(She/Her)
Class of 2022
Hailing from Corner Brook, Newfoundland, Crystal Young came to Fort McMurray seven years ago and is currently President and CEO of McKay Métis Group.
She sits on the boards of Fort McMurray Chamber of Commerce and Wood Buffalo Presents and volunteers her time extensively with events all around the region. YMM recently had the chance to talk with Crystal about her life and contributions to Fort McMurray Wood Buffalo, and here’s some of what she had to say.
YMM: What is the most rewarding part of your career?
CY: I am working for a greater cause. Not only do I work to provide for myself and my family, but by leading a company owned by a Métis community in the heart of the oilsands, my team and I get to help contribute to the success of that Nation.
YMM: What keeps you in Fort McMurray?
CY: I am from a small city in Corner Brook, NL, so I really appreciate the small-town feel of Fort McMurray. The people take care of each other, support each other, and encourage each other. Our community comes together when needed.
YMM: In your opinion, in what areas does Fort McMurray Wood Buffalo need improvement?
CY: We need to focus on what we need as a community as a whole, not individual needs. We do not need lavish. We need simple things. We need to focus on families that live here. Invest their time and money here. Let’s take care of the people who take care of us by choosing to invest in our region. It really is that simple.
YMM: What accomplishment are you most proud of?
CY: One of my most recent accomplishments was receiving a Sash from the Fort McKay Metis Nation leadership and community. The Sash ceremony is one of the highest honours one can receive from the Nation. It recognizes the outstanding contribution that person has made to their community. It truly was a recognition I was honoured to receive.
YMM: Who is your hero and why?
CY: My parents. My dad taught me to work harder than anyone else in the room. To fix things myself, and to not depend on anyone to take care of me, only me. He is the hardest-working person I know. My mother taught me to see the best in people. Be honest, kind, generous and forgiving, even when people are not those things for me. She truly has the biggest heart of anyone I know.