Big Changes and New Beginnings at Indigenous Climate Action

Introducing: Jocelyn Joe-Strack

Earlier this year, you may have noticed that Indigenous Climate Action (ICA) began the search for a new Executive Director. After months of thoughtful recruitment and collaboration with Pathways Executive Search – an Indigenous-led firm rooted in the traditional territories of the Skwxwú7mesh (Squamish), Səl̓ílwətaʔ/Selilwitulh (Tsleil-Waututh), and xwməθkwəy̓əm (Musqueam) Nations – we’re excited to announce Jocelyn Joe-Strack as ICA’s Interim Executive Director! 

Dak’äläma, Jocelyn Joe-Strack is an Indigenous storyteller, scientist, professional Auntie and influencer from the Yukon’s Champagne and Aishihik First Nation. From her deep work with youth, and creation of the Yukon First Nation’s climate plan, the Reconnection Vision, Jocelyn promotes healing, education reform and community-reliance as pathways to transform our society, where we can all live in good relationships with ourselves, each other and the land. She is currently Board Chair of the David Suzuki Foundation, Trustee of the First Nations School Board, and recently resigned as Senior Advisor to the Auditor General of Canada. Jocelyn lives in Whitehorse with her husband, two daughters, and the Yukon community.

We are overjoyed to welcome Jocelyn into this role, bringing her wisdom, leadership, and deep roots in Indigenous communities to guide ICA as we turn the page into this next chapter.

With Jocelyn’s guidance, ICA will continue to grow from our strong foundation, nurturing connections, sharing knowledge, and working together toward a future where Indigenous voices lead the way on climate action.

Over the years, ICA has blossomed into a vibrant, interconnected community. Rooted in our shared values, guided by our principles, and strengthened by the collective wisdom of Indigenous peoples across Turtle Island, our foundation remains resilient. Together, we can continue to grow, learn, and deepen our impact, carrying our vision forward with purpose and heart. 

This transition also marks an exciting new chapter for Eriel Deranger, co-founder of Indigenous Climate Action. After receiving the Climate Breakthrough Award in December 2024, Eriel has been inspired to explore how ICA’s decade of work can spark a global initiative, elevating Indigenous climate leadership on an international level. With the support of ICA’s Board and Leadership Team, this vision will continue to grow within the circle of care and community that ICA has nurtured over the years. 

As a part of this evolution, Eriel will be stepping into a new role as President of Indigenous Climate Action, while Jocelyn takes on the role of Interim Executive Director. This shift represents both reflection and renewal – an opportunity to deepen ICA’s collective impact while creating space for new leadership and ideas.

Big things are coming your way. Eriel’s new project launches mid-November – something amazing is about to unfold!