May 14 & 15, 2025 • Calgary, AB
Forward Summit | WEST
Forward Summit West, the premier event dedicated to advancing Indigenous economic prosperity, returns on May 14–15, 2025, in Calgary, Alberta. Join us in person for two dynamic days filled with impactful keynotes, engaging panel discussions, real-world case studies, and networking opportunities designed to foster meaningful relationships and actionable change.
- 00Days
- 00Hours
- 00Minutes
- 00Seconds
New In 2025
Discover fresh perspectives and groundbreaking conversations designed to inspire action and foster meaningful change. Here’s what’s new for Forward Summit West 2025:
Increased Focus on Indigenous Entrepreneurship
Explore how Indigenous businesses are driving economic growth and innovation across Canada.
Cultural Integrity & Indigenous Financial Prosperity
Engage in thought-provoking discussions about preserving cultural values while fostering financial success.
Innovation in Energy Infrastructure
Discover cutting-edge developments in energy and infrastructure, highlighting Indigenous leadership in sustainable solutions.
Holistic Reconciliation: What Does It Look Like?
Dive deep into the evolving meaning of reconciliation beyond policy—what it truly looks like in practice.
Indigenous Rights & Corporate Responsibility
Examine the role of corporations in upholding Indigenous rights and fostering ethical, long-term partnerships.
Living Stories: Indigenous Voices In Motion
Experience four dynamic TEDx-style sessions—30-minute talks featuring powerful stories from Indigenous leaders designed to inspire and ignite change.
watch
Experience The Summit
Forward Summit goes beyond a typical conference—it’s an immersive experience that energizes and inspires through powerful speakers, thought-provoking conversations, and impactful networking.
Catch the highlights from Forward Summit | WEST and see why it’s creating such a buzz.
Agenda
Day 1: May 14
Speakers:
Hal Eagletail, Co-Host
Livia Manywounds, Co-Host
Alvin Manitopyes, Elder
Elder Doreen Bergum Métis Elder/Knowledge Keeper Métis Nation of Alberta Region 3
Chief Roy Whitney, Chief, Tsuut’ina Nation
Grand Chief Trevor Mercredi, Grand Chief, Treaty 8 First Nations of Alberta
Speakers:
JP Gladu, Principal, Mokwateh
- 9:00AM - 10:15AM
- Panel Discussion
Rising Voices: Empowering Indigenous Youth - Leadership, Entrepreneurship, and Mental Health
Sponsored By:
Speakers:
Colby Delorme, President, Imagination Group of Companies
Celine Dixon, Computer Science Major, Mount Royal University
Darian Milton, Heavy Equipment Technician Student, Northern Alberta Institute of Technology (NAIT)
Ryleigh Deuel, Computer Science Major, Mount Royal University
Jacob Smith, Social Work Major, Mount Royal University
- 10:15AM - 10:45AM
Morning Coffee & Networking
Sponsor:
Sponsored By:
Speakers:
Moderator: Sarah Jacknife, Principal and Founder, Jacknife Consulting
Buffy Handel, Visionary Director, “Strata”
Darian Kovacs, Founding Partner, Jelly Digital Marketing and PR
Ruhee Ismail-Teja, Vice President, Policy and External Affairs, Calgary Chamber of Commerce
Wade Kerr, Manager, Indigenous Entrepreneurship, BDC
- 10:45AM - 12:00PM
- Roundtable
Community Capacity Building Part A - Igniting Potential: Strengthening Communities Through Capacity Building
Speakers:
Moderator: Kirsten Ryder, Training & Development Specialist, Stoney Nakoda Nation
Dean Montgomery, Chief Executive Officer, Indigenous Initiatives Inc.
Michelle Goodkey, Chief Sustainability Officer & External Relations, Project Reconciliation
Garett Strawberry, Economic Development Manager, O’Chiese First Nation
Jeremy Thompson, President, Eagle Spirit Business Development
- 10:45AM - 12:00PM
- Roundtable
Cultural Journeys: Exploring Indigenous Tourism, Healing, and Sustainability
Sponsored By:
Speakers:
Keith Henry, President and CEO, Indigenous Tourism Association of Canada (ITAC)
Juanita Marois, CEO, Métis Crossing
Mario Auger, Manager, Indigenous Engagement, Alberta Indigenous Opportunities Corporation
Cliffton Cross, Council Member, Frog Lake First Nations
Chelsey Quirk, CEO, Indigenous Tourism Alberta
- 10:45AM - 12:00PM
- Roundtable
Empowering the Future: Indigenous Leadership and Innovation in Energy Transformation
Speakers:
Moderator: Katie Kachur, Vice President Government Relations, West at Canadian Propane Association
Cristi Adams, Director of Minerals, Land & Environment
Indian Oil and Gas Canada, Indigenous Services Canada
Amber Big Plume, Manager, Business Development and Projects, First Nation Power Development Inc
Kennedy Bear Robe, Partner, Gowling WLG
- 12:15PM – 1:15PM
Networking Lunch
Speakers:
Moderator: Christy Morgan, Reconciliation Strategy Manager, TELUS
Deborah Green, Justice & Human Rights Advocate, & Forward Summit Leadership Council
Holly Fortier, President/ Facilitator, Nisto Consulting Inc.
Bobbie Racette, Founder & CEO, Virtual Gurus
Andrea Sandmaier, President, Otipemisiwak Métis Government
- 2:30PM - 3:00PM
Afternoon Coffee and Networking
- 3:00PM - 3:45PM
- Living Stories - 30 Minute Short Talks
Living Stories: Indigenous Voices in Motion
Speakers:
Room 1: Art, Culture, and Economic Reconciliation – Sophia Lebessis, Owner, Art Dealer, Transformation Fine Art
Room 2: Reshaping the Film & Television Industry through Storytelling – Barry Morrissette, Technologist, Entertainment, Communication, Business Development, RADIANCE Digital
Room 3: Indigenous Leadership: Breaking Barriers to Political Power – Jennifer Laewetz, CEO & Partner, Paskwâw Harbour
Room 4: Métis Momentum: Fueling the Future of Economic Collaboration –
Lawrence Gervais, Director, Indigenous Relations, Phoenix Energy Services
- 3:45PM - 5:00PM
- Roundtable
Indigenous Procurement and the Evolution of Indigenous Partnerships
Sponsored By:
Speakers:
Moderator: Michelle Toner, Executive Director, NAABA
Wade Griffin, National Director for Indigenous Engagement, BGIS
Philip Ducharme, Vice President, Entrepreneurship & Procurement Canadian Council for Indigenous Business (CCIB)
Mike Dundas, Manager, Sustainable Procurement, Farm Credit Canada
Bryce Starlight, Vice President, Business Development, Taza Development Corp.
- 3:45PM - 5:00PM
- Roundtable
Community Capacity Building Part B - Building Together: Maximizing Community Engagement and Wealth Creation in Construction
Speakers:
Moderator: Tim Laronde, National Director, Indigenous Strategies, Chandos Construction
Stephani Carter, President, Canada Region, Stok
Aleksi Makila, Operations Manager, Civil, Chandos Construction
Brent Boisvert, Vice President, Business Relations, JEN-COL
JR One Spot, Senior Operations Officer, Tsuut’ina Nation
- 3:45PM - 5:00PM
- Roundtable
Creating Capital: Economic Reconciliation, Equity Ownership in Major Projects, and Loan Guarantee Programs
Sponsored By:
Speakers:
Moderator: John Desjarlais, Executive Director, Indigenous Resource Network
Cliffton Cross, Council Member, Frog Lake First Nations
Patrick Dinsdale, Director, Indigenous Business Development, Johnston Group Inc.
Barbara Engelbart McKenzie, Chief Executive Officer, Métis Settlements Development Corporation
Justin Bourque, Founder and President, Âsokan Generational Developments
- 3:45PM - 5:00PM
- Roundtable
Shifting Tides: Empowering Indigenous Partnerships and Equity Ownership in the Evolving Oil & Gas Landscape
Sponsored By:
Speakers:
Moderator: JP Gladu, Principal, Mokwateh
Billie Fortier, Partner, MLT Aikins
Mark Little, Founder & CEO, Jotson Inc.
Emily Black, Director Strategic Projects & Partnerships, Enbridge
Crystal Young, President & CEO, McKay Métis Group
- 5:15PM
- Opening Night Reception
Opening Night Reception
Day 2: May 15
Speakers:
Ioana Giurca, CEO, CPHR Alberta
Minister Rick Wilson, Minister of Indigenous Relations, Legislative Assembly for Maskwacîs-Wetaskiwin
Speakers:
Dr. Patricia Makokis, Indigenous Awareness Educator
- 9:00AM - 10:15AM
- Panel Discussion
Leading With Lateral Kindness: Building Inclusive, Safe Workplaces For All
Speakers:
Moderator: Mary Beth Green, Vice President, Human Resources, Fort McKay Group
Kahsennénhawe Sky-Deer CEO & President, Sky-Deer Consulting
Lorelei Higgins Parker, Reigning Mrs. Unity World Elite
Connor Scheu, Journeys Network Co-Chair, Suncor Energy
Hope Regimbald, Lead, Indigenous and Stakeholder Relations, LNG Canada
- 10:15AM - 10:45AM
Morning Coffee & Networking
Speakers:
Moderator: Geena Jackson, Executive Producer, Creator, Core Judge, Bear’s Lair
Doug Dokis, Director, National InSTEM Program, Actua
Elder Art Cunningham, President and Knowledge Keeper, Roundtable Consultants
Dr. Patricia Makokis, Indigenous Awareness Educator
Speakers:
Jorge Avilés, Senior Advisor, Cross-cultural & Indigenous Relations, AiM Land Services
- 10:45AM - 12:00PM
- Roundtable
Indigenous Rights is Human Rights: Advocating for Indigenous Justice
Speakers:
Moderator: Shannon Pestun, CEO, Pestun Consulting/ Sr Advisor, The Diversity Institute
Deborah Green, Justice & Human Rights Advocate, & Forward Summit Leadership Council
Ralph Cardinal, Board of Directors / Consultant, MMIP
Hope Regimbald, Lead, Indigenous and Stakeholder Relations, LNG Canada
- 10:45AM - 12:00PM
- Roundtable
Digital Pathways: Building Indigenous Youth Futures Through Technology
Speakers:
Moderator:Jennifer Kohlhammer, Blackfoot Tech Council
Pablo Listingart, Executive Director, comIT
Tirzah Swampy, Senior Manager, Digital Skills Development & Training, First Nations Technology Council
Cory White, Board Member, Blackfoot Tech Council
Wade Hawkins, Research Chair for the Centre for Innovation and Research in Unmanned Systems (CIRUS), SAIT
Ethan Boyer, Manager, National InSTEM Program, Actua
- 12:00PM – 1:15PM
Networking Lunch
- 1:15PM - 2:30PM
- Panel Discussion
Advancing Indigenous Prosperity: Holistic Economic Reconciliation
Sponsored By:
Speakers:
Moderator: Jennifer Russell, Director, Indigenous Engagement, SAIT
Ted Bauer, Director, Indigenous Relations, Alberta Counsel
Ryan Robb, CEO, Chiniki First Nation
Geena Jackson, Executive Producer, Creator, Core Judge, Bear’s Lair
Brad Parry, President and CEO, Calgary Economic Development
- 2:30PM - 3:00PM
Afternoon Coffee and Networking
- 3:00PM - 4:15PM
- Roundtable
Rooted in Tradition: Indigenous Food Sovereignty and Agriculture
Sponsored By:
Speakers:
Moderator: Tanis One Spot, Executive Director Lands Department, Tsuut’ina Nation
Nicole Davies, Executive Director, Sovereign Seeds
Justice Acoose, Communication Specialist, NCIAF
Daryl Kootenay, Co-Director, Howl
- 3:00PM - 4:15PM
- Roundtable
Emergency Preparedness Training: from Natural Disasters to Drug Addiction to Pandemics
Speakers:
Moderator: Preston Seier, Director of Indigenous/Community/Government Relations, H2Safety Services Inc.
Brent Sterling, CEO, Waswanay Consulting
Valerie O’Connal, Senior Manager, Community Engagement, Rogers Communications Inc.
Rennie Houle, Program Manager, Whitefish Lake First Nation
Crystal Potts, Director of Emergency Management (DEM), Alexis Nakota Sioux Nation Public Works
- 3:00PM - 4:15PM
- Roundtable
Indigenous and Industry Partnerships: Creating Economic and Employment Opportunities
Sponsored By:
Speakers:
Moderator: Jorge Avilés, Senior Advisor, Cross-cultural & Indigenous Relations, AiM Land Services
Christine Channer, Founder & Principal, Channer Consulting & Training
Tracy Buffalo, Indigenous Relations Co-Ordinator, KDM Constructors L.P.
Rebecca Kragnes, Director, Indigenous Relations and Community Engagement, Bird Construction
Curtis Piche, Indigenous Relations Lead, Canada West Land
Speakers:
Moderator: Gillian Hynes, Director, People and Community, Enhance Energy
Hannah Grewal, Director, Roundtable Consulting
Jeff Provost, Leader, Indigenous Relations, MCW Consultants Ltd.
Mark Shilliday, Indigenous Recruitment Advisor, Enbridge
Heather Wolf Ear, Indigenous Engagement Program Manager, Soogadin
agenda
Returning in 2025:
We’re bringing back the powerful sessions and voices that made Forward Summit a must-attend event:
Returning Emcees: Hal Eagletail & Livia Manywounds
Back by popular demand, Hal Eagletail and Livia Manywounds will once again guide us through the summit with their dynamic energy, cultural wisdom, and engaging storytelling that connects audiences with purpose and passion.
Youth Panel
Hear from the next generation of Indigenous leaders as they share their visions, challenges, and ideas for shaping the future.
Indigenous Women’s Inspiration Series
Our inspiring panel of women leaders returns to spotlight the strength, resilience, and leadership of Indigenous women across sectors.
Diverse Sessions Across Key Industries
Explore rich, industry-focused discussions spanning construction, oil & gas, energy, arts, and entertainment, offering unique insights and real-world strategies.
Professional Development Hours for CPHR Members
Earn CPHR professional development hours while gaining valuable knowledge and skills that advance both personal and professional growth.
Join us for these returning favorites and experience the connections, insights, and inspiration that make Forward Summit West 2025 an event like no other.
WEST
Who Attends Forward Summit West 2025?
Who Attends
Forward Summit West 2025 brings together a dynamic community of Indigenous leaders, industry executives, entrepreneurs, policymakers, community advocates, economic developers,
corporate decision-makers, and changemakers from across Canada. Attendees include professionals from diverse sectors such as energy, finance, technology, natural resources, education, and government—all committed to advancing Indigenous economic reconciliation and leadership.
At Forward Summit West, you’ll learn how to foster meaningful partnerships, drive sustainable growth, and create inclusive strategies that support both Indigenous communities and the broader economy.
From strengthening Indigenous-community relationships to enhancing workforce development, from innovative business strategies to transformative leadership practices, the agenda is specifically designed to help attendees:
– Build lasting connections with key stakeholders and thought leaders
– Enhance economic opportunities through collaboration and innovation
– Champion reconciliation through actionable strategies and real-world solutions
– Inspire change within organizations, industries, and communities
Attendees leave Forward Summit empowered with practical insights, actionable strategies, inspiring stories, and authentic connections that shape the future of Indigenous partnerships and economic growth.
Register for Forward Summit West 2025 today and be part of the movement driving meaningful change for tomorrow
Why You Need To Be At Forward Summit May 14 – 15, 2025
Why Attend
Where Indigenous Leadership Meets Economic Opportunity
This May at Forward Summit in Calgary, you’ll walk away with new perspectives, transformative insights, and actionable strategies to advance Indigenous economic reconciliation and workforce development. We’ve gathered some of the most influential leaders, changemakers, and innovators to share their expertise and inspire meaningful dialogue.
Each summit features:
– Keynote presentations from thought leaders
– Interactive breakout sessions and workshops
– Unrivaled networking experiences
Whether you’re an industry leader, entrepreneur, policy maker, community advocate, or a professional committed to economic growth and reconciliation, Forward Summit West is the event you can’t afford to miss.
Top 10 Reasons to Attend Forward Summit West 2025:
1. GAIN
– Discover the latest insights in Indigenous economic development, leadership, and partnership strategies—all in one impactful event.
2. EVOLVE
– Stay ahead of the curve with emerging trends in workforce innovation, reconciliation practices, and sustainable growth.
3. LEARN
– Hear directly from trailblazing leaders, community advocates, industry experts, and policy influencers sharing real-world solutions.
4. SHARE
– Exchange ideas with peers and thought leaders, exploring what’s working, what’s evolving, and what’s next in Indigenous economic advancement.
5. ADAPT
– Engage with content designed by experts, focusing on real challenges and actionable solutions that matter to your organization.
6. EXPAND
– Broaden your horizons through exposure to new partnerships, innovative ideas, and groundbreaking initiatives.
7. GROW
– Gain insight into the future of Indigenous entrepreneurship, workforce trends, and how to create lasting impact within your community or business.
8. ABSORB
– Immerse yourself in an environment filled with inspiration, knowledge, and opportunities to create meaningful change.
9. TREK
– Beyond the sessions, experience local culture, entertainment, and the vibrant community connections that make Calgary unique.
10. UNWIND
– Our agenda includes time to connect authentically—whether through networking receptions, cultural experiences, or relaxed meet-and-greets with fellow attendees.
Be Part of the Movement
Join us at Forward Summit West 2025 in Calgary, AB, to connect, collaborate, and contribute to the future of Indigenous economic reconciliation and leadership. Register today and secure your place at the forefront of change!
speakers
Our Previous Visionary Speakers
Geena Jackson
Tanya Rexin
Grand Chief Arthur Noskey
Former Chief Billy Morin
post show
Forward Summit | WEST 2025
Download the Post-Show Report for Forward Summit WEST 2025
Get access to insights from Forward Summit | WEST 2025:
- Explore the Highlights: Discover the standout moments and top achievements from the event.
- Access the Survey Results: Gain insights from attendee feedback to see what resonated most.
- Audience Insights: Uncover more information on who attends by downloading our comprehensive report.
council
Leadership Council
Our content is established with the guidance of over twenty experts, community leaders, and passionate individuals recognized by the public.
Featured Members:
Mary French
Alita Murowchuk
Deborah Green
Tyler Mitchell
Early Bird Pricing Now Available!
Why wait when you can seize the opportunity to save? Our Early Bird Discount is your golden ticket to an incredible conference experience for less.
With your spot secured, you’ll have early updates about speakers, sessions, and other can’t-miss announcements.
Come as a Team and Save!
Forward Summit brings together 1000+ participants and countless opportunities to make connections and gain knowledge. Multiply your value received from the event by bringing you team, and receive exclusive discounts while you’re at it.
Connect with our team to learn more about these exclusive discounts for teams, of four or more, and save hundreds on your tickets!
Stay at Blackfoot Hotel
When travelling to Central or Southeast Calgary, Hotel Blackfoot is a full-service vibrant hotel located just minutes from downtown and central to many Calgary attractions. Hotel Blackfoot welcomes business and leisure travellers to rest, rejuvenate, and enjoy visiting Calgary, Alberta.
Guests can call the hotel directly at 403-252-2253 or 1-800-661-1151 and quote the Booking ID 28867 to book rooms.
Looking to stay on-site at the Grey Eagle?
The Grey Eagle Resort & Casino Event Centre is located in South-West Calgary on the beautiful Tsuut’ina Nation and serves as a doorstep to the Canadian Rocky Mountains. This beautiful, modern 4 Star Resort Hotel offers first-class services and amenities.
Get a reduced rate by using our link below:
Join The Artisan Fair
Showcase your handmade and artisanal works at Forward Summit to connect with a vibrant community dedicated to cultural exchange
Apply to join the Artisan Fair
Join Forward Summit as a Partner!
We have three events happening across Canada this year. Learn more about the high level Indigenous and non-indigenous industry and community leaders that your brand will get exposed to.
Popular spot go fast! Find out what opportunities are remaining by having our team reach out to you to connect.
networking
Get a Jump Start on Networking
See who’s attending and prebook your meetings using the app!
This platform is available to registered participants.
