AWWA Water Champion – Susheel Arora, Millbrook, Nova Scotia

Susheel Arora, chief executive officer at Atlantic First Nations Water Authority (AFNWA) since 2023, leads the delivery of water and wastewater services for participating First Nations communities in Atlantic Canada. His previous experience includes nearly two decades at Halifax Water, where as director of operations he helped lead the utility’s expansion into wastewater and stormwater services.

Education: General Management Program graduate, Harvard University; M.S., Environmental Engineering, Jodhpur University (India); M.S., Applied Sciences, Dalhousie University (Canada); B.S., Civil Engineering, Amravati University (India)

What led to your interest in a career in water? I come from a region in India where water scarcity is a daily reality, shaping the lives of countless individuals and communities. Growing up, I witnessed firsthand the immense struggles people faced due to a lack of reliable access to clean water. The impact of this scarcity extended beyond daily survival—it affected health, sanitation, education, and economic opportunities.

I realized early on that access to clean water and proper sanitation was not just a necessity but a fundamental right. To contribute to this basic human need, I chose to pursue my education and career in the water sector. My goal is to contribute to sustainable water management, develop solutions that improve accessibility, and advocate for policies that empower communities facing similar struggles.

What drew you to the CEO opportunity at AFNWA? For decades, I have heard about the long-term boil water advisories affecting Indigenous communities due to unsafe water supplies. Along with these challenges, many communities face shortages in water availability, and their wastewater systems require significant improvements. When the opportunity arose following the retirement of AFNWA’s interim CEO, I felt compelled to step forward and contribute to meaningful solutions. I was eager to bring my expertise to help lead efforts to improve water accessibility, sustainability, and infrastructure for Indigenous communities.

Had you previously been involved with Indigenous communities? I grew up in India, where I had no direct ties to Indigenous communities. However, our schools introduced us to their existence in North America, often in relation to European exploration and the discovery of India. In the water sector, I have been actively involved in establishing AFNWA since 2017.

How do you hope to build on AFNWA’s success? Building on AFNWA’s success means advancing its mission, “To provide safe, clean drinking water and wastewater in all participating First Nations communities in Atlantic Canada, delivered by a regional water authority owned and operated by First Nations.” With my extensive background in water management, I aim to strengthen existing infrastructure, expand access, and implement innovative solutions that address both immediate concerns and long-term sustainability.

My focus is on enhancing operational efficiency, improving wastewater systems, and ensuring that communities have the resources and support needed to maintain water security. Collaboration with Indigenous leadership and local stakeholders remains a priority, fostering partnerships that uphold cultural values while driving progress.

Why is AFNWA so important for its member communities? AFNWA addresses historic water and wastewater service challenges by providing Indigenous-led, community-focused water management and ensuring that decisions are made with cultural values, local needs, and environmental sustainability in mind.

By centralizing water services under an Indigenous governance model, AFNWA strengthens infrastructure, enhances operational efficiency, and secures long-term solutions tailored to the unique circumstances of each member community. Additionally, it fosters capacity-building and workforce development, allowing communities to have greater control and self-determination over their water resources.

Ultimately, AFNWA represents more than just improved water access—it embodies the empowerment of Indigenous communities, ensuring that future generations can rely on safe and sustainable water systems.

What was one of your proudest achievements at Halifax Water? Implementing the One Water approach at Halifax Water was a significant achievement, as it represented a shift toward a more holistic and sustainable way of managing water resources. The One Water approach integrates these systems and recognizes water as a unified resource that requires coordinated management to ensure long-term sustainability.

By adopting this model, Halifax Water improved efficiency, enhanced resilience, promoted environmental stewardship, and ensured greater adaptability in the face of climate change and evolving urban demands. The initiative aligned with global best practices and helped position Halifax Water as a leader in integrated water management.

Please describe your family and interests. I have three talented adult daughters who are thriving in their professional careers. I have a deep appreciation for the outdoors and enjoy immersing myself in nature through gardening and long walks. Additionally, I find fulfillment in volunteering on boards, where I can contribute meaningfully and add value to the broader community.

AFNWA is a First Nations-owned non-profit organization incorporated under the Canada Not-for-Profit Corporations Act in July 2018. The regional water authority is responsible for the operation, maintenance and capital upgrades of all water and wastewater assets in participating First Nations.