Randy Freese
Council member
I am originally from Edmonton, AB, treaty 6 territory, yet due to my adoption I mainly grew up in Southern Ontario. I have lived in Guelph since 2017, by way of many other cities in and around the GTHA, including North York, Toronto, Mississauga, Hamilton, Milton.
I am Plains Cree & Red River Metis and have been reconnecting to my culture and family, since I met my Birth Mother in 2000, and have travelling accross this country many times over to able to do so, since that time I have lived in 4 Provinces, and have engaged in Urban Native communities in most of the cities I have lived and spent time in. You can also read about my journey in my books, available on Amazon.
Feel free to click on any of my links above to get to know me better.
I am open to engage in conversation, there are many ways to contact and connect with me. I would suggest an email to start. Feel Free to reach out, we look forward to hearing from you.
Evaristo Ramos
Council member
I am Lipan Apache on my father’s side, and my continued research into my mother’s lineage has taken me deeper into Central Mexico. Born in Texas and now living in Canada since 2020, I became a Canadian citizen after moving here to help care for my late mother‑in‑law. I am also exploring pathways to Mexican citizenship so I can travel across Turtle Island more freely and stay connected to my roots and communities.
At 54, I remain deeply committed to learning, sharing knowledge, and finding ways to support Indigenous communities. My work focuses on building technical skills and services that honor and integrate traditional knowledge, with a strong emphasis on data sovereignty and community‑driven growth. I welcome opportunities for dialogue and collaboration that lead to meaningful, actionable change for Indigenous people worldwide.
Nathaniel Thomas
Council member
I am a 19‑year‑old from Guelph, where I have lived my whole life. My roots are Ojibwe, Bear Clan, from Saugeen First Nation. Although I did not grow up surrounded by my culture due to limited Indigenous support in Guelph, over the past five years I have been able to reconnect and become deeply involved with community.
I joined GICC because I know what it feels like to be disconnected from culture, and I want to help create opportunities for others who may be in the same position I was. While I am young, I bring gratitude, dedication, and a strong desire to give back to the community that has given me so much. I am always open to conversation, lending a hand, or answering questions. Miigwetch for taking the time to get to know me.