Lance Copegog is the Administrative Coordinator for AFOA Ontario and a proud Anishinabe from Chimnissing (Beausoleil First Nation), part of the Williams Treaty and Coldwater Narrows. He has represented Anishinabek Nation and served its 39 communities across Ontario.

As Administrative Coordinator for AFOA Ontario, Lance Copegog oversees the chapter’s administrative functions, supports the President and Board, manages communications, leads events and member engagement, liaises with AFOA Canada and other chapters, and maintains strong relationships with First Nations communities and Indigenous organizations to advance AFOA Ontario’s priorities.

From 2021 to 2024, Lance managed the youth initiatives of the Chiefs of Ontario as the Youth Sector Lead where he worked on behalf of the 133 First Nations in Ontario, and prior to that, served as the Executive Assistant to Chief and Council for Beausoleil First Nation. Lance has provided advice to the Government of Ontario, Laidlaw Foundation, and the Commonwealth Foundation on youth engagement, mental health, and wealth creation. He is dedicated to supporting Indigenous youth, leaders and communities on our journey towards self-determination.

Lance’s leadership in youth advocacy includes service with the Anishinabek Nation Eshki-Niigijig Council, Ontario First Nations Young Peoples Council (OFNYPC), Assembly of First Nations (AFN) National Youth Council, and the Ontario Premier’s Council on Youth Opportunities (PCYO). He has spoken in Canada, Ireland, and the United Kingdom on First Nations governance and community development. His contributions extend internationally as a One Young World Ambassador and advisor to the Queen’s Commonwealth Trust, where he is committed to the implementation of the 17 United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).