Pictured above: The Northern store in Black Lake, SK
Our Community Promise
The North West Company Inc. is proud of the active role we play within the communities we serve, striving to make a positive, progressive difference. Our contributions to the community of Black Lake Denesuline First Nation, SK, are a testament to our commitment.
Black Lake is also called Tazen Tuwe in Chipewyan. The community still follows and keeps the Dene traditional practices and activities alive. Community Elders continue to teach significant traditions such as hunting, drumming, and dancing. These activities continue to bring the entire community together, including the children and Elders.
Black Lake has about 1,400 residents (according to Statistics Canada 2016 census) who are mostly of Dene descent. Languages frequently spoken in Black Lake are Dene, English, and French.
The community is located in northern Saskatchewan’s Athabasca Basin region, 1,026 km north of Saskatoon. The nearest neighbouring community is Stony Rapids, 21 km away. The best way to reach Black Lake is to fly into Stony Rapids, then take the 22 km of all-season gravel road to the community. The seasonal road to the south is also typically open for about five months from November to March.
Did you know?
North West is proud of the positive impact we have on the community.
1. Employment: We are one of the most prominent employers in Black Lake, with our Northern store employing 30 individuals. Our commitment to local talent is demonstrated through our workforce consisting of 87% Indigenous employees.*
2. Capital Investment: Northern has made a $619,177 capital investment in the Black Lake store over a 10-year period.*
3. Annual Economic Impact: Northern is making a positive impact in Black Lake, with $964,669 annual economic impact in the community.*
Black Lake Northern Store Manager, Kavirasa Kanagaiah, and his team are significant community supporters.
“The Community of Black Lake has been welcoming and very appreciative of our operations. It has been a great journey getting to know the community and the culture. I would like to thank the community for providing me the opportunity to be part of this beautiful land,” Kanagaiah shared.
*For the year ending 2020