Staff
Rebecca Zagozewski - Executive Director
Rebecca Zagozewski brings a multidisciplinary background with both undergraduate and Master's degrees in Sociology (University of Saskatchewan), but her primary focus has been research and policy development for First Nations water. Rebecca is an uninvited settler to these lands. Originally born on Robinson-Huron Territory, now known as Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario, she has spent most of her life on Treaty 6 territory in both Prince Albert and Saskatoon, in Saskatchewan.
Rebecca facilitated the Healthy Water Working Group (HWWG), a subgroup of the Environmental Health Working Group, under the direction of the Federation of Sovereign Indigenous Nations (FSIN). The HWWG was mandated to develop multiple regulations and standards documents to support the care and control of drinking water and wastewater in Saskatchewan First Nations. Rebecca has assisted with the creation, incorporation and development of the SFNWA since August 2018.
Lisa Bains - Engagement Coordinator
Lisa Bains is an experienced program and event coordinator, proficient in planning large and mid-sized events in both the public and private sectors. She is also a passionate advocate and caregiver for Indigenous children in care. Lisa and her husband are committed to ensuring a safe and nurturing home while children are away from their birth parents. Lisa ensures all the children in her care are raised with an understanding of their culture and language and is an active member of the Wahkohtowin School Community.
Lisa was raised on a beef and grain farm near Blackstrap Lake, where she developed a passion for horses. She continues to ride for pleasure and to connect with nature.
Lisa holds a Bachelor of Science in Agriculture from the University of Saskatchewan (USask), with a degree in Agriculture Economics. She has also volunteered extensively, serving as a Committee Member for the Royal University Hospital Ball, contributing to the Patient and Family Care Experience Program at the USask College of Medicine, the Habitat for Humanity Fundraising Committee, and the Jim Pattison’s Children’s Hospital Fundraising Committee and Family Working Group.
Somto Ufondu - Program Coordinator
Somto Ufondu has extensive experience as an educator, business analyst, and IT professional, bringing a unique blend of skills to his roll at SFNWA. He collaborates with the Executive Director, Tribal Councils and First Nations representatives to design continuing education classes for First Nations water systems operators.
Somto's background in curriculum development, research, business analysis and IT allows him to approach his role with a holistic perspective, ensuring that SFNWA's education, training, networking and skills enhancement initiatives are informed by best practices in both technology and education.
In his work, Somto is driven by the SFNWA’s mission of strengthening capacity at the community level for the care and control of water on reserve. As a visible minority, he is acutely aware of the impacts of colonization on First Nations communities and he is committed to supporting them in any way he can. With his passion for education and community development, Somto is excited to make meaningful contributions to SFNWA’s mission and to support Saskatchewan First Nations communities.
Stacey Burgess - Administrative Assistant
Stacey was raised on Treaty 6 territory. He brings experience from a multitude of industries, with a strong background in sales, training, and planning. He has been involved with Sask Volleyball as a player, official, and event organizer for many years. He loves participating in any activity with his young son, golfing, bowling, and reading.
He is looking forward to contributing in every aspect he possibly can to SFNWA, as water is a foundation of life, and he believes it should be a basic human right for all.
Warrick Baijius - Curriculum Development Coordinator
Over the last 9 years, Warrick has been working with First Nations and Metis peoples and communities in Saskatchewan on a range of research projects, including source water protection planning and disaster risk reduction. He is also a sessional lecturer in Geography and Planning at the University of Saskatchewan. Building on his experiences with research and university teaching, and with a particular interest in adult education, Warrick is excited to contribute to the work of SFNWA in the service of First Nations water operators.
Warrick lives in Treaty 6 territory, is a community volunteer, and advocate for the environment and active transportation.
Kaia Newman - Event Assistant, Summer Student
Kaia is a proud member of the Métis Nation - Saskatchewan. She recently graduated from Aden Bowman Collegiate, where she gained valuable experience organizing effectively with the Student Council.
During her time at Aden Bowman, Kaia planned Pep Rallies, engaged with social media, and led her peers as Co-President of the student body. Kaia has also demonstrated her determination and passion by playing soccer, participating in choir, and acting in theatre throughout her high school career. She was on the high honour roll for the entirety of high school.
Additionally, Kaia hopes to give back to her Indigenous community. At the 2024 SIMFC Indigenous Gala, Kaia was awarded the Valedictorian and proudly represented her culture. She hopes to continue her commitment to community service through various acts of service.
Kaia is extremely excited to work as an Event Assistant at the Saskatchewan First Nations Water Association, where she hopes to use her planning and organizational skills to the best of her abilities.
