2025 Speakers

Clint Davis is CEO of Cedar Leaf Capital, Canada’s first majority Indigenous-owned investment dealer focused on fostering greater Indigenous participation in capital markets. He has over 10 years of experience in the financial sector, primarily in commercial banking. He served at the executive level for one of the big five banks where he developed and led the Indigenous Banking strategy. He was on the Board of Directors for Vancity Community Investment Bank (VCIB), the Schedule 1 bank wholly owned subsidiary of Vancity and Chair of the Governance and Executive Compensation Committee. He was also a member of the Investment Committee for the first and only Indigenous venture capital fund, Raven Capital Partners, in Canada.

Clint is a recognized national leader in Indigenous business and worked with Indigenous communities and development corporations from coast to coast to coast for over 20 years. He is the former Board Chair of Nunatsiavut Group of Companies, the economic development corporation for his community. He is also the former CEO of the Canadian Council for Aboriginal (now Indigenous) Business and the former CEO of Nunasi Corporation, an Inuit Development Corporation headquartered in Iqaluit, Nunavut.

Clint was recognized for his contribution to Indigenous business with the Indspire Award in the Business and Commerce category, the highest honour awarded to an individual by the Indigenous community. In 2015, Clint was recognized as a Distinguished Alumni by Acadia University. 

 A graduate of Harvard University, Clint holds his Master in Public Administration degree in business and government policy. He was also a Canada-US Fulbright Scholar. Prior to earning his master’s degree, Clint completed his Bachelor of Laws (LLB) at Dalhousie University, as well as his Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) in Finance from Acadia University. Clint has an ICD.D designation from the Institute of Corporate Directors. 

He is Inuk from Labrador and a Beneficiary under the Labrador Inuit Land Claim Agreement. 

Bio Coming Soon

Mr. James Bérubé is General Manager and Chief Operating Officer for Tshiuetin Rail Transportation (TSH). Under the direction of the Board of Directors, he implements the company’s strategic directions and oversees the activities of all departments. James has been with TSH since 2008, having held various positions, primarily in the operations department, including the role of Director of Operations from 2016 to 2022.

James is a member of the Naskapi Nation of Kawawachikamach. He was born in Schefferville and currently lives in Maliotenam with his partner and their two children. He maintains close ties with the communities served by Tshiuetin Rail Transportation, which gives him a sense of pride in the service the company has been providing to the communities in the north since it began operations in December 2005.

To ensure the long-term economic and social development of their community, the Innu Nations and communities of Uashat mak Mani-Utenam, Matimekush Lac-John, and the Naskapi Nation of  Kawawachikamach created Tshiuetin Rail Transportation ad began operations  in 2005 to operate the essential railway service between Emeril, Newfoundland and Labrador, and Schefferville, Quebec. TSH is the first railway in North America to be owned and operated by Indigenous communities. The TSH rail service is designated as an essential service that transports passengers, goods, and iron ore.

The company’s mission is to Offer an essential, safe, quality rail transportation service to members of our communities and all our customers. The company is also committed to creating sustainable employment opportunities for members of the communities while taking  pride in offering authentic rail transportation services that respect our culture and environment and create sustainable jobs for members of our communities.

In addition to maintaining a close connection between the communities, Tshiuetin Rail Transportation is constantly working to be recognized as a flagship Indigenous company, having become the go-to solution in rail transportation to support the well-being and economic growth of and for the communities and the development of the North.

James is passionate about his work, which drives him to take on the many challenges his professional life presents.  He and his team are constantly  working to ensure that Tshiuetin Rail Transportation continues its various projects aimed at improving the local economy, regional workforce and most importantly, its relations with their employees who are crucial to our operations and existnace.  TShieutin Railway Transportation employs around 150 employees during the busy season.  We are proud of the fact that 88% of workforce are members of our communities and hold federally regulated railway jobs in all departments and levels.

Hon. Leona Aglukkaq PC, has spent many years serving her community, Territory and her Country in various capacities. Prior to entering politics, she served as the Deputy Minister for the Department of Culture, Language, Elders and Youth for the Government of Nunavut.  In this capacity she worked with extraordinary people to preserve and promote the Inuit culture, traditional knowledge, language and art. In 2004 she decided to put her name forward to run in the Territorial election for the Nattilik riding and was elected and appointed Minister of Finance and House Leader and later Minister of Health and Social Services and Status of Women. 

In 2008 she decided to leave Territorial politics and ran for the Federal riding of Nunavut and was elected.  She became the first Inuk in Canadian history to be appointed as a Federal Minister. She served as the Minister of Health (Public Health Agency of Canada and the Canadian Institute of Health Research) and Regional Minister for the North. In 2011, she was reassigned to the portfolios of Minister of Environment (Parks Canada), Canadian Northern Economic Development Agency, Regional Minister for the North and Minister of the Arctic Council.

Despite the challenge of being from a remote region of the country she demonstrated considerable determination and passion to make a meaningful contribution to public life on behalf of all Canadians but at the forefront of her public life, her heart always remained in addressing the challenges faced by Indigenous People and the opportunities.

Currently she serves on various Boards in the private sector. 

Dr. Matthew Pike is a Nunatsiavut Inuk originally from Happy Valley – Goose Bay, Labrador. He holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Political Science and Aboriginal Studies (Memorial University), a Master of Jurisprudence in Energy Law degree (University of Tulsa), and a PhD in Population Medicine (University of Guelph), where he focused on the complex relationship between mining and Inuit well-being.

Matthew currently works with Rio Tinto as the Senior Manager, Indigenous Relations (North America), within the company’s Communities and Social Performance Area of Expertise. Prior to joining Rio Tinto, Matthew held leadership roles with Vale, Astaldi Canada, and Nalcor Energy in the Indigenous and community relations space, along with a short-term assignment with the Indigenous Peoples Secretariat of the Arctic Council while living in Norway and Finland. In 2020, Matthew joined the National Indigenous Economic Development Board’s Expert Advisory Panel, a role he held until March 2024 before beginning parental leave.

Matthew currently resides in St. John’s with his wife, Jillian, 3-year-old daughter, Hannah, and infant son, Thomas.

This latest career move follows an already illustrious career that has solidified his standing as a leading figure in Aboriginal law. Mr. Christmas’s journey in the legal profession began with his deep-rooted passion for Indigenous relations and reconciliation. His impetus has always been to deliver positive outcomes for the workforce, the communities, and the businesses he works with. With his lifelong career commitment to these issues, he has been instrumental in guiding businesses in developing Indigenous strategies that align with community interests and the broader business objectives.

As a consultant, Mr. Christmas has been an invaluable asset to numerous national and international corporations and government agencies. His expertise lies in building cultural understanding and forging strong partnerships with First Nations including the economic powerhouse that is his own community, Membertou First Nation. His insightful guidance and strategic thinking have helped Nations navigate the complexities of Indigenous relations and secure beneficial agreements. One of Mr. Christmas’s most notable skills is his ability to negotiate effectively. He possesses strong closing tactics and has shown remarkable success in overcoming challenges and mitigating risks. His adeptness in negotiation has not only driven superior business performance but also ensured long-term profitability for all parties involved.

Mr. Christmas is also a sought-after speaker, having presented nationally and internationally on creating Indigenous culturally sensitive business practices. His speeches are always well-received, reflecting his detailed understanding of Indigenous cultures and the need for businesses to respect and honor these traditions in their operations. In addition to his consulting work, Mr. Christmas has also made significant contributions to the field of Aboriginal law. He was formerly a partner at a renowned law firm, where he offered a full range of sophisticated business transaction, advocacy, and advisory services. His leadership in the firm’s Aboriginal law practice further underscored his expertise and commitment to Indigenous self-determination and wealth-creation.

His move to JFK Law’s Six Nations office is a natural progression in his career. As Senior Counsel, he will bring his wealth of experience and deep understanding of Indigenous relations to the forefront. His role will be pivotal in shaping the firm’s approach to Aboriginal law and in fostering stronger, more meaningful relationships with First Nations as they do wealth-creation and larger, complex deals. In his new role, Mr. Christmas aims to further his impact on Indigenous relations and reconciliation. With his proven track record and unwavering commitment, he is poised to make significant contributions to JFK Law and to the broader network of Indigenous professionals. His move to is not just a firm advancement in gaining his trust and participation in the work that we do, but also a testament to his dedication to serving First Nations across Canada.

Bernd Christmas’s career is the epitome of dedication to the cause of Indigenous people and their rights. His expertise, experience, and passion for the cause are an immense asset to JFK Law and will undoubtedly play a key role in shaping the firm’s approach to Aboriginal law and its relationship with the most progressive and innovative Nations as well as those that have tremendous opportunity and a need for a trusted navigator to set out strategic focus.

Anishinaabekwe from Curve Lake First Nation, Mallory Rose has led marketing and community engagement initiatives at ICCE since 2023.

ICCE National Conference lead, hosting 200+ Indigenous communities to Vancouver, BC from May 26-28, 2025, as ICCE’s flagship event.

Her primary role at ICCE is to support the technical team to deliver clear and engaging cumulative effects resources, workshops and webinars to Indigenous communities from coast to coast to coast. Mallory supports in strategic communications and community engagement strategy for ICCE’s Community Support Program.

Mallory is an innovative, community-focused leader with over fifteen years experience in communications towards the advancement of Indigenous wellness, culture and education.

Throughout her career, Mallory has facilitated presentations and learning sessions for some of North America’s largest brands, as well as Indigenous organizations, educational institutions, and government.

Jessica George is a partner in Gowling WLG’s Toronto office, specializing in corporate law with a focus on mergers and acquisitions, joint ventures, investments, corporate reorganizations, and governance.

She advises clients across a wide range of sectors and industries, including alcohol, hospitality, energy, infrastructure, and technology.

Jessica is passionate about supporting Indigenous governments, organizations, and businesses in enhancing their economic development and participation, bringing to bear her deep corporate law expertise and nuanced understanding of her clients’ interests. She is dedicated to increasing Indigenous participation in the economy, guiding clients through participation in major projects that impact their lands, making investments in key sectors, forming strategic joint ventures, and structuring economic development entities with sound corporate governance. Her unique insight and commitment make her a trusted advisor to Indigenous clients seeking sustainable growth and impactful investments and partnerships.

Jessica is a proud member of Couchiching First Nation in Northwestern Ontario.

Jessica is currently serving as a Co-Chair of the Momentum Committee in the Toronto office, focusing on the advancement of the firm’s Equity, Diversity and Inclusion strategy.

Dr. Marie Delorme is CEO of The Imagination Group of Companies an Indigenous corporation comprised of three entities, each providing services to industry, governments, and Indigenous groups in the areas of brand management, business consulting, and ceremonial tobacco. She serves on the boards of Premium Brands Holding Corporation and the Donner Canadian Foundation. She also serves on the Order of Canada Advisory Council and the Advisory Board to the Canadian Police College.

A Member of the Order of Canada, she has received the Indspire Award in Business and Commerce; and was named as one of Canada’s 100 Most Powerful Women. Other awards include: the University of Calgary Dr. Douglas Cardinal Award; Alberta Chamber of Commerce Business Award of Distinction; Calgary Chamber of Commerce Salute to Excellence Award, Métis Nation Entrepreneurial Leadership Award, and the Alberta Centennial Medal.

Dr. Delorme holds a Bachelor of Science degree, a Master of Business Administration from Queen’s University, and both a PhD and an Honorary Doctor of Laws from the University of Calgary.

A Traditional Teacher and Community Nookmis, Elder Peters is a member of Jiima’aaganing (Seine River) First Nation.

Throughout her career, she has worked in various consultative capacities with multiple Indigenous organizations in Toronto, including Aboriginal Legal Services and Anduhyaun Inc., and she has previously supported Indigenous students at the University of Toronto through First Nations House.

A residential school survivor, Elder Peters is regularly called upon to share her stories, teachings, and cultural expertise at events throughout the city.

Helen Bobiwash (Ninaatoot baakshkagin miikansan) is Anishinabe kwe from the Thessalon First Nation in the Robinson Huron Treaty Territory. With over 35 years of extensive experience in financial management, Helen has dedicated her career to empowering Indigenous communities through effective financial practices. Her experience spans a diverse range of sectors including First Nation administrations, economic development corporations, community-based health services, education self-government, and child welfare agencies.

She has successfully represented First Nations in fiscal negotiations with both the federal and provincial governments, advocating for equitable solutions that benefit Indigenous communities.

As a Board Director of the First Nations Financial Management Board, Helen has a crucial role in shaping strategies to enhance community wellbeing. In her current role as Director of Indigenous Awareness Programs for Cambium Indigenous Professional (CIPS) Inc., Helen leads initiatives that promote understanding between Indigenous and non-Indigenous communities.

Additionally, Helen serves on several boards including the Public Sector Accounting Board and Building Ontario Fund. She also services on the Indigenous Growth Fund Investment Committee.

The Honourable Jason Kenney recently completed a distinguished twenty-five year career in public service. In his twenties he built the Canadian Taxpayers Federation into one of Canada’s most influential advocacy groups, serving as its President and CEO. He was elected to Parliament in 1997, and was re-elected six times with an average of 76% of the vote. He served in key opposition roles, including Shadow Finance Minister. As a senior member of the Harper government, he led some of the largest federal departments as Minister of Citizenship, Immigration and Multiculturalism; Minister of Employment and Social Development; and Minister of National Defence, while chairing the influential Cabinet Operations Committee. The National Post called him “perhaps Canada’s best immigration minister, ever.” In 2016 Jason launched a successful campaign to unite Alberta’s free enterprise parties, going on to win a landslide majority to become Alberta’s eighteenth Premier. His government focused on the successful renewal of Alberta’s economy, while working with Indigenous people to create economic opportunity. Jason holds two honourary doctorates and was voted “best overall parliamentarian” by his colleagues. He now serves as a Senior Advisor at Bennett Jones LLP, and BMO, is a Senior Fellow of the C.D. Howe Institute, and is a member of several corporate boards.

Lindsay Patrick is Managing Director and Head of Strategy, Marketing and Sustainability at RBC Capital Markets and a member of the firm’s Operating Committee. She is responsible for the advancement of the RBC CM business, digital, brand, and marketing strategy, supporting the firm’s overall growth and performance ambitions. Lindsay also oversees RBC Economics, supporting the delivery of market- leading insights, macro analysis and the convening global thought leaders.

As RBC CM’s Sustainability and Impact lead, Lindsay advances firm initiatives and is a senior adviser on these matters to RBC’s Group Executive. She is responsible for the RBC CM Sustainable Finance Group, and with her global team, spearheads the provision of solutions and advice for RBC’s institutional and corporate clients across all areas of sustainable finance that incorporates both environmental and social perspectives.

Lindsay has over two decades of experience in investment banking, spanning trading floors across North America, Europe, Australia, and Asia. She began her career with RBC in Investment Banking in Toronto and spent 10 years in various roles across Global Markets at a global bank in London before returning to Toronto.

Lindsay received her MBA with Honours in Finance from The Wharton School at the University of Pennsylvania, her BBA with Honours in International Business from Bishop’s University and is a CFA Charterholder. She is an active volunteer within her local community, serving on the Board of Directors for the Oakville Community Foundation as well as the Holland Bloorview Kids Rehabilitation Hospital Foundation. She sits on the Advisory Board for the Institute of Sustainable Finance and is recognized as leader in sustainability in Canada as a Clean50 Honoree. Lindsay is married and the proud mother of four boys.

Paul is a Mohawk at Kahnawake with over 18 years of experience in finance, business development, strategy, deal negotiation and revenue generation. 

In 2024, Paul was elected as a Council Chief in his community of Kahnawake. He leads the Economic Development Portfolio as well as the Administrative Affairs Portfolio. He is also on the Infrastructure and Operations, Lands, Heritage as well as the Regulatory Boards and Commissions Portfolios. Paul also serves as the Chairperson of the Investment and Revenue Committee that oversees the Kahnawake Sovereign Wealth Fund (KSWF).

As a senior finance executive for the Mohawk Council of Kahnawake (MCK) Paul negotiated several transactions generating over $300M in new revenues for his community of Kahnawake across multiple industries. Paul also served as the chairperson to the community pension plan of over 1,000 public sector employees. The plan had a 12% annualized return and plan assets grew from $80M to $250M under Paul’s tenure. 

Paul holds a Bachelor of Commerce from the John Molson School of Business (JMSB) at Concordia University. He is also an alumni of the Governor General’s Canadian Leadership Conference (GGCLC).

Michael Sabia is the President and CEO of Hydro‑Québec. He served as the Deputy Minister of the Department of Finance Canada from 2020 to 2023. He is also the former Director of the Munk School of Global Affairs & Public Policy at the University of Toronto.

From March 2009 to January 2020, Mr. Sabia served as President and CEO of the Caisse de dépôt et placement du Québec (CDPQ), where he oversaw the strategic direction of CDPQ and the global growth of the organization.

Before joining CDPQ, Mr. Sabia held senior positions with BCE, including President and CEO. From 1993 to 1999, he was a senior executive with Canadian National Railway, where he became Chief Financial Officer. Mr. Sabia spent the preceding decade working as a senior official in the Government of Canada, as the Deputy Secretary to the Cabinet and in senior positions in the Department of Finance.

Mr. Sabia has been Chair of the Board of the Canada Infrastructure Bank. He was also a member of the Canadian Government’s Advisory Council on Economic Growth. Mr. Sabia serves on the Mastercard Foundation Board of Directors.

Mr. Sabia is an Officer of the Order of Canada. He obtained a BA in Economics and Politics from the University of Toronto and an M. Phil. in Economics and Politics from Yale University

Patrick Decostre is the President and Chief Executive Officer of Boralex. After spending nearly 18 years developing the company’s European business, in 2019 he transferred to Montreal to become Vice President and Chief Operating Officer. Today, with now over 20 years of experience in renewable energy and being actively involved in the protection of the environement, Patrick has forged a strong link between his extensive European expertise and Boralex’s Quebec and North American roots. 

Patrick began his career in 1996, working in France and the United Kingdom, where he quickly gained recognition for his deep understanding of the energy industry, his strategic acumen and his business development expertise. As Boralex’s first employee in Europe, he launched the company’s wind business and directed all its development and operations activities. Thanks to his efforts and those of the team he built from scratch, Boralex has been since 2014 the leading independent producer of onshore wind power in France.

Now President of the company, Patrick is making his mark with his characteristic human and inclusive leadership, forward-looking mindset, and ambitious vision for Boralex. That vision is reflected in the company’s 2025 strategic plan, which he began developing with his team immediately upon taking the helm in 2020. The plan features significant growth objectives coupled with the company’s corporate social responsibility (CSR) strategy as a core element. 

Day in and day out, Patrick can count on the support of his wife and their three children, who embarked with him on his Montreal adventure in 2019. Passionate about the great outdoors, active and eager to explore new horizons, his family fuels his drive to contribute every day to the fight against climate change. 

A native of Belgium, Patrick Decostre is a graduate of École Polytechnique (Brussels) in civil engineering in physics, the Solvay Business School (Brussels) in business administration and the Oxford University’s Saïd Business School in various special programmes. Before joining Boralex in 2001, he worked for EDF (Électricité de France) as an engineer and industrial project manager. Patrick has also served on the boards of France Énergie Éolienne (FEE) and the Cercle des dirigeants d’entreprises franco-québécois.

Fred became the MMBC’s CEO in 2020, a position that brought him back to his roots, the economic development field. After he graduated with a bachelor’s degree in administration with a major in Marketing from the University of Moncton in 2004, he moved to Ottawa, where he held strategic positions and developed an extensive network of contacts. He worked for the Congress of Aboriginal Peoples and the Aboriginal Financial Officers Association Canada.

Back in Listuguj in 2011, Fred was a highly sought-after person to oversee the economic development and expansion opportunities his community wanted to seize. His high versatility and knowledge of the Mi’gmaq, English and French languages and cultures made him a key person in dealing with provincial taxation issues and the major land claim that led in 2013 to a $ 65 million compensation from the federal government to the benefit of all Listugujewaq. He also worked as Director General of the Mi’gmaq of Gesgapegiag Band Council for five years before joining the MMBC team. As its CEO, he is responsible for developing and expanding natural resources projects and other economic ventures to create sustainable prosperity for all three Mi’gmaq communities.

As the son of a Mi’gmaq father and an Acadian mother, Fred’s upbringing was a rich tapestry of cultures. He was raised among English-speaking Listuguj children and French- speaking friends from the Acadian community of New Brunswick. His intimate knowledge of historic rivalries and tensions, coupled with his family background, has instilled in him a deep sensitivity to the realities of both communities. His grandfather’s timeless advice, ‘Never judge a book by its cover, and never burn bridges,’ continues to guide him.

John McKenzie is the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of TMX Group.

Mr. McKenzie is a member of the TMX Group Board of Directors and also a member of the Board of Directors of several TMX Group subsidiaries.

Mr. McKenzie has worked for TMX for over 20 years; prior to his appointment as CEO on August 17, 2020, he served as Chief Financial Officer and was responsible for corporate strategy, corporate development, investor relations and the financial management of the company as well as for the administrative oversight of TMX Group’s Capital Formation business. He has led various TMX acquisitions, including the Maple transaction, and the acquisitions of Montréal Exchange and Trayport.

From July 2015 to August 2016, Mr. McKenzie served as President of CDS, Canada’s equity and fixed income clearing house and a whollyowned subsidiary of TMX Group. Prior to that he was the Chief Operating Officer (COO) and CFO of CDS.

Mr. McKenzie is a Fellow of the Institute of Chartered Professional Accountants of Ontario (FCPA, FCMA) and has an MBA from Edinburgh Business School, Heriot-Watt University and an Honours BA from Wilfrid Laurier University. He has served on a number of boards, and is currently the Working Committee Chairman of the World Federation of Exchanges, and a Board Member and Treasurer for the Hamilton Health Sciences Foundation.

Shawn Cooper is a founding member of the firm’s global Board and CEO Advisory Partners and serves Canadian, US and international clients. Based in Toronto, he leverages more than 25 years of experience advising corporate, governance and investment leaders on strategic leadership decisions, including CEO succession and transition, C-suite assessment and development, and board effectiveness, composition, diversity and culture. He serves clients across a wide spectrum of industries as well as family-owned enterprises and NGOs. As a member of the global Operating Committee, he led one of the firm’s four worldwide geographic regions. He was elected to the Executive Committee and served on several other committees overseeing governance and nomination, compensation, promotion and advancement, quality standards, pricing policy, and learning and development.

Prior to joining Russell Reynolds Associates, Shawn served in various corporate strategy and crisis management roles for 10 years in the banking industry. Reporting to the CEO, Canadian Bankers Association, he spearheaded the industry’s international competitiveness policy agenda and served as the NAFTA and WTO negotiations representative. At Scotiabank, Shawn specialized in corporate development, growth strategies for emerging businesses, and Canadian and international regulatory policy. Later based in New York, he worked in the financial institutions rating group at S&P Global.

Roberta L. Jamieson O.C., I.P.C, LLB, LLd (Hon), Director, RBC ,Deloitte Canada and Chile, former President & CEO, Indspire. Roberta Jamieson is Mohawk who has achieved many firsts. They include being the first First Nation woman in Canada to earn a law degree; the first woman Ombudsman of Ontario; and the first woman elected Chief of the Six Nations of the Grand River Territory. Roberta has long been recognized as an accomplished expert in alternative dispute resolution and is an effective and visionary member of corporate boards, with an acknowledged expertise in Environmental, Social and Governance matters. She is currently on the board of directors of the Royal Bank of Canada , where she sits on the Risk and Governance committees , and Deloitte Canada and Chile, where she sits on the Governance and Succession committee , the Strategy, Transformation and Brand committee and the Quality committee . She is a former member of the Board of Directors of Ontario Power Generation and Hydro One . At the request of Prime Minister Trudeau, Roberta served on the inaugural Gender Equality Advisory Council during Canada’s G7 Presidency. As President of Indspire, Canada’s largest Indigenous charity, Roberta oversaw an eightfold increase in bursaries and scholarships. Charity Intelligence Canada named Indspire one of the 10 Canadian Charities with the most impact and Macleans and the Financial Post chose it as one of Canada’s Top Charities. Roberta has continued her involvement in philanthropy, as a Founding Visionary of the Prosperity Project and as a member of the board of directors of the Rideau Hall Foundation where she Co-Chairs a national initiative to increase the number of Indigenous teachers in Canada to more than 10,000.  Roberta Jamieson has received 31 honorary degrees, earned numerous awards including the IPC designation from the Indigenous Bar Association , appointment to the WXM  Hall of Fame , CCAB’s  Indigenous Women in Leadership Award ,and has been recognized by the Public Policy Forum for her outstanding contributions to the quality of public policy and governance in Canada. She is an Officer of the Order of Canada.

Alison began her appointment as EDC’s president and CEO in February 2025, returning to lead the organization where she spent 14 years on various teams early in her career.

Alison’s work life has spanned businesses and continents, from leading EDC’s Asian private equity investment strategy while based in Beijing, to holding several vice presidencies and a senior leadership role at BDC Capital in Ottawa and Toronto.

During her time in Asia, she gained an understanding of the challenges Canadian exporters can face when working to scale their business in markets overseas.

Throughout her career in finance, Alison has had the privilege of working with Canadian companies of all sizes and across all sectors. She knows the potential of these businesses is limitless, and that growing their presence in the international marketplace will help ensure prosperity in the Canadian and global economies.

Her desire to drive EDC’s raison d’etre – to make Canada and the world better through trade – is a key reason Alison accepted the offer to take on the presidency.

She also brings with her a 25-year track record of mentoring and leading high-performing teams, building strategic relationships with businesses, investors, fund managers and a range of stakeholders to drive success.

Her profound experience in global trade finance, capital markets, risk management, international business development and the innovation economy will be critical as EDC and its customers continue to navigate today’s complexities, challenges and opportunities.

Just prior to returning to EDC, Alison was CEO at MaRS Discovery District, North America’s largest urban innovation hub.

Alison earned her Bachelor of Arts degree, in commerce and economics and with Honours, from the University of Toronto, before earning a Master in public administration and public policy from the London School of Economics and her Chartered Financial Analysts Designation.

She is a founding member of the Private Equity Women’s Investment Network Canada, sits on the board of Toronto’s Good Shepherd Ministries and is a member of the Institute of Corporate Directors.

The corporate value that resonates most:  Alison embraces and identifies with all of EDC’s values but, if forced to rank them, puts passion for customers and caring at the top of the list.

Margaret Kenequanash has spent over 20 years leading initiatives to bring reliable power to First Nations in northern Ontario. She has been CEO of Wataynikaneyap Power since August 2017: an Indigenous-led, licensed transmission entity that brought grid connection to remote First Nations previously powered by diesel generators. Margaret has a vast wealth of knowledge gleaned from over 25 years in various high-level positions, including being on the Sioux Lookout Municipal Council from 1990-1994 and Executive Director of the Shibogama First Nations Council from 2005-2017. Margaret carries the distinction of being the first female Chief in her community at North Caribou Lake First Nation when she was elected in 1996. She is well known and respected throughout First Nation communities and government for her work in promoting opportunities and better quality of life for First Nation Peoples.

In her first attempt to attain public office in 2009, Kahsennenhawe Sky-Deer was elected to the Mohawk Council of Kahnawà:ke. She served for fifteen consecutive years, culminating with her election as Grand Chief in 2021. Highlights of her tenure included the approval and construction of the brand new multi-million dollar facility to house the cultural center/museum, theatre, and tourism office, and the negotiation and signing of an historic multi-million agreement partnership agreement with Hydro-Québec (the province’s hydroelectric utility). 

She is CEO and President of Sky-Deer Consulting; Vice President at Dable Advisory and Consulting Services and Vice President at Panorama Real Estate Services. She is also the Co-Chair of the Northeast Grid Planning Forum, sits on the President’s Advisory at Concordia University, and is a water protector of the Great Lakes and St. Lawrence River on the Biinaagami Circle. Kahsennenhawe is a proud member of (and advocate for) the 2SLGBTQ+ community.

She speaks her Kanienké:ha language and actively participates in her community’s Kanien’kehá:ka (Mohawk) cultural life. A noted athlete, she spent six years as a professional football quarterback in the United States, after which she graduated from the University of Central Florida, where she earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology.

She is married and continues to live in Kahnawà:ke, where she was born and raised.

Jake Sinclair is the CEO for Cowessess Ventures Ltd. and is a successful business owner based in Regina, SK. He is an Alumni of University of Regina with a BBA, and MBA with the Levene School of Business. Jake is from George Gordon First Nation and grew up in his home community. Since leaving his community he has work experience as an entrepreneur and with the Provincial Government, dedicating 7 years with SLGA and Ministry of Trade and Export. In his spare time, he likes to stay active by participating in organized events like marathons and golf tournaments.

As the Executive Director, Shane Seibel leads the business investments of the Southern Ute Indian Tribe Growth Fund (Growth Fund), a company owned by the Southern Ute Indian Tribe. Headquartered on the Southern Ute Indian Reservation in Southwest Colorado, the Growth Fund oversees a significant portfolio of on and off-reservation investments, including real estate, private equity, energy exploration, production, and midstream companies. The Growth Fund has committed substantial capital, and business units have a combined market value of over $4 billion. 

Since assuming leadership, Shane has driven critical organizational changes and steered the Growth Fund to outstanding performance, even amidst a global pandemic and significant market challenges. He also chairs the Growth Fund Management Committee, offering strategic guidance to the Tribal Council on all enterprise business investments.

Prior to his role as Executive Director, Shane has demonstrated his leadership capabilities through various positions within the Growth Fund. He successfully led numerous projects both on and off the reservation, including the restoration of plugged and abandoned well sites, residential development, and stream restoration. As the owner and operator of ONE Enterprises, LLC, Shane’s leadership extended to entrepreneurship. His natural aptitude for management and development is further evidenced by his years of coaching local high school athletics. 

Shane earned a Bachelor of Arts in Business Administration/Management from Fort Lewis College and completed coursework in organizational leadership and strategic innovation and change from the University of Denver. Shane is an active member of Tribal Sovereign Wealth (TSW), a networking group of tribal entities and business executives aiming to support and advocate for the rights and self-determination of Indigenous tribes. 

He is a proud enrolled member of the Southern Ute Indian Tribe and resides in Ignacio, CO, with his wife, Melanie. Together they have six children and 12 grandchildren. He is a lifelong learner, farmer/rancher, coach, Sundancer, and entrepreneur.

The Honourable Lisa Raitt joined CIBC Capital Markets in January 2020, having previously worked in both the public and private sectors. Ms. Raitt’s current focus is on senior client coverage and business development with clients in the energy, infrastructure and industrial sectors, which align closely with her deep expertise.

Prior to her current role, Ms. Raitt was the President and CEO of the Toronto Port Authority. She was elected into the House of Commons in 2008, where she went on to hold three senior portfolios serving as Minister of Natural Resources, Minister of Labour, and Minister of Transport. Most recently, Ms. Raitt was the Deputy Leader of the Official Opposition and the Conservative Party of Canada.

Ms. Raitt holds a Bachelor of Science degree from St. Francis Xavier University and a master’s degree in Chemistry from the University of Guelph. She possesses an LL.B from Osgoode Hall Law School and was called to the Ontario bar in 1998.

In June 2024, Lisa was presented with an Honorary Doctorate from the University of Ottawa.

Rod Phillips is a business and public policy leader and lifelong community volunteer. He is the Vice Chair of Canaccord Genuity Corporation, the Chair of Toronto Global and a member of the board directors of the Aecon Group Inc. (ARE:TO) and Petal Health. 

In 2018, Rod was elected to represent the riding of Ajax. While in government, he served as the Minister of Finance, the Minister Long Term Care and the Minister of Environment, Conservation and Parks. Prior to his public service, Rod was the President and CEO of the Ontario Lottery and Gaming Corporation (OLG) and the health and productivity company Morneau-Shepell (Lifeworks).  He served as the Chair of the Board of Postmedia Network Inc., Canadian Chair and Global Advisory Board member of AI unicorn Afiniti and on the corporate boards of Data Communications Management, Top Aces, and the Interprovincial Lottery Corporation. Rod began his career as a management consultant with KPMG and also worked with Goodmans LLP and as Chief of Staff to the first Mayor of the amalgamated city of Toronto. 

Rod was selected as one of Canada’s Top 40 Under 40 and as one of the “Best of the Best “on the 10th Anniversary of that award.  With his investment partner the Clairvest Group, he was awarded the Canadian Venture Capital Association Deal of the Year in the Private Equity category.  He has chaired and served on numerous community boards and in 2010 he was appointed Honorary Lieutenant Colonel, 32nd Combat Engineers Regiment headquartered at Downsview Base, Toronto.

Kimberly is a mother, proud Mi’kmaq, a seasoned leader in Canada’s public service, and the Assistant Deputy Minister of Nòkwewashk.

Throughout her 25+-year federal government career, a significant part of Kimberly’s work has focused on responding to the needs and concerns of marginalized Canadians. One of Kimberly’s greatest gifts is her ability to bridge the divide between community and government.

Since 2019, Kimberly has worked at Natural Resources Canada. In her current position, she is responsible for leading the Department’s reconciliation and regulatory efforts, as well as Indigenous inclusion in the natural resource sector. Prior to this role, she served as Associate Assistant Deputy Minister, Mineral Policy and Critical Minerals.

Kimberly graduated from Carleton University with Honours in Law and lives in Ottawa.

Brad Harker is a Foreign Service officer with the U.S. Department of Commerce, Foreign Commercial Service. He is currently serving as the Principal Commercial Officer at the U.S. Consulate in Toronto, Canada.  In this position, Brad and his team assist U.S. companies to develop their international sales, marketing, and trade efforts in Canada, with specific emphasis on the greater Toronto region.  From 2019-2023, Brad served as the Senior Commercial Officer at the U.S. Consulate in Hong Kong where he spearheaded U.S. business development and advocacy efforts for Hong Kong and Macau.  From 2014-2018, Brad was the Commercial Officer Team Leader for the aviation, rail, energy and environment sectors at the U.S. Embassy in Beijing, China.

From 2010-2013, Brad served as the Senior or Commercial Officer at the U.S. Embassy in Belgrade, Serbia with additional responsibilities in Bosnia & Herzegovina and Montenegro. From 2006-2010, Brad was the Principle Commercial Officer at the U.S. Consulate in Osaka, Japan where he was responsible for supporting U.S. Commercial interests in Western Japan. Brad’s first posting was in Athens, Greece from 2001-2004.  

Brad joined the Commercial Service in November of 2000 after working as the International Sales Manager for Winnemucca Farms, a large food ingredients company located in northern Nevada. At Winnemucca Farms, Brad oversaw the company’s international export business in Japan, South America and Europe. From 1997 to 2000, Brad was an International Trade Specialist for the State of Nevada’s Commission on Economic Development. 

Brad participated in the Japanese Exchange and Teaching (JET) Program from 1994-1996 as an Assistant Language Instructor (ALT). Following JET, Brad worked in the import/export divisions of two Japanese multinational corporations, T-One Inc., a manufacturer of sports clothing, and Panasonic Avionics Systems, a manufacturer of in-flight entertainment systems for commercial aircraft.

Brad is a native of northern Nevada and has a Bachelors degree in Marketing from the University of Nevada-Reno (1993) and an MBA from the College of William and Mary, Raymond A Mason School of Business (2018).  Brad is fluent in Mandarin, Japanese and Greek.  Brad is married with two children and enjoys skiing and hiking in his spare time.

Chinyere is a nationally recognized business and social impact leader known for advancing innovation and organizational effectiveness across a wide variety of challenging operating environments. She is the executive Head of RBC Origins, leading RBC’s enterprise Indigenous markets strategy, Indigenous Banking business and associated Climate and Sustainability and Impact initiatives while providing thought leadership on intersectional matters related to financial services, governance, operational and transformational change.

Previously, Chinyere led a team of Vice Presidents in Commercial Financial Services who delivered trusted strategic advice for businesses, business owners, and their employees. Within Royal Bank of Canada, Chinyere’s leadership spans Personal banking, Commercial banking, Financial Planning, Group Risk Management and Enterprise Strategy. Her strategic capacities have been focused on enabling proactive, helpful, and relevant advice for Canadians.

Currently Chinyere chairs Governance on the Wilfrid Laurier University Board of Governors and is the Ontario Regional Representative for the War Amputations of Canada. She has also served as a board director for Ontario Trillium Foundation and Women’s College Hospital in Toronto. Chinyere holds a Master of Business Administration (M.B.A.) from Rotman School of Management at the University of Toronto, a Bachelor of Arts from the University of British Columbia, and a Personal Financial Planning (P.F.P.) designation.

As a life-long, active community leader, in 2013, Chinyere received the Queen Elizabeth II Diamond Jubilee Award for service to Canada. In 2020, she was recognized as an RBC Global Citizen Award winner which acknowledges top-performing employees who have displayed an incredible commitment to giving time and expertise to communities by volunteering and leading charitable initiatives.

Wáhiakatste is committed to advancing Indigenous-led investments that drive meaningful real social, environmental, and economic impact. At Raven Outcomes, she brings together communities, investors, governments, and philanthropists to unlock capital and scale solutions grounded in Indigenous priorities.

Her career spans consulting, education, and community development, unified by a lifelong commitment to Indigenous self-determination and excellence. She holds degrees from Dartmouth College and McGill University.

Wáhiakatste is Onkwehón:we from the Kanien’kehá:ka [Mohawk] Nation at Kahnawà:ke.

Claire Sault was elected Chief on December 9, 2023, and served on the Missisaugas of the Credit Council through a bi-election since October 22, 2022. She formerly worked as the CEO of Northwind Business Development, a company wholly owned by Caldwell First Nation. Prior, Chief Sault served as the CEO for Kettle & Stony Point First Nation Administration with a large staff. During the Covid pandemic, Ms. Sault worked in a consulting capacity and prior to that, served as CEO of Noozhoo Nokiyan Limited Partnership owned by the Mississaugas of Scugog Island First Nation. She was the President of a non-profit in California called Divine Choices and Vice President and Director of Human Resources for a large public company and its subsidiary called First American Trust. Both, in the United States.

She was born and raised on the Mississaugas of the Credit First Nation with deep roots and strong ties to her mother’s First Nation (Six Nations) as well.

After returning to Canada, she functioned in various consultative capacities including working with a First Nation in Saskatchewan. Prior to moving to the United States though, she gained experience within various Aboriginal agencies, including tourism, addictions treatment, First Nation governments and various service organizations.

As President of a non-profit and services company, from 2007 through 2013; she travelled extensively promoting the mission and cause of child sexual abuse prevention through public speaking engagements, social media, and TV commercials.

She’s also an author and co-author of various papers, teaching materials and a book called “The Lie That Binds”.

Ms. Sault received a master’s degree in business administration from Simon Fraser University with her focus on Aboriginal Business and Leadership.

Her background provides a broad expertise in business and financial management and more importantly, an understanding of the Indigenous way of life.

Ms. Sault is the second youngest of a large family and resides on the Mississaugas of the Credit First Nation.

Mark Podlasly, a member of the Nlaka’pamux Nation in British Columbia, serves as Chief Executive Officer at the First Nations Major Projects Coalition (FNMPC). Mark has been integral to the development and growth of FNMPC since its inception, driving engagement and advocacy for greater economic participation for member nations in major projects across Canada. Mark also led the coalition’s policy and research initiatives as the Chief Sustainability Officer.

Mark also chairs the First Nations Limited Partnership (pipelines), serves as a Trustee of the Nlaka’pamux Nation Legacy Trust, and sits on the boards of CIBC and Hydro One. In 2017, he received the Governor General of Canada’s Meritorious Service Medal; recognized for his contributions to Indigenous economic development. A graduate of the Harvard Kennedy School of Government, Mark is a regular speaker at global business and governance events, sharing his expertise at global forums and in boardrooms across Canada.

Mike Henry is Chief Executive Officer of BHP, the world’s largest mining company since 2020. He leads a global workforce of 90,000 people, with major operations and projects in Australia and North and South America.

BHP’s purpose is to bring people and resources together to build a better world. BHP is creating significant value for shareholders, and society more broadly, through sustainably meeting the world’s growing demand for certain metals and minerals, including those needed for the energy transition and for more sustainable agriculture.

BHP is a major producer of steel making raw materials and copper and will be one of the world’s leading producers of potash by the end of this decade. BHP is currently investing $18 billion CDN in the Jansen potash project in Saskatchewan, with first production expected in 2026.

BHP has established Opportunities Agreements with six First Nations in Saskatchewan, formalizing their relationship. The first agreement was signed in 2013 with subsequent agreements being signed in 2014 & 2020.

In August of 2024 BHP launched its Canada Indigenous Partnership Plan (CIPP), a framework for developing respectful relationships with other Indigenous peoples that reflect their distinct perspectives, aspirations and rights, and for seeking mutually beneficial outcomes.

Mike was born in Canada and holds a Bachelor of Science (Chemistry) from the University of British Columbia.

Joseph P. Kalt is the Ford Foundation Professor (Emeritus) of International Political Economy at the John F. Kennedy School of Government at Harvard University. In 1987, Prof. Kalt founded (with Stephen Cornell) the Harvard Kennedy School Project on Indigenous Governance and Development (formerly, the Harvard Project on American Indian Economic Development). He continues to serve as the Project’s director. From 2000 to 2006, Prof. Kalt served as the faculty chair of the Harvard University Native American Program (HUNAP), where he provided faculty support for the successful effort to secure continuously renewing University support for the Program. In 2023, Prof. Kalt and his wife, Judy Gans, endowed the Senior Fellowship in Indigenous Governance and Development at the Harvard Kennedy School, ensuring in perpetuity that among the world leaders Harvard routinely hosts will be accomplished and inspiring leaders in Indigenous governance and development.

Prof. Kalt is a principal author of The State of the Native Nations: Conditions under U.S. Policies of Self-Determination (with the Harvard Project), co-editor and a primary author of What Can Tribes Do? Strategies and Institutions in the Economic Development of American Indian Reservations (with Stephen Cornell), a principal author of Rebuilding Native Nations: Strategies for Governance and Development (ed. M. Jorgensen), and co-editor of Universities and Indian Country (with Dennis Norman). He is vice-chairman of the Board of the White Mountain Apache Tribe’s Fort Apache Heritage Foundation, Inc., serves as a member of the Board of the Sonoran Institute, and was a founding member of the Board of Directors of the Native Governance Center. Prof. Kalt has also served on the Navajo Nation’s President’s Council of Economic Advisors, and is on the advisory board of the Chickasaw Nation’s Community Development Entity. In Canada, he has provided advice and research to the Assembly of First Nations, Honouring Nations Canada, the Department of Indian and Northern Development, the Royal Commission on Aboriginal Peoples, and numerous First Nations.

Prof. Kalt received his B.A. degree in economics from Stanford University, and his Master’s and PhD degrees in economics from UCLA. An expert in antitrust, regulation, and international trade, Prof. Kalt served as a senior economist with Compass Lexecon Consulting and its predecessors for more than twenty-five years before stepping down in 2019. From 1992 through 2018, he served as the lead economic expert for the federal and provincial governments of Canada in the long-running Softwood Lumber Dispute between Canada and the United States.

Prof. Kalt and his wife, Judy, now reside in his hometown of Tucson, Arizona and in Carbon County, Montana.

For nearly a decade The Right Honourable Stephen J. Harper led Canada through the world’s most complex geopolitical, economic and security challenges as the country’s 22nd Prime Minister. He created the modern Conservative Party of Canada, won three successive national elections, and was the longest serving Conservative Prime Minister since Canada’s founding Prime Minister in 1891.

Since leaving office in 2016, Mr. Harper founded and is Chairman and CEO of
Harper & Associates, a global consulting and investment advisory business, and is Chairman of Vision One. He serves as a Director of Colliers International Group Inc. and Recover Inc. He is also the recent author of “Right Here, Right Now: Politics and Leadership in the Age of Disruption”, and a frequent speaker on geopolitical trends, populism, and business.

Mr. Harper serves as Chairman of the International Democrat Union, the Friends of Israel Initiative, and India’s Observer Research Foundation. He has bachelor’s and master’s degrees in economics from the University of Calgary, an honorary doctorate from Tel Aviv University and an honorary degree from the Jerusalem College of Technology. He is a Companion of the Order of Canada and the recipient of numerous international recognitions, including the Order of Liberty, Ukraine’s highest civilian honour.

Mr. Harper resides in Alberta, Canada with his wife Laureen; they have two adult children, Benjamin and Rachel.

Tracy Robinson was appointed President and Chief Executive Officer of CN on February 28, 2022 and is responsible for CN’s strategic direction and leadership.

Prior to joining CN, Tracy was Executive Vice-President of TC Energy, President of Canadian Natural Gas Pipelines and President of Coastal GasLink.

Tracy’s deep experience in the railway industry stems from her 27 years at Canadian Pacific Railway. There, she served in executive roles in the commercial, finance and operating functions, including as General Manager of Transportation Services, Vice President and Treasurer, and Vice President of Marketing and Sales.

Tracy is a seasoned executive with a proven track record in the transportation industry. She is known for her ability to drive innovation and foster collaboration among diverse teams and stakeholders. Her passion for mentoring the next generation of leaders and her advocacy for inclusive leadership have further solidified her reputation as a forward-thinking leader.

She is Chair of the Board of the Business Council of Canada. She is also a member of the Campaign Committee and the Dean’s Advisory Council at the Edward’s School of Business of the University of Saskatchewan.

Tracy holds a Master of Business Administration from the University of Pennsylvania’s Wharton School of Business and a Bachelor of Commerce from the University of Saskatchewan. She received her Institute of Corporate Directors designation in 2015

Ozzie Gromada Meza currently serves as the President and CEO of the Latino Corporate Directors Association (LCDA). In this capacity, he leads a distinguished membership organization comprising accomplished executives at the pinnacle of corporate governance. His mission is to propel diversity within the boardroom, with a firm commitment to amplifying the presence of Hispanic/Latino individuals on corporate boards.

Prior to assuming his present role, he held the position of Vice President of Member and Talent Services at LCDA. During this tenure, he collaborated closely with boards of directors, C-Suite executives, search firms, and influential board advocates. His influence extended to shaping the board talent pipeline for numerous prominent organizations.

As a talent intelligence expert, Ozzie led a diverse career spanning search firms, consulting, and Fortune 1000 corporations. Preceding his tenure at LCDA, he served as a Talent Intelligence Lead at JamesDruryPartners, a premier board advisory services firm. In the earlier stages of his career, he played an instrumental role in establishing the executive recruiting function at Allstate Insurance. Notably, he spearheaded the development of one of the first comprehensive competitive intelligence divisions within talent acquisition.

Ozzie has garnered recognition as a trailblazer in the realms of ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) by being honored as a recipient of the Modern Governance 100 Award by Diligent and has received the Business & Finance Impact Award from the Special Libraries Association. Additionally, he serves as a Board Member of Thirty Percent Coalition, as an Advisory Board Member of the Association of LGBTQ+ Corporate Directors, and Council Member of NACD Center for Inclusive Governance.

Ozzie Gromada Meza holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Information Systems and a Master of Science degree in Library and Information Science, both from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign. He and his husband take pride in their roles as parents to twins and consider Reno, Nevada, home.

Shauna Hegna is an Alutiiq leader dedicated to making a difference for Alaska Native people and communities. Since 2017, she has served as President of Koniag, the Alaska Native regional corporation owned by more than 4,600 Alutiiq Shareholders with roots in the Kodiak Archipelago. 

Before becoming President, Hegna was the Executive Vice President of Shareholder Services at Koniag. She also held key positions including Chief Administrative Officer at the Alaska Native Tribal Health Consortium, Vice President of Shareholder Services at Afognak Native Corporation, and Deputy Director at RurAL CAP.

Hegna holds bachelor’s and master’s degrees from the University of Alaska and a graduate certificate in Alaska Native Executive Leadership from Alaska Pacific University. Hegna is an Anchorage ATHENA Society inductee, a YWCA Women of Achievement awardee, a German Marshall Memorial Fellow, and she was named one of the Native American Top Forty Under 40 and Alaska Top Forty Under 40.

Her service on various Boards demonstrates her commitment to giving back to the community. Hegna currently serves as Chair of ANCSA Regional Association and Housing Alaskans. Additionally, she serves on the Boards of Northrim BanCorp, the University of Alaska Foundation, and others.

She is a Shareholder of Koniag and Afognak Native Corporation, and a tribal citizen of the Native Village of Afognak and Native Village of Port Lions.

Hegna lives in Girdwood, Alaska, with her husband Josh, where they have passed their love of the water and mountains to their two college-age children.

Mr. Woongsoon Lim, Ambassador of the Republic of Korea (ROK), arrived in Ottawa on October 13, 2022. His recent assignments include Deputy Chief of Mission (DCM) and Political Minister in the Korean Embassy in Washington D. C., and Deputy Consul-General in New York.

Mr. Lim joined the ROK Ministry of Foreign Affairs in 1988. He served as Principal Secretary to the Minister of Foreign Affairs and Trade (2002), Director of European Division II (2005), Director of Humanitarian Assistance Division (2006), Deputy Director-General for North Korean Nuclear Affairs Bureau (2011), and Director-General for Human Resources (2014). His previous overseas postings to ROK embassies include Vienna (1995), Nairobi (1998), Washington D.C. (2002 & 2016), Rome (2008), Paris (2012), and Madrid (2019).

He holds a B.A. in Economics from Yonsei University in Seoul, Korea (1988) and has received an Order of Service Merit (Red Stripes) in 2013. He is married to LEE Eun Sun with one son and one daughter.

Andrea Gusty is the President & CEO of The Kuskokwim Corporation, or TKC, an ANCSA village corporation comprised of ten communities in the Middle Kuskokwim River region. Yup’ik and Deg Xitʼan Athabascan, Andrea is a TKC Shareholder, a Calista Shareholder and a Tribal member of Aniak. After college, Andrea returned home to Alaska to work as an investigative news reporter and anchor in Anchorage. Andrea was hired by U.S. Senator Lisa Murkowski to be her Alaska Communications Director in 2011. Wanting to do more for the people of the Kuskokwim region, Andrea began working for The Kuskokwim Corporation in 2014. Andrea previously served as Community Relations, Land and Resource Manager, and Vice President before being appointed as President and CEO of TKC in February 2020. Andrea has been named one of the Top 40 Under 40 by Alaska Business Monthly and is a recipient of the Native American 40 Under 40 Award from The National Center for American Indian Enterprise Development.

Rex Allen Rock Sr. serves as president and chief executive officer of ASRC and on Arctic Slope Regional Corporation’s board of directors, holding the director seat for Point Hope. Point Hope is located on the western coast of the Arctic Slope region and is the longest continually inhabited area in North America.

Rex is a tribal citizen of the Native Village of Point Hope and the Iñupiat Community of the Arctic Slope as well as a shareholder of ASRC and Tikigaq Corporation, the Alaska Native village corporation for Point Hope. His Iñupiaq name is Kakianaaq.

Rex has served on the ASRC Board of Directors for over 30 years and also served as chairman from 2004 to 2010. As president and chief executive officer, Rex oversees all aspects of ASRC’s business operations. In this role, he helps to foster a productive relationship with the board of directors and the corporation’s more than 14,000 Iñupiaq shareholders.

Rex previously served as president and CEO of Tikigaq Corporation and was responsible for the overall strategic guidance and vision for the village corporation. Under his leadership, the corporation started an educational scholarship program for youth to assist current and future generations.

Rex has served his hometown in many capacities, including as whaling captain of the Rock Crew, president of the Point Hope Whaling Association, and head coach for the Tikigaq High School boys’ varsity basketball team for more than 20 years. During that time, his team won four state championships. He was elected Coach of the Year numerous times by his peers for his tireless dedication to Point Hope’s basketball program. Rock was inducted into the Alaska Sports Hall of Fame in August 2015.

He currently serves on the St. Thomas Episcopal Church Council and as president of the Tikigaq School Advisory Council.

Rex graduated from Tikigaq High School and went on to attend college at the University of Alaska Fairbanks. He has been married to his wife Ramona for over 40 years. They have four children and five grandchildren.

Caroline was appointed Chief Legal, Governance and External Affairs Officer in November 2020 with global accountabilities for Legal, Governance, Ethics and Compliance, Internal Audit and Advisory, Communications, Corporate and Government Affairs and Sustainability and Public Policy. Caroline joined BHP in 2015 as Vice President, Legal and was appointed Group General Counsel & Company Secretary in 2016. Prior to BHP, Caroline was a Partner at Herbert Smith Freehills, a firm she was with for 11 years, specializing in cross-border transactions, disputes and regulatory investigations. Earlier in her career, Caroline was a solicitor at the Canadian law firm, Osler Hoskin & Harcourt and clerked for Judges at the Alberta Court of Appeal and Court of Queen’s Bench.

Under her leadership, the IESO oversees the safe and reliable operation of Ontario’s bulk electricity system, ensuring affordable electricity is available when and where people need it.

As part of its mandate to plan and prepare for the future, the IESO works with sector partners to identify energy needs, develop supply options, drive innovation, and harness data and information for decision-making. The IESO also delivers energy efficiency and demand management programs that contribute to the cost-effectiveness and reliability of Ontario’s power system.

Throughout her career, Ms. Gallinger has focused on driving strategic change within complex organizations to deliver shareholder and stakeholder value. Prior to joining the IESO, she served as President and Chief Executive Officer of Elexicon Energy, a large municipally-owned electricity distributor in Ontario, which she led through a sizeable merger integration. She has also held senior roles in the electricity sector that include Chief Strategy and Financial Officer at the Electrical Safety Authority as well as VP, Corporate and Regulatory Affairs and Chief Financial Officer at Oakville Hydro.

Ms. Gallinger sits on several boards, including the Ontario Energy Network where she serves as Vice Chair, and the Nuclear Waste Management Organization. Prior to joining the IESO she also served on the boards of the Ontario Energy Association and the Electricity Distributors Association. She holds a Master of Business Administration from the Schulich School of Business at York University, is a Chartered Professional Accountant and a Certified Public Accountant (Illinois). She has also completed the Chartered Director and Audit Committee Certified program at the DeGroote School of Business, McMaster University.

Terence Hubbard was appointed President of the Impact Assessment Agency (IAAC) on November 28, 2021. In his role, he is responsible for leading all reviews of major projects under the Impact Assessment Act, in cooperation with other Government of Canada regulatory agencies, as well as provinces and territories and Indigenous groups.

Prior to joining IAAC in 2018, Terence was Director General of the Petroleum Resources Branch with Natural Resources Canada. In this role, he had responsibility for Canada’s oil and gas policy, including overseeing the development and implementation of Canada’s pipeline safety and offshore oil and gas regulatory regimes as well as serving as Canada’s representative on the Governing Board of the International Energy Agency.

He is a graduate of the University of Saskatchewan where he obtained both his Bachelor and Master of Arts degrees in economics and now lives in Ottawa.

Terence Hubbard a officiellement été nommé président de l’Agence d’évaluation d’impact du Canada (AEIC) le 15 juillet 2022. À ce titre, il est chargé de diriger tous les examens de grands projets en vertu de la Loi sur l’évaluation d’impact, en collaboration avec d’autres organismes de réglementation du gouvernement du Canada, ainsi qu’avec les provinces et territoires et les groupes autochtones.

Avant de se joindre à l’AEIC en 2018, Terence était directeur général de la Direction des ressources pétrolières de Ressources naturelles Canada. À ce poste, il était responsable de la politique canadienne en matière de pétrole et de gaz naturel et supervisait notamment l’élaboration et la mise en œuvre des régimes de sécurité des pipelines et de réglementation des hydrocarbures extracôtiers et de représentant du Canada au conseil d’administration de l’Agence internationale de l’énergie.

Il est titulaire d’un baccalauréat et d’une maîtrise ès arts en économie de l’Université de la Saskatchewan et il vit à Ottawa.

Dawn Madahbee Leach is a proud member of the Aundeck Omni Kaning First Nation on Manitoulin Island in Ontario where she has served as a member of her community’s elected Council.  Since 1988, she has been General Manager of the Waubetek Business Development Corporation, an Indigenous Financial Institution that provides financing and economic services to Indigenous entrepreneurs and First Nation communities throughout North-East Ontario.  Under her leadership, Waubetek has proudly invested more than $155 million in nearly 4,000 Aboriginal businesses who experience a business success rate of 94%.   Ms. Madahbee Leach also studied at York University and Laurentian University where she earned a degree in Political Science with a minor in Law.  

Dawn shares her knowledge and expertise on various Boards and committees including the National Indigenous Economic Development Board where she currently serves as Chair.  She also serves on the Boards of the Peace Hills Trust Company, NioBay Minerals Inc., TC Energy, the Des Nedhe Group of Companies, and the Indigenous Centre of Excellence for Mineral Development. She participates on the Indigenous Working Groups on Indigenous Procurement, the Indigenous Innovative Housing Initiative, and with Global Affairs providing input into Canada’s free trade agreements.  She championed an initiative on Indigenous economic inclusion led by the international Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development.  She worked alongside National Indigenous Organizations to develop the 2022 National Indigenous Economic Strategy for Canada, the first national strategy of its kind penned exclusively by Indigenous People.

Dawn’s work has been acknowledged by the Canadian Council for Aboriginal Business who honoured her with the 2023 Business Lifetime Achievement Award.  She also received the 2020 INDSPIRE Award in the Business and Commerce Category and was celebrated as one of Canada’s 100 Most Powerful Women by the Women’s Executive Network in 2018.  She received the Meritorious Service Medal from the Governor General in 2018. She has been a speaker at international forums in Australia, Chile, New Zealand, Sweden, Taiwan, Paris, Germany, the US and the UN on Indigenous economic development.

Greg Ebel assumed the role of Enbridge’s President and Chief Executive Officer effective Jan. 1, 2023.

Mr. Ebel served as Chairman, President and CEO of Spectra Energy from 2009 until February 27, 2017. Prior to that time, Mr. Ebel served as Spectra Energy’s Group Executive and Chief Financial Officer beginning in 2007. He served as President of Union Gas Limited from 2005 until 2007, and Vice President, Investor & Shareholder Relations of Duke Energy Corporation from 2002 until 2005. Mr. Ebel joined Duke Energy in 2002 as Managing Director of Mergers and Acquisitions in connection with Duke Energy’s acquisition of Westcoast Energy Inc.

Mr. Ebel holds a BA (Bachelor of Arts, Honours) from York University and is a graduate of the Advanced Management Program at the Harvard Business School. Mr. Ebel has earned the CERT Certificate in Cybersecurity Oversight. This certificate was developed by NACD, Ridge Global, and Carnegie Mellon University’s CERT division.

Mr. Ebel is chair of Mosaic, a director and member of the executive committee of Junior Achievement of Southern Texas, and a former board member with Baker Hughes.

Katherine Koostachin is a seasoned professional with over 15 years of comprehensive experience in Indigenous policy, legal matters, and advocacy, focusing on advancing Crown-Indigenous relationships. She has played a pivotal role in Indigenous policy development within the Prime Minister’s Office and several key federal ministries, including Indigenous Services, Natural Resources, and Environment and Climate Change Canada. 

Katherine’s expertise spans complex legal and regulatory matters, including the Impact Assessment Act, the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples Act (2021), and other legislation supporting Indigenous rights and self-determination. 

During her time with the Prime Minister’s Office, Katherine played a key role in securing historic federal investments for Indigenous housing and infrastructure, directly benefiting Inuit and other Indigenous communities. She also helped establish additional support for Indigenous groups living in urban and rural areas, addressing critical gaps in housing accessibility. Furthermore, she worked through the Government of Canada’s Permanent Bilateral Mechanisms (PBMs) with First Nations, Inuit, and Métis leaders to co-develop policy and advance shared priorities. This included collaborating with Inuit Tapiriit Kanatami (ITK) and the four Inuit regions on unified advocacy efforts, notably contributing to the development of the Inuit Nunangat Policy that outlines an approach for the design and renewal of all federal policies, programs, services, and initiatives that apply in Inuit Nunangat and benefit Inuit. Furthermore, while at Environment and Climate Change Canada, Katherine also worked closely with the Qikiqtani Inuit Association on the Lancaster Sound project, which culminated in the signing of the Inuit Impact and Benefit Agreement (IIBA) for the Tallurutiup Imanga National Marine Conservation Area. 

As a Mushkegowuk Cree from Attawapiskat First Nation, Katherine deeply understands the challenges faced by remote northern communities. Her lived experience allows her to empathize with the advocacy efforts of Inuit and other Indigenous Peoples working to navigate the unique opportunities and barriers of remote regions. Katherine remains committed to fostering collaboration and advancing reconciliation efforts that respect Indigenous rights and knowledge.

Benjamin Cooper-Janvier, a member of Cold Lake First Nations, is a Chartered Professional Accountant and experienced advisor specializing in financial due diligence, valuation, and strategic advisory. Ben is a Manager in MNP’s External Financial Advisory (EFA) and Indigenous Equity Opportunities practices. In his EFA role, Ben leverages his financial expertise to help clients address executive and management-level financial gaps. In the Indigenous Equity Opportunities practice, Ben supports Indigenous clients in evaluating and executing economic opportunities.

Prior to joining MNP, Ben served as an Associate Director at Kalos LLP, where he led numerous mid-market private equity due diligence engagements. He was involved in buy- and sell-side deals totaling over $400 million. He began his career at KPMG in Corporate Audit, working with one of Canada’s largest publicly traded oil and gas companies, including on SOX-compliant audits. His experience also includes clients in the pension, junior oil and gas, and renewable energy sectors.

Ben holds a Bachelor of Commerce (with Distinction), a Master of Professional Accounting, and the CPA designation. He is currently pursuing the Chartered Business Valuator (CBV) designation

Ms. Joseph is an accomplished sustainable development and public affairs professional, currently serving as Chair of Energy for a Secure Future— a nonpartisan initiative of business, labour and Indigenous leaders, as well as industry organizations across various sectors, focused on building a secure energy future for Canada and its international allies. She is also a Director on the Board of the Directors of Tamarack Valley Energy, a conventional oil and gas company and is an Energy Forum Fellow with the Canadian Global Affairs Institute. Previously, Ms. Joseph served as Vice-President, Government Relations and Indigenous Affairs with the Canadian Association of Petroleum Producers (CAPP) and as the founding Director of the Municipalities for Climate Innovation Program with the Federation of Canadian Municipalities. Over her career, she has served in senior roles focused on federal environmental policy, Indigenous and stakeholder relations and environmental program implementation. Ms. Joseph is a professional engineer with the Ordre des ingénieurs du Québec and holds a Bachelor of Engineering from McGill University and a Master of Applied Science – Civil Engineering from the University of Toronto. 

Valerie has been at the forefront of the development and financing of renewable energy projects across Canada. She worked on some of the earliest and most innovative renewable projects, including Erie Shores Wind Farm, Grand Renewables Solar and Henvey Inlet Wind Farm, as well as PPAs in connection with Emera’s proposed Atlantic Link Project. Valerie acts for the spectrum of clients involved in project development and financing, including Indigenous groups, project proponents, lenders, investors, contractors and governmental authorities.

Trusted counsel to Indigenous and non-Indigenous project participants, Valerie often advises on complex infrastructure projects impacting Indigenous interests and parties, where she brings a robust perspective on different parties’ interests and priorities. She is the co-head of Torys’ Indigenous practice and her recent project work related to Indigenous involvement notably includes acting as co-counsel to CDEV in conjunction with the Federal Department of Finance, on the possible economic participation by over 100 Indigenous groups in British Columbia and Alberta in Trans Mountain Corporation, the Wataynikaneyap Transmission Project in northwestern Ontario and working with The Honorable Frank Iacobucci in advising the Government of Canada in its re-initiated consultation process with Indigenous groups on the Trans Mountain Pipeline Expansion Project.

Valerie has held various industry appointments in the power sector, including serving as a board member of the Canadian Wind Energy Association, past Chair of the Ontario Waterpower Association, and past member of the Independent Electricity System Operator Stakeholder Advisory Committee.

Hillary Thatcher leads the CIB’s Indigenous and Northern Infrastructure investments team.   She is part of the CIB’s senior team that provides advice to Indigenous and northern leaders, and structures investments that are consistent with the CIB’s focus on infrastructure in priority sectors – clean power, green infrastructure, transit, trade and transportation and broadband. 

Hillary joined the CIB from her role as the head of Innovation at Indigenous Services Canada. Prior to joining ISC, Hillary spent 15 years with the Ontario Public Service in senior roles across Indigenous Affairs, Energy and Infrastructure and Natural Resources. With significant experience in Indigenous relations, public policy and program delivery, Hillary has a proven track record of building linkages among government, industry and Indigenous interests. Hillary’s Métis heritage is from northern Alberta and has been an active member of the urban Indigenous community of Toronto through her volunteer roles at the Native Canadian Centre of Toronto, Red Sky Performance and the Downie Wenjak Fund. 

Hillary graduated from Concordia University in Montreal and attended the Indigenous Governance graduate studies program at the University of Victoria.  

Jaimie Lickers is senior vice-president of CIBC’s Indigenous Markets team. With 12 years of experience servicing Indigenous clients in the legal market, Jaimie joined CIBC in 2020. She leads CIBC’s Indigenous Trust Services and Indigenous Commercial Banking teams and advises on enterprise-wide Indigenous strategy in retail and business banking. She brings both personal and professional knowledge to CIBC’s mission to provide accessible and innovative banking solutions for Indigenous clients. Jaimie also works closely with the Diversity and Inclusion team at CIBC to ensure positive banking experiences for all clients and is the co-chair of the Bank’s Reconciliation Action Committee. Based in Hamilton, ON, she’s Onondaga and a member of the Six Nations of the Grand River.

Stephen Lidington has led feasibility and transaction work for dozens of infrastructure projects across Canada. He is a seasoned transaction advisor with experience in both the public and private sectors on a wide range of major projects, including many First Nations projects. Stephen leads the Infrastructure Advisory practice at Colliers Project Leaders, a Canadian-owned company specializing in getting projects ready, getting projects built, and getting projects operating on time and on budget.

Chana Martineau is the CEO of the Alberta Indigenous Opportunities Corporation, a provincial Crown Corporation with a mandate to serve as a catalyst for Indigenous prosperity and independence through investment and involvement in Alberta’s natural resources, agriculture, transportation, telecommunications and tourism sectors. Prior to joining AIOC, Chana had an extensive and diverse background in the financial services sector with 30 years of experience across all aspects of banking and investing. Her experience includes strategy and consulting in the key sectors under the AIOC mandate. Chana has been recognized for her efforts fostering Inclusion and Diversity for women in leadership and Indigenous peoples. She has a track record of building high performance teams both inside and outside of the boardroom. Her governance experience encompasses several board positions, including time as the Enterprise Risk Finance & Audit Committee chair of a National Sport Organization and is a current candidate for the ICD.D. Chana is a proud member of Frog Lake First Nation on Treaty 6 Territory. She is a graduate from the University of Alberta with a degree in Economics, and has her ICD.D designation from the Institute of Corporate Directors.

The Honourable Greg Rickford was first elected to the Ontario Legislature as the MPP for Kenora — Rainy River in 2018 and re-elected in 2022 and 2025. Over the past seven years, he has been Minister of Indigenous Affairs and Chairman of the Cabinet Committee for Economic and Resource Policy. Since June 2024, he has also served as Minister of First Nations Economic Reconciliation and since March 2025, has also served as the Minister Responsible for Ring of Fire Economic and Community Partnerships.

Minister Rickford also served Premier Ford as the Minister of the Minister of Northern Development and Chair of the Northern Ontario Heritage fund, Minister of Energy, the Minister of Mines, and the Minister of Natural Resources & Forestry, in addition to his current portfolios.

Minister Rickford’s academic and professional journey has been an interesting one: a lifelong learning plan focussed on the pursuit of excellence in advocacy spanning three careers that include nursing, the practice of law, and politics. 

Minister Rickford has a Diploma in nursing from Mohawk College, a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from the University of Victoria, specializing in community health nursing. The Minister’s nursing career includes working in multiple specialized clinical settings in hospitals throughout North America and close to a decade working in northern isolated Indigenous communities across Canada. 

He has an MBA from Université of Laval as well as Bachelors’ of Common Law & Civil Law from McGill University. His law practice focussed on Indigenous Matters including being a signatory to the Indian Residential School Agreement, Indigenous governance, economic and health opportunities.

From 2008 to 2015 Minister Rickford, served as the federal Member of Parliament for Kenora.  During that time, he served Prime Minister Harper as the Parliamentary Secretary for Aboriginal Affairs & Northern Development, Minister of State for Science & Technology, Minister responsible for the Federal Economic Development Initiative for Northern Ontario, and finally, Canada’s Minister of Natural Resources.

That said, the most important job he has ever had is being a father to his two daughters.

Dave McKay is President and CEO of RBC, Canada’s biggest bank, and one of the largest in the world based on market capitalization. He is reimagining the future of financial services to help RBC’s clients thrive and communities prosper.

An unwavering champion of innovation, big ideas, and creativity, Dave is actively transforming RBC for the future, harnessing the power of transformational technologies to deliver more value to clients through unique partnerships and the best and most personalized experiences possible. In his home market, he is a passionate advocate for Canada’s future prosperity and preparing youth for the future of work. He is also the Chair of RBC’s Diversity Leadership Council.

Dave joined RBC in 1983 as a co-op student in computer programming before moving to the organization’s retail banking arm. He then held progressively senior roles in retail and business banking, group risk management, and corporate banking. He became Group Head of Canadian Banking in 2008. During his tenure leading the division, Dave helped reinvent the bank’s retail operations, introducing new technology that has enabled RBC to adapt and evolve to rapidly-changing consumer demands.

Shortly after being appointed President and CEO in 2014, he led the acquisition of City National Corporation, creating a platform for growth with institutional, corporate and high net worth clients in the U.S.

Dave holds a Bachelor of Mathematics and an honorary Doctor of Mathematics degree from the University of Waterloo. He also holds an MBA and an honorary Doctor of Laws degree from the Richard Ivey School of Business at the University of Western Ontario, and an honorary degree from Toronto Metropolitan University. He is both a member and a Board of Director at the Business Council of Canada, a member of the U.S. Business Council, a Board of Director with the Institute of International Finance (IIF) and the Bank Policy Institute (BPI). Dave also serves on the Catalyst Canada Advisory Board and is the chair of the Business/Higher Education Roundtable, which brings together Canada’s top businesses, universities and colleges to find ways to better link workplaces and classrooms.

Among his many business leadership achievements, Dave is a Member of the Order of Ontario, a recipient of the Ivey Business Leader of the Year Award, and was named Canada’s Outstanding CEO of the Year for 2022.

Bill Lomax is the President and CEO of the First Nations Bank of Canada (FNBC) and a member of the Gitxsan Nation. Bill grew up in Terrace, B.C. and studied in Vancouver before heading south to spend 22 years working on Wall Street and in Private equity in the United States. As a graduate of UBC’s law school and after obtaining his MBA at Columbia University, Mr. Lomax began his career as a lawyer facilitating land claim negotiations for the British Columbia Treaty Commission. He later worked for the Canadian Federal Department of Justice before entering the investment sector in the United States, working for firms such as Merrill Lynch and Goldman Sachs.

Lomax believes the First Nations Bank of Canada will be a catalyst to create economic growth that is inclusive and sustainable in Indigenous Nations and communities. His deep experience in the US will serve him well. He worked with Native American Tribes across the US and was entrusted with over $5B in Indigenous investment and banking assets over the course of his career. 

The First Nations Bank of Canada is a federally chartered bank, with decades of experience serving Indigenous and non-Indigenous peoples throughout Canada. The FNBC has 22 branches or services centres in 6 provinces and three territories and more than $1B in holdings.

Sharleen Gale has served as the chair of the board of directors for the First Nations Major Projects Coalition (FNMPC) since 2017, overseeing a tremendous period of growth for the organization in which she has carried FNMPC messages on the economic inclusion of First Nations to the regional, national, and international stage. As an experienced community leader, Sharleen was elected to the council of Fort Nelson First Nation, serving 15 years with 8 of those years as Chief.

She is the grand-daughter of Fred Burke and Madeline Needlay. Her roots run deep in the lives of her people and she enjoys being on the land with her family exploring the territory and teaching her son the traditional ways on the lands and how to hunt, fish, and gather medicines and berries.  

Sharleen’s experience as a community leader is furthered by her corporate experience in the oil and gas, renewable energy, and forestry sectors. During the 2020 Global Pandemic, Sharleen served the Province of BC as a member of the Premier’s Economic Recovery Task Force. In 2023, she was appointed to serve on the Canada Electricity Advisory Council. In 2024, Sharleen was appointed to serve as the Indigenous member of the International Energy Agency’s Global Commission on the People-Centred Energy Transition.   

Sharleen is a recipient of the King Charles III Coronation Medal awarded to her in recognition for her dedication to public service and leadership in economic development.

Cindy was elected as National Chief of the Assembly of First Nations (AFN) in December 2023. Previously enacting as the Manitoba region First Nations representative to the Executive Committee, Cindy led negotiations for the AFN that resulted in a historic $40 billion settlement in a human rights class action over discrimination in the welfare system. childhood.

During her tenure as regional leader of the AFN, Cindy also:

• Led advocacy for clean water, universal internet connectivity, and closing infrastructure and housing gaps for all First Nations.
• Regularly highlighted emerging priorities for leaders in his region, such as developments regarding the implementation of the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples, policing and emergency services.
• Worked daily and collaboratively with First Nations leadership to protect collective rights – treaties, inherent rights, title and jurisdiction, the right to self-determination and all human rights.

During her career, Cindy has accumulated extensive experience in lobbying the Senate, the House of Commons, Ministers and the Prime Minister’s Office to achieve the mandates given to them by the Chiefs.

This work has included calls to action for language legislation, child and family services legislation that affirms the inherent jurisdiction of First Nations, and legislation to advance implementation of the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples across Canada.

Dan George has been assisting communities, organizations, governments, and companies through negotiation and strategic facilitation for the past thirty years. Dan brings his vast experience, a M.A. in Conflict Analysis and Management, certification as a Professional Facilitator and Director Certification through the Institute of Corporate Directors to each project he manages. In addition to his industry and Crown government work, Dan has an extensive roster of First Nation clients to whom he provides services to in the areas of organizational development, strategic planning and facilitation, governance/ leadership training, negotiations and communications.

A tireless advocate for reconciling the competing values and viewpoints of Aboriginal people, Industry and the Crown, Dan centres his efforts on the need to strengthen these valuable and transformational relationships.

Mr. George resides in Kamloops, BC on Secwépemc Territory. He is a proud member of the Gilseyhu Clan (Big Frog – Thin House) of the Wet’suwet’en people, his family originating from Hagwilget Village, BC. He has been married for 31 years to his wife Teresa, and together they have two daughters, Amanda and Brittany, two granddaughters, Kiana & Alia, and one grandson, Daniel.