The Wiikwemkoong First Nation has acquired its own data centre to store information about its programs and services, including its education department. While the First Nation previously used third-party vendors to host its information online, Wiikemkoong Ogimaa (chief) Tim Ominika said that having its own centre empowers the First Nation to digitally preserve its data and culture. “Not saying we don’t trust any other IT [information technology] businesses out there, but you know, we are just trying to look at paving the way for Anishinabek communities such as our community here,” said Ominika. The data centre is expected to create local jobs and could enable the First Nation to make data storage arrangements with other Indigenous communities. Ominika also hopes that it sparks an interest in the STEM fields among the community’s youth.
