Aanii, I’m Anthony Huete-Jacobs. I’m a member of Aamjiwnaang First Nation, and I’m putting my name forward because I care about our community, the responsibility of Council, and the future we are building together.
Family and community
I was born in Sarnia, Ontario, and Aamjiwnaang has always been my community. Some of my earliest memories are of spending time here with my family, visiting my grandmother, Audrey Jacobs, swimming, riding down Tashmoo, visiting Uncle Turtle, and playing Nintendo 64 with family.
Community involvement was also part of my life from a young age. My father, Tony Jacobs, helped lead the Right To Play program in Aamjiwnaang, and I volunteered with the program and participated in youth activities. My grandmother Audrey has also spent many years volunteering and contributing to the community. Those experiences introduced me early to the importance of giving your time, helping others and being involved.
With my grandmother Audrey Jacobs on the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation (Orange Shirt Day)
Taking on responsibility
As I got older, I began taking on leadership roles of my own. I became involved with the Aamjiwnaang First Nation Youth Council and eventually served as Chair for approximately three years. During that time, we worked to create more opportunities for youth to participate and have their voices heard. We organized activities such as a community round dance, invited speakers, developed Youth Council clothing and outreach materials, and worked to increase awareness and participation among young people. I also gained experience working through meetings, motions and collective decision-making.
I later served for approximately three years as a Director on the Board of Chippewa Industrial Developments Limited (CIDL). That experience gave me exposure to governance, economic development, business decision-making and planning connected to Aamjiwnaang’s industrial park and economic future.
I have also been involved with Aamjiwnaang’s Education Committee and Governance Committee. These experiences have allowed me to learn more about the different responsibilities within our community and the importance of strong governance, education and long-term planning.
Continuing to learn and build
Outside of my community involvement, I have continued building my education and professional experience. I have worked in the federal government, including on programs involving clean energy projects with Indigenous communities, and I am currently studying Computer Programming and Analysis at George Brown College. I am also an entrepreneur working in technology and continue to learn about how technology can be used responsibly while protecting Indigenous interests and self-determination.
Generation Power — Indigenous Clean EnergyBlack Bear Indigenous Summer Program — 2023
Learning through Indigenous Pathfinders in AI
In 2026, I was selected for Mila’s Indigenous Pathfinders in AI program, where I learned about artificial intelligence, responsible AI and the opportunities and concerns it can create for Indigenous communities. The experience gave me a better understanding of AI and the importance of approaching it carefully, with Indigenous values, interests and community needs in mind.
Mila Indigenous Pathfinders in AI — 2026
What keeps me grounded
Through these experiences, I have had the opportunity to learn from youth, Elders, community members, professionals and other Indigenous leaders. I know that there is always more to learn, and I believe leadership means listening to people, doing the work and being willing to learn from different perspectives.
Outside of work, school and community involvement, I enjoy playing pool, exercising, spending time with family and friends, and building computer programs.
