Melanie Dene

For over 25 years, Melanie Dene has called Fort McMurray home. Deeply rooted in her Cree heritage and the land that raised her, Melanie is a proud advocate for Indigenous leadership in climate action, a dedicated mother, and an active community member.

Currently serving as Executive Manager with Indigenous Climate Action, Melanie is at the forefront of creating real, Indigenous-led climate solutions across the country. Her work allows her to collaborate with Indigenous leaders and communities, addressing the climate crisis through culturally grounded approaches. “The most rewarding part of my career,” Melanie says, “is being part of a team doing amazing work, creating real climate solutions led by Indigenous frontline leaders. And, I get to work with some incredible Indigenous leaders across these lands.”

Melanie’s path to becoming a climate advocate and community leader was shaped by her strong educational background. She holds a Master of Arts in Policy Studies from the University of Alberta, as well as a Bachelor of Arts in Native Studies and a Certificate in Indigenous Governance & Partnership. These academic accomplishments have equipped her to address complex policy challenges while staying grounded in her Cree values.

Throughout her life, Melanie’s Cree teachings have informed her sense of responsibility to her community. “As a Nehiyaw Iskwew, we are taught to take care of one another,” she explains. This foundational belief has fueled her community involvement and her work as a volunteer. Whether contributing to her daughter’s soccer league or quietly performing acts of kindness within vulnerable communities, Melanie views her volunteer efforts as part of her responsibility to those around her.

A tagline that resonates with her personal philosophy is simple but powerful: Walks in Prayer. These three words encapsulate the reverence Melanie holds for the land, water, and people in her community. She feels deeply connected to her ancestors and to the land itself, which she describes as part of her “blood memory.” It is this connection that fuels her desire to ensure the sustainability and future of Fort McMurray, a region she cherishes.

When asked about the influences that have shaped her involvement in the community, Melanie credits her role as a mother. “My children shaped my perspective,” she says. “As a parent, we lead by example of how we want our children to become. I have always taught them to treat others with kindness and respect, and that everyone deserves integrity.” It’s clear that these values—kindness, integrity, and a strong sense of responsibility—are central to both her family life and her professional pursuits.

Looking ahead, Melanie’s personal and professional goals remain as grounded as her current work. She sets small goals for herself, knowing that life can be unpredictable, but one ambition she’s considering is writing the LSAT and applying to law school in the next few years. In the meantime, she remains committed to advocating for her community and promoting Indigenous-led solutions in climate policy.

Melanie also sees significant challenges facing Fort McMurray today, including climate change, the high cost of living, and the lack of healthcare services and cultural representation. One of her dreams is to see a cultural centre built in the region, one that would showcase the rich history of the First Nations and Métis communities. “There is a robust history here, and those stories need to be shared,” she says. She hopes to play a role in bringing such a centre to life.

Melanie Dene is more than just a leader in climate action; she is a dedicated community builder whose work and personal values are intricately tied to the land, culture, and future of Fort McMurray. Her vision for a better tomorrow is rooted in her past, her heritage, and her commitment to making a difference. Through her work with Indigenous Climate Action and her unwavering belief in the power of community, Melanie is helping to shape the future of her region and beyond.

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