In August 2024, Aimee accepted the position with CANDO as the Certification Coordinator, Eastern Canada.  Prior to working with CANDO, Aimee worked for her home community, the Mississaugas of the Credit First Nation for 17 years, 16 of those years were in the Sustainable Economic Development Department.  

Aimee’s recent educational accomplishments include, Year 1 and Year 2 of EDAC training at the University of Waterloo and the completion of the Aboriginal Management Program at the University of British Columbia – Sauder School of Business.

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Ajey Meekis currently serves as an Economic Development Officer with Windigo Community Development Corporation in Thunder Bay, Ontario. Since graduating from Lakehead University’s HBComm program, Ajey has held multiple roles which have helped sustainable community economic development. With a background in finance and previous experience working in banking and at an Indigenous Financial Institution, Ajey has worked with Indigenous entrepreneurs and community members. He is passionate about fostering community growth through economic empowerment and leveraging his expertise to promote sustainable development within First Nation Communities.

Albalina, a proud member of Fort Albany First Nation in Northern Ontario, is the Chief Executive Officer of the Mushkegowuk Development Corporation (MDC). MDC, a Limited Partnership owned by six Indigenous partners, is committed to generating economic prosperity through strategic business ownership, collaborative partnerships, and innovative enterprise development.

Albalina holds an Honours Bachelor of Business Administration from Trent University and a graduate certificate in Community Relations in Extractive Industries from Queen's University. With over 20 years of diverse experience spanning the private and non-profit sectors, as well as service on multiple regional boards, she brings a wealth of expertise and a multifaceted perspective to her leadership role.

As a director of the Timmins Chamber of Commerce, Albalina integrates her deep understanding of Indigenous economic landscapes with broad industry insights. Her leadership at MDC extends beyond revenue generation—she is deeply committed to sustainable development, capacity building, and job creation, ensuring that the six Indigenous partner communities gain long-term economic empowerment and self-reliance.

Albalina's strategic approach has consistently driven positive change and created impactful solutions for her region and communities.

Alex Peters is President of the Whitefeather Forest Community Resource Management Authority.  He has led the development of the Whitefeather Forest Initiative of Pikangikum First Nation for more than 20 years. Prior to taking up the leadership of the Initiative, Alex held positions that included Chief of Pikangikum First Nation and as a policeman.

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Ashley took her first steps into the security industry while attending Confederation College for her Social Work diploma, during which she began working as a Security Guard. Ashley also holds a Bachelor of Science in Nursing. She was then recruited as the first employee of the newly formed REP Security Inc. Ashley’s determination and extensive knowledge in the industry enabled her to quickly rise through the ranks and become a supervisor and later a manager. However, never satisfied and always ambitious, she partnered then with REP Security to create a new female and Indigenous-owned company, REP Giwaydin Security Inc. Ashley currently resides in Thunder Bay, she grew up in Caramat, ON, but her heritage can be traced back to Pic River Biigtigong Nishnaabeg Ojibway, First Nation, on the northern shore of Lake Superior.

Aubrey-Anne Laliberte-Pewapisconias, a nêhiyâskwew from Canoe Lake Cree First Nation and Little Pine First Nation, holds a Master of Sustainability in Energy Security from the University of Saskatchewan. She created energy literacy toolkits rooted in Indigenous knowledge and language and helped install a Level 2 Tesla EV Charger in northern Saskatchewan with Meadow Lake Tribal Council. As the ImaGENation Program Manager at Indigenous Clean Energy, she empowers Indigenous youth to develop clean energy projects. Aubrey-Anne’s community work includes involvement with Tatâga Inc. and the Indigenous Leadership Circle. She was named a 2023 Top 25 Under 25 Environmentalist and a Corporate Knights 30 Under 30 Sustainability Leader.

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Ay'Den Abraham, 24, is a dedicated member of his community, Ayîk Sâkâhikan (Frog Lake). As a ceremonial helper, environmentalist, and active committee member, he focuses on sustainability and clean energy through various economic development projects. Raised in a family with a carpentry tradition, he began working in construction from a young age, nurturing a passion for environmental sustainability. In 2023, he volunteered with his Fire Department and co-coordinated a successful Plains Cree cultural camp focused on environmental monitoring. Ay'Den is part of the Generation Power program, leading projects related to Indigenous Clean Energy. He aims to ensure a better world for future generations.

Cheryll Welke very proud of her Cree Metis descent and very thankful to her maternal grandparents and great grandparents for teaching and instilling culture, language and pride. As a long time resident of the High Level, Alberta northwest region. AS a grandmother of 5 and 3 Children Cheryll continues to maintain strong ties with her home community of Grouard, Alberta. Where she owns the local Convenience store and Canada Post Office as well as Her businesses in High Level Include That include High Level IDA drug store that has an indigenous gift shop named ESAWrA Gifts and Gallery. Some of Cheryll’s greatest achievements as a business owner is her ability to engage and support her local surrounding communities. Many of whom are indigenous. AS a resident of the Treaty 8 Territory it is an honour to live amongst the local Dene Tha communities (3), The Little Red River Cree communities (3), The Beaver First Nation community (2) the Tall Crees North and south as well the largest Metis Settlement in Alberta Paddle Prairie with whom she is a  member. Cheryll prides herself with the amazing region she lives in. These communities range from oil and gas towns to the Forest capital of Canada in 2024, as well as the extensive Agricultural communities. Her family business has won the Community Care award twice once in 2017 then again 2024, there are approximately 700 stores across Canada within the Mckesson Canada Group.

Aanii, My name is Chris Manitowabi and I’m Ojibway from the Wiikwemkoong Unceded Territory on Manitoulin Island. Born and raised in my home community, leaving when I was 18 years old to receive my diploma at Seneca College in the Fire Technician program. I worked in the transportation/ construction industry downtown Toronto as a track maintainer at Union Station completing the revitalization project on the railway line and station depot.

Working away from family and loved ones to pursue an education and follow a career path was a difficult step.  Battling my insecurities and confidence was a challenge, however my work ethic and goal oriented traits has always been a tool I can rely on. Being a young man with a family to support, a move back home was necessary to re evaluate my future.

In 2011, I started my new career path in the electrical industry as a Powerline Apprentice with Hydro One. The journey has been an amazing opportunity and the experience gain have been influential in my life. Being on the front lines, in the field every day has its challenges and I succumbed to my battles and struggles in 2023, getting lost along the way and realizing I’ve been struggling with depression and addiction.

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SEMAA is led by founder and CEO Darrin Spence who is a member of Marten Falls First Nation and grew up between the communities, Constance Lake, Marten Falls and Thunder Bay, ON. He began his career as an officer with the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) and retired from duty after 16 years of service. The next phase of his career brought him to Nishnawbe Aski Nation and the Independent First Nations Alliance where he assisted Northern Ontario First Nations with various emergencies from mental health crisis to forest fire evacuations and more over 4 years. In 2023, Darrin decided to pursue his own path and become an independent partner for First Nations through his own business.

David is a retired Emeritus Professor in the School of Natural Sciences at Laurentian University in Sudbury where he taught geology, climate change, and science communication, interrupted by a six years as Project Director and then Science Director of Science North, the Science Centre in Sudbury. He is part of a small group, Up North on Climate, https://www.upnorthonclimate.ca/ , collaborating with northern First Nation Councils in co-developing resources and building capacity for community-based, Indigenous-led, climate change adaptation.

Don Huff is the founder of ECO Strategy and Clean50 recipient,recognized for his commitment to economic development, sustainability andenvironmental advocacy.

With extensive experience in government relations and strategiccommunications, Don has effectively guided the successful initiatives ofcountless organizations in northern Ontario and across the country.  

Don's expertise is not only in crafting impactful campaigns butalso in fostering meaningful engagement. His work spans various sectors, wherehas provided strategic advice to corporations on converting to Alternative LowCarbon Fuels, NGO’s and many Canadian First Nations (currently Cat Lake FirstNation) communities and organizations, all levels of politicians, twoEnvironmental Commissioners and Ontario’s Chief Energy Conservation Officer,the CEO’s of international EV Charger software and hardware manufacturerElocity Tech and both Forest Canada and the Canadian Tree Nursery Association.

His successes have earned him accolades Ontario Nature lifetimemembership, Latornell Lifetime Achievement Award and recognition from theCanadian Society of Association Executives.

Throughhis leadership at ECO Strategy, Don continues to innovate and inspire others toprioritize the integration of environmental sustainability and economicdevelopment.

Dr. Sikanen has been working for 25 years with industrial timber supply R&D. Since 2001 he has been focusing on wood biomass for energy and international technology and know- how to transfer. In Luke and former Finnish Forest Research Institute (Metla) he has been leading and participating R&D and consulting processes in Finland, Scotland, Germany, Italy, Russia, Iceland, Portugal and Canada. Sikanen worked as a professor of energy pellet research at the University of Eastern Finland 2008-2013 and spent autumn semester 2017 in Thunder Bay as a visiting scholar. Dr. Sikanen is also an external adjunct professor of Lakehead University.

As President and Chief Executive Officer, Ernie Daniels manages the business affairs of the First Nations Finance Authority (FNFA). He is a Chartered Professional Accountant and a Certified Aboriginal Financial Manager. From Salt River First Nation, Ernie moved from Ottawa to Kelowna in 2011 to work with the FNFA as Director of Finance and was subsequently appointed as President and CEO in June 2012. Prior to FNFA, he was the President and Chief Operating Officer of the Aboriginal Financial Officers Association (AFOA) of Canada for seven years and the Director of Assessment and Finance Operations at the Aboriginal Healing Foundation (AHF) for five years. Ernie has worked for Indigenous non-profit organizations in various leadership and management positions. He has served on numerous boards and committees and was recently appointed as the inaugural First Nations director to the Bank of Canada Board of Directors. He was also a member of the Canadian Institute of Chartered Accountants (CICA) Research Study Group looking at financial reporting by First Nations; Chair of the NWT Legislative Assembly Society; Vice-Chair of the NWT Development Corporation; Board member of the First Nations Financial Management Board (FMB) and Chair of the Audit Committee and was a member of the Standards, Approvals, and Certification Committee. He was also a Board member of the Canadian Executive Service Organization (CESO).

Frank McKay has over 40 years experience working on First Nations issues including health and addictions, housing and infrastructure, economic development and energy. He has served as the Executive Director for NAN legal services, the co-chair for Wataynikaneyap Power and, for the last 16 years, as the Chair and CEO of the Windigo First Nations Council. He has committed his career to creating a healthier, more sustainable future for First Nations living in Ontario’s far north.

Frank graduated from grade 8 from the Poplar Hill Residential School and went on to finish his high school diploma at the Northwestern High School in Stratford Ontario. He studied to be an architectural technician at Fanshawe College in London, Ontario before returning to his home community of Sachigo Lake First Nation, in the province’s northwest.

Frank is the father of three sons and three grandchildren. He is fluent in English and Oji-Cree and currently resides in Thunder Bay, Ontario. A strong proponent of the Aboriginal and Treaty rights of his people, Mr. McKay is a well-respected leader in the WFNC and Nishnawbe Aski Nation territory.

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Gabrielle Slowey is an Associate Professor in the Department of Politics at York University, with extensive experience working with Indigenous communities since 1997. Her career began when she was hired by the Mikisew Cree First Nation as a self-government officer. Over the years, she has collaborated with various communities across Canada and internationally, including the Miqmaq and Malisset in New Brunswick, the James Bay Cree, and the Ngai Tahu and Tainui of New Zealand. Her research focuses on topics like resource extraction, environmental integrity, democracy, and Indigenous rights. Slowey’s work is community-based, aiming to address issues such as treaties and self-government.

Gary Zed is, quite simply, a force of nature. Which is why it’s not surprising that Canada's Forest Trust Corporation has Canada’s most important resource at its heart - forests. Never one to shy away from a challenge, Gary is determined to put things right for future generations by tackling climate change in a very Canadian way. Gary has earned the respect of Canada’s largest corporations by delivering the innovative and frank advice that solidified their successes. A tax lawyer who built national practices at two of the country’s ‘big four’ firms and a savvy entrepreneur, Gary is as generous with his expertise in the community as he is in the corporate world. Gary has raised tens of millions of dollars for important social causes related to youth, homelessness, healthcare and the arts. Gary's been an active Board member for the Ottawa Boys and Girls Club, provides leadership to the Shepherds of Good Hope, a major supporter of the NAC, the Ottawa Hospital Foundation, and he founded the Lift Foundation. 

Geordie is an Indigenous finance executive, consultant, and lawyer.  He advises on Indigenous economic reconciliation and financial innovation for clients in the finance industry and in government, including advising on a loan guarantee program, a government Indigenous finance platform, and the Indigenous Bond concept.  

Previously, he was CEO of the First Nations Financial Management Board, a nation-wide Indigenous-led organization focused on building financial capacity for First Nations, where he led financial and administrative capacity building initiatives for over 360 client First Nations across Canada.  He led over120 staff in economic reconciliation policy and created a comprehensive framework called RoadMap which is a key framework used by the Government of Canada and includes novel proposed Indigenous institutions like the Indigenous Development Bank and pan-Indigenous asset manager.

Geordie brings deep experience in finance and financial law, with experience as a senior investment products securities lawyer at the British Columbia Securities Commission, financial tribunal Chair and CEO at the Financial Services Tribunal (BC), management consultant at McKinsey & Company and mergers and acquisitions investment banker at Jefferies Broadview. 

Geordie is currently a board member of the Responsible Investment Association of Canada, the Government of British Columbia’s ESG Advisory Council, the Peter Dhillon Centre at UBC Sauder School of Business, and the CFA Canadian Advisory Council.  He also advises the Chair of the International Sustainability Standards Board. He has driven economic development initiatives for his First Nation (the Gwich’in Nation of the Northwest Territories) on the board of the Gwich’in Development Corporation and represented the Gwich’in Nation in international Arctic economic development forums at the Arctic Economic Council and Arctic Council.

Business in Vancouver magazine named him BC500 Most Influential Business Leader for 2021, 2022, and 2023.

Geordie holds an MBA from the Stanford Graduate School of Business and an MA (East Asian Studies/Chinese) from Stanford University, a law degree from the University of British Columbia, and an electrical and computer engineering degree from Queen’s University. He holds a certificate in Mandarin Chinese from the IUP program at Tsinghua University in Beijing, China. Geordie is a CFA Charterholder, CAIA Charterholder and an Action Canada Fellow.

Dr. Ginger Gibson is the Founding Director of the Firelight Group, an Indigenous-owned research firm focused on serving Indigenous communities. Her work explores the social, cultural, and economic impacts of extractive industries. Dr. Gibson has mediated complex conflicts in regions like the Ring of Fire, northern Alberta, and Alaska. Dedicated to research and service, she serves on numerous boards across Canada and co-authored The Community Toolkit for Negotiation of Impact and Benefit Agreements. She holds a PhD in Mining Engineering from the University of British Columbia and was a Pierre Elliott Trudeau Foundation Scholar in 2003.

MBA (2012), Athabasca University; CIM (2010); BEd (2000), Lakehead University; Hons BA (1999), Brock University

Gord is a vice president and the National Head of the PH&N Indigenous Investment Services (IIS) team at RBC Global Asset Management, a global investment management company.  In addition to these roles, where he provides leadership to the IIS team, he also directly manages a number of Indigenous investment accounts directly.  Prior to joining the firm in 2011, Gord had spent five years providing investment and related financial advisory services to First Nations clients of RBC Dominion Securities Inc. (RBC DS). He also published articles about personal financial planning for Indigenous persons in the Wawatay News and other publications. Gordon is a member of the Lac Seul First Nation -Caribou Clan - and works from Fort William First Nation near Thunder Bay, Ontario. He started his career in the investment industry in 2005.

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Dedicated Indigenous HR professional hailing from the Siksika First Nation, I bring experience and a commitment to creating meaningful opportunities and growth within Indigenous communities. Throughout my career, I have spearheaded the development and execution of workplace development programs, launching initiatives that successfully integrate Indigenous first-year apprentices into various trades.

Cultivated and maintained strong partnerships with Indigenous communities across Canada. Drafted and executed Memorandums of Understanding (MOUs) with key stakeholders, including the Siksika First Nation, Big River First Nation, Muscowpetung First Nation, and Koda Cree Ltd.

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James Mamakwa has dedicated over four decades to serving Kingfisher Lake First Nation in various leadership roles. He served two terms as Chief (1988-1994 and 2008-2016) and held key administrative positions including Band Administrator (2001-2008), Band Economic Officer (1995-2000), and Welfare Administrator (1977-1988). A graduate of Stirland Lake High School, Mamakwa furthered his education through First Nation Management Training at Confederation College and various professional development programs. His commitment to community development is evident through his extensive board experience, including roles with KFL SED Corporation, Nishnawbe-Aski Development Fund, and RONA Sioux Lookout. Currently, he continues to serve his community as Band Support Staff, building upon his previous role as Comprehensive Community Coordinator (2018-2021).

Jamie is a highly skilled and respected leader with over 20 year of experience the economic development. She has extensive stakeholder and Indigenous Community consultation and engagement experience with a proven track record of managing large, complex and politically sensitive projects. Jamie’s career has progressed rapidly within the Federal, Provincial and Municipal Public Service, and was appointed as Chief Executive Officer the Thunder Bay Community Economic Development Commission in 2022. Prior to CEDC, Jamie held a variety of roles within the Provincial and Federal Government including Senior Manager - Regional Services & Relationships for the Ministry of Transportation, Manager of Thunder Bay Area Team for the Ministry of Northern Development and Mines, Manager of Northwest Program Delivery for FedNor and Program Officer for Indigenous Affairs and Northern Development Canada. Jamie holds an Honours Bachelor of Commerce from Lakehead University and IVEY Executive Leadership Program Certificate.

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Jason J. McBride is an expert in Sustainable Workforce Development, specializing in inclusive, sustainable employment strategies. As a leader in Disability, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI), he has helped organizations build resilient workforces by bridging generational, cultural, and ability-based gaps. With a background in adult education, Jason has worked across various industries, including skilled trades, manufacturing, natural resources, and tourism. He focuses on connecting underrepresented talent, particularly individuals with disabilities, to meaningful career opportunities. As the founder of Fluent Training Technologies, Jason advocates for sustainable workforce practices and diversity as key drivers of innovation, growth, and organizational success.

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JP a respected Indigenous business leader, boasts extensive experience in fostering global conversations and relationships. Known for his integrity, collaboration, and ability to elevate strategies, he served as President and CEO of the Canadian Council for Aboriginal Business from 2012 to 2020. With over 25 years in the natural resource sector, he has worked with Aboriginal communities, environmental NGOs, industries, and governments. Currently, JP is a Senior Indigenous Business Advisor on the boards of Mikisew Group of Companies, Noront Resources, and Social Awareness Group Inc. He also contributes to initiatives like the Task Force for a Resilient Recovery and the Energy Future Forum. Additionally, he has served as Chancellor of St. Paul’s University College Waterloo since 2017.

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Shė:kon, my name is Jim Jacobs and I am a Proud member of the Mohawk Nation at the Six Nations of the Grand River and a Proud member of IUOE Local 793. I have been in the Construction/ Transportation Industry for 25 years working in Tennessee and the Southern USA and back home at Six Nations Ontario. Experience in both non-union and union environments with the Union experience being the highlight of my career. Working in many sectors such as pipeline, EPSCA, utilities, and heavy civil on many major projects in the province eventually leading to an opportunity to work as an organizer for Local 793 and to my present position as the Indigenous Relations Coordinator.  I believe my childhood experiences of growing up on the family beef cattle and cash crop farm led me to be successful pursuing many goals along the way. Some of those include attending Missouri Valley College on a football scholarship, also the University of Oklahoma, and a semi pro season with the Buffalo Lancers and Hamilton Wildcats winning the Great Lakes Football league Championship. I have also pursued music along the way while working in Nashville Tennessee eventually releasing my first album in 2022 earning a Country Album of the Year award at the SSIMA’s held in Ottawa in June 2023 and currently a nominee for Best Country Recording in the upcoming Native American Music Awards.  Most recently I’ve been focusing on the recruitment of Indigenous apprentices across Ontario by attending as many trade shows, career fairs, and conferences as I can as well as touring with APSIP to reach all high schools in Ontario attended by young Indigenous Men and Women informing them on our fee free apprenticeships at OETIO ( Operating Engineers Training Institute of Ontario) and the importance of working a union job to earn a pension and benefits.  “If I wasn’t working in the Union of my trade, I wouldn’t have a house for my family, and a lot of other things in my life. Also, I would not have been able to afford the many trips back and forth from Nashville to record.” “If I was still working non union I would still be renting, still struggling week to week, have no pension to retire on, and no benefits” 

Local 793 has changed my life!

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John D Beardy is currently the Director of Business Development at Windigo Community Development Corporation. He is a member of Bearskin Lake First Nation but resides in Thunder Bay, ON. His formal education and training is in business management, and has over 20 years of business management experience with First Nation businesses. His experience includes primarily in sales, marketing and business development roles in aviation, construction and development corporation sectors. His interest is in managing and growing indigenous businesses for sustainability and profitability. This includes developing and strategizing how indigenous businesses grow and capture the numerous opportunities arising from development within indigenous territories. Another aspect in business development he specializes in is creating and negotiating partnerships for maximizing the benefits for the indigenous community.

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Since times immemorial people have used the stars as guides. In the language of my grandmother, the word for star is ᐊᒑᐦᑯᐢ [acâhkos]. Coincidentally, a word that can be used to refer to our ancestors is ᐊᐦᒑᕁ [ahcâhk] which is closely related to ᐊᒑᐦᑯᐢ [acâhkos]. Our ancestors are stars. In the traditions of my people, we sometimes refer to a concept known as blood memory, or what the western world refers to as genetic memory. In fact, it has been proved that the memories of our ancestors are passed down to succeeding generations and are deeply embedded on their subconsciousness. Some have referred to this as intuition, but that is because they do not know about our ways. I refer to this as guidance and direction from our ancestors, a family heirloom. I am guided by the stars, however, it is not by looking up, but rather, by looking within. This is the beginning of understanding all our relations or ᐋᐧᐦᑰᐦᑐᐃᐧᐣ [wâhkôhtowin].

I am ᓀᓱᓭᐯᕀ [nîsosîpîy] which means two rivers. I never liked this name, but as I get older, I perhaps understand better its significance. My mixed ancestry and life experience has granted me the ability to survive in two rivers, one fashioned after mainstream, western ways of thinking or what I sometimes refer to as unnatural law, and the other deeply rooted in traditional ecological knowledge governed by ᓀᐦᐃᔭᐁᐧᐃᐧᐣ [nehiyawewin] or Cree perspectives according to natural law.

To be a ᓀᐦᐃᔭᐤ [nehiyaw], a Cree person, it means to be made up of four parts: physical, emotional, mental, and spiritual. Physically, I am of Cree-Metis-Settler origins. Emotionally, I am resilient, recovering from the intergenerational traumas of the Metis Resistance and residential school legacies. Mentally, I have over a decade of education and experience in areas of neurolinguistics, business, economics, law, governance, and psychology, in addition to the teachings gained from being raised in the bush. Spiritually, I am interconnected, taking my collective experience and knowledge from two rivers or two worlds I was brought up in and integrating them into a beautiful weave. I am committed to showing the world the beautiful parts of what Indigenous peoples have to offer.

Jordan Hatton is the Director of Economic Developmentfor Bingwi Neyaashi Anishinaabek (Sand Point First Nation), a formerlydisplaced First Nation that is in the process of rapidly developing its reservelands on the south-east shores of Lake Nipigon. In his work with BNA, Jordan isresponsible for all on-reserve developments, on and off-reserve businessdevelopments including the Papasay Value-Added Sawmill operation, forestry andmining activities and agreements, employment and training matters, and regional,multi-First Nation initiatives, all off-reserve consultation matters, and sitson multiple Boards for the community. As Director, Jordan is responsible forthe eight staff in his department, budgeting for dozens of projects andinitiatives, and all funding applications and reporting requirements associatedwith these Projects. Jordan has been working with First Nations for the last 15years in various resource development, lands and economic development-relatedpositions. He received his Master’s Degree in Political Science from theUniversity of Guelph in 2008, and enjoys spending time with his partner, familyand friends, travelling the world, fishing, golfing, and heavy metal festivals.    

Kathy is a member of Marten Falls First Nation and is currently working for her community as the Director of Natural Resources and Environment. Prior to working for her First Nation, Kathy had spent over 12 years working for Matawa First Nations Management, a successful Tribal Council in Northern Ontario, Canada. She began as the Mining Advisor and quickly advanced to Senior Management. Her passion is advocating for Aboriginal inherent rights, respecting environment and culture, and finding solution-based alternatives to challenges.

Kathy is a unique individual with a diverse upbringing and knowledge base. Her mother and relatives are residential school survivors and she learned of the horrific history and genocide through them. Her parents instilled a strong understanding of traditional culture, business, government and inherit rights from a very young age. She has a gift for communication and understanding the complexities of jurisdiction, governance, environment and the effects of colonialism.

Her early years existed in two worlds, living remotely “in the bush” and “in town”. As a child brought up in tourism, her pre-school summers were spent at Old Fort William Historical Park dressed in traditional native clothing. Her parents founded and operated the “Native Trading Camp” exhibit and she and her family shared their traditional knowledge and craftmanship. Eventually, her family became owners and operators of successful resource-based tourism resorts and an air charter service that offered remote fishing and hunting across Northern Ontario. It was during these years she gained valuable experience and first-hand knowledge while living on the land and working for the family business. Kathy would follow in her parents’ footsteps and open her own resource-based tourism business through negotiated joint ventures with First Nations. Her connection to the land and love of the North inspired her to acquire a floatplane private pilot license. During her years as an outfitter, she would be introduced to mining exploration. At the time, she was unaware mining would become a major part of her life.

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As Manager of the Regional Priorities and Jurisdiction department, Kathy has managed and facilitated complex files involving groups of First Nations, Industry and Government. Her ability to coordinate, collaborate and create positive opportunities of reconciliation and self-determination initiatives are recognized. She has contributed to changes to the Ontario Mining Act through coordination of the Matawa Mineral Technical Committee and Ontario. Kathy managed the establishment of several precedence setting agreements such as the Regional Framework Agreement with Ontario designed to plan for development of the mining area known as the “Ring of Fire”. In addition, she assisted in the creation of the Joint Jurisdiction Table between Matawa and Ontario for discussions on policy and governance. She was instrumental in the coordination and formalization of the Matawa Development Corporation created to address community infrastructure, business partnerships, business ownership and regional development opportunities. The corporation is setting a new standard of business partnership and development in remote areas of Ontario.

Kathy continues to focus on projects that make a positive change for people who believe in a better way forward.

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Ken Coates is one of Canada's foremost analysts of the challenges and opportunities facing the country.  Raised in Whitehorse, Yukon, his northern informed views of Canada bring original and creative insights into contemporary realities.  He works extensively on the impact of science and technology on society, particularly related to the world of work.  He has deep insights into the issues facing rural and small towns in Canada and, conversely, the rise of the economically dominant city states in the country.  Ken has also written extensively on Indigenous rights and economic development and has worked with Indigenous groups across Canada and internationally. He is a leading commentator on Arctic affairs and northern development.  Author of many books and articles, Ken contributes extensively to debates on television, radio, newspaper and social media.  Ken is President of Coates Holroyd Consulting, Distinguished Professor Emeritus from the University of Saskatchewan and Director of the Indigenous Program at the Macdonald Laurier Institute.

Kirsty Jackson is an Advisor with Catalyste+, a Canadian economic development organization that helps people build better lives by strengthening local economies in Canada and countries around the world. Since 1967, Catalyste+ has been building capacity with businesses, governments and community organizations to promote locally-driven, inclusive growth and sustainable development.

Kirsty has served in the Government of Canada, newspapers and community organizations, most recently in the development of a social innovation strategy for Canada. Kirsty joined Catalyste+ in 2022 as a volunteer Advisor working with clients to strengthen local skills and competencies. She has mentored individuals and organizations to develop business and strategic plans, identify grant money and prepare grant applications for, among others, economic empowerment, food security/food sovereignty and culture and language reclamation.

My name is Miriam Cook I am from Slate Falls First Nation.

I am a Registered Nurse and an entrepreneur.  I own The Cooks Stop & Shop in Slate Falls as well as the Burger Scoop in Ignace.  I have grown my business endeavour's to include a grocery store and restaurant in my home community.

Slate Falls is a small community of over 200 people on reserve.  Community members and visitors enjoy having a place to run to in the community for basic foods available to them.  Without Cooks Stop & Shop they would have to order in by air or make the two hour drive to Sioux Lookout.    

Ron Kanutski is an energetic social worker, cultural teacher, group facilitator, comedian, and musician who is a long-term resident of the Ogden East End community in Thunder Bay ON. He is the sole proprietor of With Care Consulting and Ron Kanutski Comedy working diligently throughout Canada and the USA to wherever he is called. Ron is of Ojibway and Cree roots and is from the Bear Clan. He is a band member of the Red Rock Band (Lake Helen 1st Nation) with roots from Moose Cree Nation.

Indigenous student researcher, prospective law student and PhD candidate of The James Bay Treaty, Treaty No. 9. Passionate about delivering self-determined and Indigenous-led solutions to treaty-related issues with a specialization in the opportunities of Modern Treaties.

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Scot Rubin is a Registered Professional Forester who currently fulfills the position of CEO/CFO for Lake Nipigon Forest Management Inc. (LNFMI). Scot is also the founder and owner of New Leaf Forestry, which is a forest management services firm based out of Thunder Bay, ON. Scot has worked in the forest industry for 15+ years and has excelled in all positions he has held during his tenure in the industry. Scot is experienced in a multitude of forestry, natural resource, and business-related disciplines, including:

• Wood fiber sales

• Structuring and negotiating third-party agreements

• Liaising with First Nation Communities, Industry and Government agencies

• Stakeholder consultation

• Forest renewal and tending

• Forest management planning

• Biomass fuel feedstock logistics

• Powerline/transmission line design, costing, and logistics

• Forest harvesting operations

Scot’s expertise is rooted in forestry, but he possesses the aptitude to apply his skill sets to any project he participates in or leads. An innate ability to capitalize on opportunities and a sharp instinct to take calculated risks makes him a forward thinker. His critical thinking and ability to produce innovative solutions makes him an asset to any project management team.

Shawn Sobush grew up in the small town of Red Rock, Ontario and is a member of the Red Rock Indian Band. He presently resides in the Robinson Huron Treaty, living with his family in Sudbury, Ontario. For the past fourteen years, Shawn was employed at Vale as the Supervisor (ORO) for the Vermillion Water Treatment Plant in Sudbury. In 2020, Shawn decided to change careers and began working at Anmar Mechanical and Electrical Contractors Ltd. as their Indigenous Relations and Business Development Coordinator. Anmar has had much success in the international market and continues to grow and expand both its capabilities and expertise in the Smelting, Refining and Steel Mills sectors. This success, along with their past performance, record, reputation, and commitment to furthering relations with Indigenous communities in Canada and around the world appealed to Shawn and his personal values, central beliefs and principles that have guided him through successful and challenging times. Shawn is currently the President of Asiniikaa Mining and Construction, an Indigenous-owned and led company.

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Steve is a CPA by trade and an alumnus of KPMG (Halifax and Victoria).

In the 1990s, Steve transitioned from KPMG to finance, serving as CFO (1993–2000) and then CEO (2001– 2008) of the BC Municipal Finance Authority (BCMFA). His duties included managing relationships with the Board of Directors, local government officials and staff, capital markets investors, rating agencies, and the banking syndicate. BCMFA borrows money in the capital markets on behalf of all cities, towns, regional districts, and other government bodies in the local government sector.

In 2008, Steve was hired by the FNFA (First Nations Finance Authority) and tasked with creating a pooled borrowing model specifically for First Nations across Canada. The goals were to have the capital markets recognize First Nations as a level of government, to obtain investment-grade credit ratings, and to access the debenture markets at interest rates similar to those achieved by provinces within Canada. The first debenture was launched in 2014. By January 2025, the FNFA had earned three investment-grade credit ratings, surpassed $3 billion in loans, had 190 First Nations as members, and was borrowing at interest rates just 1/10th of 1% above Ontario's rate. This $3 billion in loans created over 23,000 jobs across the Canadian economy and generated pathways to equity ownership opportunities.

In January 2025, Steve transitioned to National Bank as Managing Director of Indigenous Relations, with the goals of including Indigenous communities as equity owners in large-scale resource/business opportunities and ensuring these communities are respected as a level of government for day-to-day banking services.

Several times, at the request of the World Bank, Steve has developed and presented the beneficial concepts of pooled borrowing models for developing countries. He has also taught finance courses at colleges in the Vancouver area.

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Mr. Labelle is a VicePresident at the Canada Development Investment Corporation, where he leads thedesign and implementation of the $5B Indigenous Loan Guarantee Program, inaddition to several mandates to support the commercial interests of the Governmentof Canada.  He has over twenty years ofexperience in the federal public service and Crown corporations in a range ofeconomic policy areas.  Most recently,Sébastien was the executive lead for the Canada Innovation Corporation, whichis a subsidiary of CDEV.  

Prior to joining CDEV Sébastienspent five years as a Director General at Natural Resources Canada where he advancedmajor resource projects (such as the Trans-Mountain Expansion); led Indigenousconsultations on 4 major projects; and oversaw programs and policies to unlock Canada’sclean energy potential.

Sébastien spent 8years at the Department of Finance and the Privy Council Office where hecontributed to several federal Budgets and advised the Prime Minister and Cabinet.  He worked on major infrastructure programs atthe Department of National Defence; PPP Canada; and at the Department ofIndigenous Services where he focused on drinking water, schools and housing.

Sébastien has a master’sdegree in public administration from Queen’s University; a BA in history and politicalscience; and a certificate in public sector leadership and governance from theUniversity of Ottawa.

Tabatha, a proud member of the Nipissing First Nation, has earned several prestigious accolades for her leadership. In 2022, she was named CEO of the Year by the Ontario Chamber of Commerce, recognized as one of Canada’s Top 100 Most Powerful Women in 2023, and has been named a Top 100 Lobbyist in Canada for four consecutive years. As President and CEO of CCIB, she is committed to advancing reconciliation and promoting a thriving Indigenous economy for all Canadians. With her electrical engineering background, Tabatha champions Indigenous inclusion and diversity, particularly in Canada's energy sector. She also serves on numerous influential boards, furthering her advocacy for removing systemic barriers and fostering opportunities for Indigenous businesses and women across industries.

Tabatha is a member of Lac Seul First Nation, she has 30 years’ work experience in Finance for non-profit organizations and management. She is a former business owner and entrepreneur who brings her knowledge and skills gained over the years to help communities build capacity within and to help individuals on their path to success.

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With over 20 years of experience in economic development, Tara serves as the Manager of Economic Development at Matawa First Nations Management. Throughout her career, she has been dedicated to supporting First Nation communities and entrepreneurs in Northern Ontario. She has successfully promoted First Nation businesses in the global market which included Germany, the United Kingdom, the USA and across Canada. These efforts have generated wealth for entrepreneurs while building capacity and strengthening local economies.

A proven leader in building strategic partnerships, Tara has successfully collaborated with industry and al levels of government to foster economic growth and sustainable development. Her efforts have been instrumental in assisting communities identify opportunities, develop strategies, and implement impactful economic development projects.

Tara is passionate about empowering communities and creating long-term prosperity, she is dedicated to advancing initiatives for the communities she serves while driving economic progress.

Dr. Valerie Gideon is a proud member of the Mi'kmaq Nation of Gesgapegiag, Quebec, and a dedicated mother of two girls. She currently serves as President of the Federal Economic Development Agency for Northern Ontario and Deputy Minister of Crown-Indigenous Relations and Northern Affairs. Dr. Gideon also leads several initiatives aimed at supporting Indigenous employees, including the Indigenous Federal Employees Chairs and Champions Circle, and advocating for Indigenous inclusion in the workforce. With a PhD in Communications, she has held significant roles in government and Indigenous health advocacy. Dr. Gideon is also a founding member of the Canadian Society of Telehealth.

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Wendy is the Mayor of the Municipality of Shuniah and has served 4 terms on Council and is currently serving her 3rd term as Mayor. She is now the longest serving President of NOMA (Northwestern Ontario Municipal Assoc) and continues to be a strong advocate serving on many boards, committees, and a dedicated volunteer for many years in many areas. She is an Executive Member of the AMO board, the Chair of the Indigenous Advisory Board for AMO, and a member of the MOU team with the AMO that meet regularly with the Provincial Government. She is currently the Vice President of Indigenous Leadership, Partnership Strategies for Confederation College. In 2022 Municipal World names her the Women of Influence in Municipal Government Award. She was named the Northern Ontario Aboriginal Leadership Award recipient of the Northern Ontario Influential Women’s Awards