How do we protect the waters that sustain our communities — and what does it take to turn a personal passion into a lifelong career?

In this episode of The Well Ended Podcast, we head to the banks of the North Saskatchewan River for a conversation with Kirsten Letendre, a proud Métis scientist whose journey from Lac Ste. Anne to a career in lake management has been shaped by culture, community, and support.

Kirsten shares how her connection to land and water began early in life, and how receiving a Belcourt Brosseau Métis Award (BBMA) through Edmonton Community Foundation helped her pursue post-secondary education and build a path in environmental science.

Now working with the Alberta Lake Management Society, she helps protect Alberta’s lakes through monitoring, research, and public education. Her story is a powerful reminder that when students are supported, communities benefit — and the impact can ripple far beyond the classroom.

Show Notes:

Our guest today was Kirsten Letendre, who shared her journey as a Métis scientist and water steward, and how support from the Belcourt Brosseau Métis Awards helped shape her path.

Read Kirsten Letendre’s story, From Lures to Legislation, in the Fall 2025 edition of Thrive Magazine.

Learn more about the Belcourt Brosseau Métis Awards

Learn more about the Alberta Lake Management Society

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The Well-Endowed Podcast is produced by Edmonton Community Foundation.

The post EPISODE 203 – Rooted in Water, Guided by Community appeared first on Edmonton Community Foundation.