Imperial stories

How a mural captured a shared vision for land

• A live mural created during Imperial’s Kearl Operations reclamation planning session captured Indigenous voices, hopes and environmental themes, transforming a technical meeting into a shared, emotional experience.
• The mural encouraged meaningful conversation and collaboration, allowing community members to share imagery and ideas that were visually honoured — creating a sense of inclusion and mutual respect.
• The phrase “Returning the Spirit to the Land” embodied a deeper vision of reclamation, emphasizing the return of plants, animals and people — blending western science with Indigenous knowledge for lasting impact.

• Michelle Van Every’s inspiring journey from single mother and student to seasoned operating engineer and mentor at Imperial’s Nanticoke Refinery showcases the transformative power of perseverance and community support.
• Fueled by determination and assistance from the SEED program, Michelle overcame challenges in education, childcare and finances to build a successful career.
• Now more than 20 years into her career at Imperial, she is a respected leader and advocate and gives back to her community by empowering youth and quietly shaping future talent through mentorship and example.

Imperial rides tall in the saddle

• Imperial is proud to support the Calgary Stampede’s newest rodeo event, Ladies Breakaway Roping
• Imperial is also the official fuel sponsor of the Stampede through our Esso and Mobil brands
• And Imperial’s partnership with the Stampede extends to youth programming including the Kids’ Chuck Challenge

• More than 60 U13 girls’ hockey players from the Little Native Hockey League (Little NHL) attended a special event hosted by Imperial at Scotiabank Arena on March 11.
• Since its inception in 1971, the tournament has provided a space for young First Nations athletes to develop their skills and embrace the game. This year’s tournament featured 270 teams including 47 female teams.
• The event featured a keynote speech from Canadian hockey legend Hayley Wickenheiser and an appearance by Kalley Armstrong, an elite hockey player with Indigenous heritage who is the granddaughter of Toronto Maple Leafs legend George Armstrong.
• Participants took part in dressing room tours, interactive activities, and even got to hit the court for some basketball fun with Carleton, the Toronto Maple Leafs mascot.