As part of Early Childhood Week, the FNQLHSSC wishes to highlight the qualities, merits and actions of dedicated people who work with young children on a daily basis. Here are portraits for two exceptional people, Mario Piétacho, manager of the Mikupishakan childcare centre, and Céline Pénosway, coordinator of the Lac-Simon First Nations Head Start Program, who truly contribute to the well-being of young children in First Nations communities.

Mario Piétacho 

Mario Piétacho, who has been the manager of the Mikupishakan childcare centre (formerly the Garderie Uatik) since 2012, is an exceptional figure in the field of early childhood. Originally from Ekuanitshit, he is proud of his culture and the preservation of his community’s Innu identity is very important to him. 

As a father of three children, Mr. Piétacho greatly appreciates the company of his family. This presence reflects his commitment to family life and his dedication to little ones. He believes that his responsibility is not limited to the childcare centre, and that it also extends to his own home. 

What Mr. Piétacho enjoys in his work is hearing children say his name with enthusiasm and seeing their faces light up when they meet him. He says that these precious moments are the true reward of his profession, and that they make every day spent with the children special. 

Mr. Piétacho began his career in the field of child education in 2006 and, since 2012, he has dedicated himself mainly to young children, thus contributing to the development and fulfillment of the young Innu generation. 

One of his main concerns is ensuring that young people do not lose their First Nations language and cultural identity. He believes that preserving these unique and precious elements of Innu culture is essential. Mr. Piétacho hopes that significant efforts will be made to guarantee the preservation of the First Nations language and culture, thus allowing future generations to continue to flourish in their cultural heritage. His determination in this regard is a source of inspiration for all those who know him. 

We would like to express our deepest gratitude to Mr. Mario Piétacho for his invaluable commitment to the preservation of Innu culture and the wellness of young children. His actions and dedication are a source of inspiration, and we warmly thank him for his exceptional contributions to his community and to the development of future generations. Tshinashkumitin, Mr. Piétacho!

Céline Pénosway

Since 2009, Céline Pénosway has held the position of First Nations Head Start Program (FNHSP) Coordinator in Lac-Simon. Ms. Pénosway is the proud mother of six children and the happy grandmother (kukum) of six grandchildren, which fills her with joy. 

In addition to being devoted to her family, she has dedicated her life to the wellness of young children for over 23 years. Her adventure began in June 2000 at the Takinagan childcare centre, and since 2004, she has been devotedly involved in the Aboriginal Head Start on Reserve Program. 

As a FNHSP Coordinator, Ms. Pénosway ensures the planning of annual activities, calendars, and schedules for groups of children. Organizing outings with parents and children is also one of her priorities, particularly cultural activities that provide enriching experiences. When travelling on educational outings, she ensures the young children’s safety as the minibus driver. 

In 2007, Ms. Pénosway took the initiative to submit a construction request for the facilities of the FNHSP Program in Lac-Simon. Ten years later, in 2017, she was officially notified that the new structure was ready. The arrangements were completed in September 2018. 

In the years to come, she wishes to continue to develop and improve the existing program. She would like to expand the premises, particularly to have a large room for the little ones. Her dream would be to welcome groups of four-year-old children who are not yet in school. In addition, she would like to have access to a more spacious gross motor room for special activities such as Christmas, mini-graduation or even the start of the school year as part of the First Nations Head Start Program. She is very excited to see these projects come to fruition and to be able to offer new opportunities for learning and growth to young children. Her commitment to the wellness and education of children is boundless! 

The FNQLHSSC is honoured to be able to rely on Ms. Pénosway and her exceptional commitment to children. She is a role model for all people who work in the early childhood environment. Her passion and determination have a significant and lasting impact on children’s development. Megwetch for lighting the way for children on their path to a promising future!