Melissa Nevin is a proud member of Sipekne’katik First Nation. She holds an advanced Bachelor of Arts in Geography from Saint Mary’s University, and has continued her education in public policy, geography, and project management. Melissa joined APC as the Director of Fisheries and Integrated Resources in October 2018.

As director, Melissa works with the Fisheries and Integrated Resources Team to address fisheries and environmental related issues, policy initiatives, identify opportunities, and provide updates to the communities on current and upcoming issues. Her role also consists of coordinating and collaborating with Government, Academia, Industry, Indigenous organizations, Atlantic First Nations communities including the Atlantic Aboriginal Aquatic Research Ocean Management (AAROM) bodies and Commercial Fisheries Liaison Coordinators (CFLCs). Furthermore, she also sits on several committees and working groups, focusing on First Nation policy and fisheries resource management.

Prior to her position at APC, she served as a Mi’kmaq Consultation Researcher for the Kwikmu’kw Maw-klusuaqn Negotiations Office (KMKNO) for eleven years. She also worked with the Un’amak’i Institute of Natural Resources (UINR). Melissa has trained in public management and policy and has worked on National Parks, Fisheries, Indigenous Knowledge, and participated in various committees on energy, mining, environment, climate change, fisheries, both on a provincial and national level.

Melissa is a travel enthusiast and has visited over 9 different countries, including much of Canada and the United States. Outside of work commitments, Melissa enjoys spending time outdoors hiking, walking, and swimming, and spends time with her friends and family enjoying a good meal and traditional foods.