Leading with the Land: Chief Lennon Solomon and the Yunesit’in Vision for Stewardship

Photo: Chief Lennon Solomon, Chief of Yunesit’in and Director at Central Chilcotin Rehabilitation Ltd. (CCR)

Growing up in the heart of Yunesit’in, Chief Lennon Solomon has always been grounded by a deep connection to the land and the people who depend on it.

“When I think back to my early years,” he reflects, “it was being out on the land with family hunting, fishing, learning from Elders, that shaped how I see the world today. Those lessons taught me that leadership isn’t about control; it’s about responsibility to the land, to your people, and to future generations.”

Today, Lennon brings that same sense of responsibility to his dual roles as Chief of Yunesit’in and Director at Central Chilcotin Rehabilitation Ltd. (CCR). His days are a blend of community leadership and collaboration with partners across the region, ensuring that Indigenous values are woven into every part of the work CCR does.

“What’s constant is the shared vision, creating healthy forests and strong communities.”

As Chief, Lennon has seen firsthand how Yunesit’in’s involvement with CCR has opened new doors for his members. “CCR has created meaningful employment and built capacity in areas like forest management and rehabilitation,” he explains. “But more than that, it’s created pride. Our people see their work healing the land and protecting homes, and that gives purpose beyond a paycheque.”

When asked which of CCR’s guiding values, Stewardship, Collaboration, Resilience, Sustainability, and Indigenous Leadership, resonates most with him, Lennon shares: “Stewardship,” he says. “It’s at the heart of who we are as Tsilhqot’in people. Taking care of the land is taking care of ourselves. That’s the foundation for everything CCR does.”

He believes this is where CCR stands apart. “What makes CCR different is that it’s Indigenous-led,” he emphasizes. “We’re not just contractors; we’re caretakers. Our approach is grounded in long-term thinking, not short-term gain. That changes everything, from how we plan projects to how we measure success.”

Looking to the future, Lennon sees CCR’s work continuing to benefit Yunesit’in in powerful ways. “We’re building knowledge that will stay in the community. Youth are learning from Elders and from experienced workers about how to manage the forest, how to protect water, and how to plan for the next fire season. That’s the kind of resilience that lasts.”

From wildfire risk reduction, Lennon has learned one key lesson: “Preparedness starts long before the fire. It’s about understanding the landscape, reducing fuel loads, and building partnerships that work when the pressure is on. Collaboration saves communities.”