Dennis Thomas – Whonoak is a member of səlilwətaɬ (Tsleil-Waututh Nation) in Deep Cove, North Vancouver. He also has ancestral ties to Skwxwú7mesh (Squamish Nation), Welsh ancestry and close familial ties to xʷməθkʷəy̓əm (Musqueam Nation).   

Dennis Thomas-Whonoak, an elected Councillor for the Tsleil-Waututh Nation and a prominent business leader, assumed the role of Executive Director of Indigenous Business Initiatives and Engagement at UBC Sauder School of Business in 2023. With over 15 years of experience in community service for his Nation and a deep connection to his culture, Dennis plays a pivotal role in advancing reconciliation efforts, increasing Indigenous students and strengthening UBC Sauder’s ties with Indigenous communities. His expertise extends to Indigenizing various business initiatives, ranging from residential developments to sports facilities, garnered during his tenure as Senior Manager, Business Development, and TWN Cultural Liaison for MST Development Corp. 

Dennis has an MBA from SFU and is an active community member, Dennis has served on various Boards of Directors, including the Vancouver Symphony Orchestra, Museum of Vancouver and City of Vancouver UNDRIP Task Force. 

Dennis prides himself on bringing people together and is committed to leaving a legacy that strengthens Indigenous peoples and, in turn, strengthens our entire society. Dennis has won several awards for his work including the 2022 Enduring Award from Capilano University Alumni Awards of Excellence, 2021 Business in Vancouver’s Top 40 Under 40, 2021 Award for Planning Excellence in the category of Planning for Reconciliation by Canadian Institute of Planners for the Heather Lands project.