Ricky-Lee Watts, Indigenous Clean Energy (ICE)
Ricky-Lee Watts
Ricky-Lee Watts, Indigenous Clean Energy (ICE)
Ricky-Lee is the Youth Lead Program Manager at the Indigenous Clean Energy organization (ICE). ICE is an NGO that carries out programs for the inclusion of indigenous people in Canada’s energy sector. Ricky-Lee has a Bachelor’s of Psychology from the University of Victoria. He aims to be a role model, guide, and an involved member of the indigenous community.
Ricky-Lee was born and raised in Port Alberni, a small city located on Vancouver Island. While his dad grew up in the streets of Montreal, his mom grew up in Port Alberni with colonial barriers.
He shares that he grew up with some trauma in his teenage years but used these as learning experiences for his morals and motivation in his life journey.
He moved to Victoria for university where he worked and volunteered in various university programs. He has also worked with the government as a community liaison.
The Next Generation
Ricky-Lee joined ICE in 2020 during the pandemic. He was tasked with ‘breathing life’ into the concept of opening and providing opportunities for indigenous youth. Through this, Ricky-Lee formed the ‘’Generation Power” program at ICE.
This program is aimed at making youth into leaders in the clean energy sector. Participants explore careers, learn new skills, and grow their network. Both employers and youth have something to gain and share through this program. It is a national program with involvement from coast to coast.
Ricky-Lee is very proud of his role at ICE. It has offered him a way of giving back and craft a journey for youth. The program has just completed its first year and looking forward to the future. The alumni now feel like they are among peers. It gives them a sense of purpose and choice. The team is growing and is very supportive. Ricky-Lee hopes that this program acts as a model for other organizations to follow.
Ricky-Lee’s inspiration
Ricky-Lee appreciates the role models and mentors he has had throughout his life. In his early years, his parents provided a sense of determination. They encouraged him to set out on his life path while creating and sharing opportunities with others and the less fortunate.
He is also grateful for his previous supervisors for giving him the opportunity to learn and grow as an individual.
Other than working for ICE, he is also an elected official in his community council. He does public speaking and even does modelling jobs with SuperNaturals Modelling, an indigenous agency.
Ricky also repeats an adage that he follows and keeps in mind while on his journey. The idea of ‘hishuk-ish tsawalk/hišukʔiš c̓awaak means that we are all one and are interconnected in some way. He practices humility and respect while continuing to experience life.
Fill up on Curiosity
Ricky-Lee advises newcomers to always maintain your curiosity. Before picking a career or job, always ask the question, “What is important to you?” Think about the future and where you want to be in this world. Clean energy is an initiative at a global level, and everyone can make a difference. Let your curiosity fuel your motivation to make the world a better place!
Closing Remarks
Ricky-Lee emphasizes the importance of all of us being interconnected. We all have stories to share and a part to play in our future. In particular, he states that, ‘ Youth is the forefront of climate change action.’ He is proud to be a part of an organization that is working with youth and providing opportunities to contribute to their future.