Niilo McCloud Riksman Edwards: A Legacy of Leadership and Love
Niilo McCloud Riksman Edwards, born in Alert Bay on a stormy night in 1986, was a man whose life story is as remarkable as the journey he took from the remote fishing village of Sointula to becoming a key figure in the advancement of Indigenous communities in Canada. His life’s journey was shaped by resilience, entrepreneurial spirit, and a deep commitment to making a difference.
From a young age, Niilo demonstrated his leadership skills by organizing work crews and creating economic opportunities in a place where resources were limited. His entrepreneurial mindset and dedication to his community led him to pursue a career focused on policy and public service. After finishing high school, Niilo’s career path took him to work for his local Member of the Legislative Assembly (MLA) and study public administration at the University of Ottawa. His experiences there helped him secure a position as a constituency advisor in Ottawa's House of Commons. It was during this time that Niilo began working closely with Canadian Senator Gerry St. Germain, a Métis leader, who became a mentor to him.
Also Read:- Canada’s Immigration Overhaul: Minister Miller Calls for Discipline Amid Challenges
- Mandhana and Ghosh Shine as India Women Secure T20I Series Victory Over West Indies
Niilo’s journey was not just about personal success, but about using his position to improve the lives of others. Upon St. Germain’s retirement, Niilo returned to British Columbia where he took on a pivotal role with the First Nations Financial Management Board. It was from this position that Niilo co-founded the First Nations Major Projects Coalition (FNMPC), a non-profit organization designed to bridge the gap between First Nations and governments or private sectors to create opportunities for Indigenous communities. The work of the FNMPC over the past decade has been groundbreaking, securing equity stakes for First Nations in major infrastructure projects across Canada and advocating for policies like the National Indigenous Loan Guarantee program. Niilo’s leadership helped advance these initiatives, improving access to investment capital and creating a path for greater economic self-sufficiency for Indigenous peoples.
Niilo’s impact on his community and the country was recognized on the national stage. In 2024, he was named one of TIME Magazine’s 100 Most Influential Climate Leaders in Business and was awarded BC Business Entrepreneur of the Year. However, Niilo’s work was never just about accolades. His legacy is rooted in the deep connections he made with people and his selfless commitment to causes he believed in, including his advocacy for organ donation.
In 2018, Niilo’s life took a personal turn when he faced kidney failure. His wife, Rachael Durie, gave him the ultimate gift—a kidney, which saved his life and became the cornerstone of their remarkable love story. Their bond captured the hearts of many, particularly when their journey was featured in a Global News segment in 2023.
Sadly, Niilo passed away on December 16, 2024, at the age of 37, after battling post-transplant lymphoma, a complication caused by the immunosuppressive medications required to protect his transplanted kidney. Niilo leaves behind his wife, Rachael, his mentor Gerry St. Germain, his best friend Mark Podlasly, the FNMPC team, and countless others whose lives he touched through his work, love, and generosity.
As we remember Niilo, we honor not just his professional achievements, but the incredible man he was—the visionary, the loving husband, the tireless advocate for his people. His legacy will continue to inspire and guide the work of those who follow in his footsteps.
Read More:
0 Comments