beaulieu presenting a cheque to Chief and Council Members.

The gathering brought together residents, community leaders, and visitors from neighbouring communities for a week-long celebration featuring a variety of activities for all ages. To support the gathering, the North West team contributed $10,000, helping ensure the event’s success as it welcomed more than 300 people each day. 

“The anniversary was an opportunity to honour the Elders, leaders, families and community members who helped shape Sachigo Lake First Nation and build the community we know today,” shared Chief Robert Beardy. “The celebrations recognized the many accomplishments and changes the community has experienced over the past 50 years, while remembering those who came before us and helped lay the foundation for future generations.”

Pictured above: North Star Air Vice President Tom Meillieur serving community members with a barbeque meal (left); President and Chief Operating Officer Jeff Stout giving away apparel.

North Star Air, the Thunder Bay-based airline providing cargo and passenger services to First Nations communities across northwestern Ontario, and part of The North West Company since 2017, also joined the festivities. The team served food and refreshments and distributed custom apparel to community members.

As part of NSA’s long-standing revenue sharing agreement with partner communities, the team presented an $853,978 cheque to Sachigo Lake First Nation and Council. The presentation marked a significant milestone, bringing the total amount returned to northern Ontario communities to $15 million year to date.

At North West, we are proud to continue supporting the communities we serve through meaningful partnerships, investments, and initiatives that strengthen their future growth.