Creeson Agecoutay shares his next chapter in journalism

“My time with my mom was at the dinner table watching CTV News,” said Creeson. “We would watch CTV Regina at 6 p.m. We would hang out then watch CTV National at night. Then on Sundays we would watch Indigenous Circle with Nelson Bird.”

His introduction to journalism began in 2005 when he enrolled in the Indigenous Communication Arts (INCA) and took part in the INCA summer Institute at the First Nations University of Canada (FNUniv) in 2006.

That’s where he discovered a passion for storytelling and realized the power of media in shaping Indigenous narratives.

“I immediately became hooked on telling stories, and on the different mediums for telling stories,” said Creeson.

In 2008, he began a mentorship program at CTV Regina with Nelson Bird where he learned, “the tricks of the trade.”

He did that for a couple years before returning to university to complete his education.

While in university, he interned at the Saskatoon Star Phoenix, where he honed his writing skills.

However, his love of broadcast led him back to CTV Regina where he worked on daily news and became the new host of Indigenous Circle in 2013 for several years.

In 2020, he moved to CTV Saskatoon then to CTV National News in Ottawa as a parliamentary correspondent. He was then promoted to Atlantic bureau chief in Halifax.

However, in February, Bell Media, the parent company of CTV, eliminated nearly 5,000 jobs and cut multiple news programs.

Creeson then had to decide his next move.

He chose to follow his heart and his desire to tell Indigenous stories.

On May 15, Creeson became the new host of APTN National News at Noon show.

Creeson Agecoutay, APTN’s national news anchor as of May 15 of this year. (Photo submitted by Creeson Agecoutay).

This marked a significant milestone in Creeson’s career because now he can tell Indigenous stories to a national audience every single day.

As a seasoned journalist, he understands the importance of representation in the media, especially for Indigenous people.

Creeson has been vocal about the need for increased Indigenous representation in newsrooms and on television screens.

“We have so many stories,” he said. “There are dozens, if not hundreds, of stories every single day that aren’t being reported on.”

Creeson knows there are not enough journalists and even fewer who are Indigenous.

But those who are out there, are making a difference.

“I see the impact they are having regionally and nationally,” said Creeson. “I read the Indigenous reporters’s stories and I am so proud to see their work.”

He believes representation is important in all fields and encourages young people to chase their dreams.

“Go after it and make it your goal every day,” said Creeson.

In his new role, he hopes to inspire other youth to consider a career in journalism because it is a “worthy service.”

He said journalists have a responsibility to educate the public and this includes those new to Canada because everyone needs to know “who we are as Indigenous people.”

Photo: Creeson Agecoutay can be seen pictured in the APTN National News Studio hosting the first News at Noon Show. (Submitted by Creeson Agecoutay)

by Desiraye Noname

Creeson Agecoutay shares his next chapter in journalism

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