March 11-12, 2026   •   Vancouver, BC

Forward Summit | WEST COAST

That's a wrap for 2026!

Forward Summit West Coast may be over, but the conversations, connections, and impact continue.
We’re grateful to every attendee, speaker, and partner who helped make this gathering so meaningful.
Look out for Spring 2027!

Next event:
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Event Overview

overview

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.

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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

Forward Summit West Coast brings together leaders and practitioners committed to advancing Indigenous economic reconciliation and long-term economic prosperity. This year’s Workforce Forward workshops focus on Indigenous Workforce Inclusion, offering practical, impact-driven learning designed to meet professionals where they are in their journey. Each time block features two learning pathways; one supporting those building foundational understanding and another for participants ready to deepen and apply their practice, creating respectful, safe spaces for growth across a broad spectrum of experience. Grounded in real-world insights, these sessions equip attendees with actionable tools and strategies they can bring back to their organizations to drive meaningful, sustainable change.

Agenda

Day 1: March 11

Opening Blessing & Welcome Remarks

Speakers:

Co-Host: Hal Eagletail, Owner, Eaglestar Enterprises Ltd.  
Co-Host: Syex̱wáliya Ann Whonnock, Knowledge Carrier & Elder, Squamish Nation

The Next Era of Indigenous Economic Leadership: Ownership, Opportunity & Nation Building

Speakers:

Celeste Haldane, Chief Commissioner, British Columbia Treaty Commission

Indigenous-Led Growth: Building Shared and Sustainable Prosperity

Speakers:

Grand Chief Jerry Daniels, Elected Leader, Southern Chiefs’ Organization (SCO)

Nation-Led Development: Indigenous Equity Reshaping Canada’s Project Landscape

Sponsored By:

Speakers:

Moderator: Catherine Pennington, Senior Director, Indigenous Advisory Services, Infrastructure, Capital Projects, and Sustainability, KPMG
Mindy Wight, CEO, Nch’ḵay̓ Development Corporation
Jenn Podmore Russell, CDO Real Estate and Development, Nch’ḵay̓ Development Corporation
Xayil Jacob Lewis III, Director, Community Development, Nch’ḵay̓ Development Corporation

Morning Coffee & Networking

Unlocking Capital, Advancing Community: Financing Indigenous-Led Development in British Columbia

Sponsored By:

Speakers:

Moderator: Booker Cornea, Associate Vice President, Market & Shareholder Engagement, FNBC
Tsekonámus Rosemary Stager, Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Líl̓wat Business Group (LBG)

Energizing B.C.’s Economy: Energy Sovereignty, Transmission & Clean Energy Pathways

Sponsored By:

Speakers:

Moderator: Dr. Sue von der Porten, Vice President of Clean Energy Strategy, First Nations Major Projects Coalition
Karen Ogen, CEO First Nations Natural Gas Alliance
Allen Edzerza, Elder, Tahltan Nation
Kwatuuma Cole Sayers
Executive Director, Clean Energy BC
Patrick Tomlinson, Senior Program Manager, Indigenous Economics and Finance, BC Hydro

Networking Lunch

Tourism as Nation-Building: Indigenous Ownership, Culture & Economic Prosperity

Speakers:

Moderator: Chatman Shaw, Corporate Development Manager, Indigenous Tourism BC
Greg Hopf, CEO & Owner, Moccasin Trails
Chyanne Trenholm, General Manager Homalco Wildlife & Cultural Tours

Women Leading the Future: Matriarchal Models of Governance & Economic Strength

Sponsored By:

Speakers:

Moderator: Dana Martin, Vice President, Indigenous Financial Services, Scotiabank
Angela Ferguson, Senior Vice President, National Practice Leader, Indigenous Services Group AON

Chastity DavisAlphonse, Indigenous Relations Advisor & Advocate, Tla’amin and Tsilhqot’in Nations
Lisa Grant, Business Development Manager, yáqʷa Development Corp.

Afternoon Coffee and Networking

Indigenous Procurement in 2026: Barriers and Opportunities

Sponsored By:

Speakers:

Moderator: Tim Laronde, National Director, Indigenous Strategies, Chandos Construction
Wade Griffin, National Director for Indigenous Engagement BGIS
Jonathon Mitchell, Director, Indigenous Relations & Procurement, PHSA
Justin Sundholm, Senior Advisor, Indigenous Entrepreneurship, BDC

Building Prosperity: Infrastructure, Construction, and Indigenous Economic Reconciliation

Sponsored By:

Speakers:

Moderator: Maggie Kontonis, Senior Infrastructure Advisor, Capital Projects – Indigenous Services, MNP
Mark Liedemann, President & CEO, Infrastructure BC
Gene Ouellette, Tribal/Indigenous Client Account Manager, Americas AECOM
Shannon Ralfs, Executive Director, Infrastructure & Capital Projects, Malahat Nation

Indigenous Guardianship and Tech-Driven Environmental Stewardship

Speakers:

Moderator: Jorge Avilés, Senior Advisor, Cross-cultural & Indigenous Relations
Blaine Castle, Manager, Inside Sales Esri Canada
Angela D’Amato van den Hout, Chief Executive Officer, Nan wúújǫ anawúúdle

Opening Night Reception

Sponsored By:

Day 2: March 12

Morning Reflections & Opening Remarks

Speakers:

Co-Host: Hal Eagletail, Owner, Eaglestar Enterprises Ltd.  
Co-Host: Syex̱wáliya Ann Whonnock, Knowledge Carrier & Elder, Squamish Nation
Michelle Precourt, Board Director, CPHR BC & Yukon

The Next Generation: Empowering Indigenous Youth

Sponsored By:

Speakers:

Moderator: Colby Delorme, President, Imagination Group of Companies
Allie Patterson, Law and Social Justice, McMaster University
Kaitlyn Schaeffer, Environmental Systems Engineering, University of Regina
Oceania Kreutzer, Animal Welfare Program, University of British Columbia

The Next Generation: Future-Forward Perspectives on Inclusive Leadership, Economic Empowerment, and Entrepreneurship

Sponsored By:

Speakers:

Moderator: Geena Jackson, Founder & Executive Producer, Bears’ Lair and President, Indigenous Initiatives Inc.
Dwight Ballantyne, Founder, The Ballantyne Project
Edgard Veilleneuve-Cruz, Co-Founder, Turtle Island Connection

Morning Coffee & Networking

Mining the Future: Indigenous Partnerships in Canada’s Critical Minerals Strategy

Speakers:

Moderator: Jeremy Thompson, President, Eagle Spirit Business Development
Erinn Mah, Manager, Indigenous Relations, Teck Resources

Sharon G. Kaur Singh, Co-Head, Indigenous | Environment McMillan LLP.
Byng Giraud, President, Sedgwick Strategies

Level 1: Reframing Workforce Inclusion: Indigenous Rights Beyond DEI Part 1

Speakers:

Ariana Fotinakis, Co-Founder, Decolonize and Rize 
Vanessa Lesperance, Co-Founder, Decolonize and Rize 

Level 2: Indigenous and Industry Partnerships

Sponsored By:

Speakers:

Moderator: Blaine Collett, Senior Advisor, Project Development, FNMPC
Khoi Mai, Indigenous Markets Lead, PWC
Sandra Hodzic, Chief Advisor, Political Affairs Grand Chiefs’ Office

Networking Lunch

Designing the 2030 Indigenous Economic Reconciliation Action Map

Sponsored By:

Speakers:

Moderator: Stewart Muir, President & CEO, Resource Works
Jeremy Thompson, President, Eagle Spirit Business Development
Malcolm Macpherson, Partner, Macpherson Law
Mary French, Contractor, Indigenous Relations

Level 1: Reframing Recruitment and Building Retention into Your Recruitment:

Sponsored By:

Speakers:

Linda Epp, Indigenous Talent Sourcing Specialist, ICBC
Nancy Neese, Manager, Talent Development Programs, ICBC

Level 2: Reframing Workforce Inclusion: Indigenous Rights Beyond DEI Part II

Speakers:

Jorge Avilés, Senior Advisor, Cross-cultural & Indigenous Relations

Networking and Coffee Break

Level 1: Indigenous Workplace Readiness: Cultural Governance and Employee Safety

Speakers:

Moderator: Michelle Precourt, Board Director, CPHR BC & Yukon
Sheryl Rivers, Indigenous Workforce Development Manager, Woodfibre LNG
Buffy Mills, Indigenous Employee Benefits Consultant, Acera Indigenous Benefits

Level 2: Leading the Way: Advancing Indigenous Workforce Inclusion

Speakers:

Moderator: Brad Coutu, Technology & People Leader, Best Buy Canada
Wade Griffin
, National Director for Indigenous Engagement BGIS
Bailey Waukey, Founder, Frayed Feathers

Level 1: Building the Indigenous Workforce of Tomorrow

Sponsored By:

Speakers:

Moderator: Jorge Avilés, Senior Advisor, Cross-cultural & Indigenous Relations
Tanya Rexin, National Director, Indigenous Relations, Aramark Canada  
Suzanne Pederson, Founder, Facilitator & Coach, Hidden Potential Coaching & Learning

Level 2: Beyond the Document: Living Your Reconciliation Action Plan & Policies

Speakers:

Moderator: Mel Fowle, Senior Manager, Indigenous Reconciliation, PWC Canada
Marissa Nobauer, Director of Reconciliation, Community Engagement and External Relations, TELUS

speakers

WEST COAST 2026 Speakers

Watch this space for updates regarding the speakers at this year’s Forward Summit. The Majority Indigenous Led Leadership Council hand selects industry experts and inspiring thought leaders to represent the topics that matter most right now.

Hal Eagletail  

Owner
Eaglestar Enterprises Ltd. 

Syex̱wáliya Ann Whonnock

Knowledge Carrier & Elder Squamish Nation

Wade Griffin

National Director for Indigenous Engagement
BGIS

Grand Chief Jerry Daniels

Elected Leader
Southern Chiefs’ Organization (SCO)

Allen Edzerza

Elder
Tahltan Nation

Jeremy Thompson

President
Eagle Spirit Business Development

Sharon G. Kaur Singh

Co-Head, Indigenous | Environment
McMillan LLP.

Karen Ogen

CEO
First Nations Natural Gas Alliance

Shannon Ralfs

Director of Infrastructure and Capital Projects
Malahat Nation

Suzanne Pederson

Founder, Facilitator & Coach
Hidden Potential Coaching & Learning

Angela Ferguson

Senior Vice President, National Practice Leader, Indigenous Services Group
AON

Geena Jackson

Founder & Executive Producer
Bears’ Lair
President
Indigenous Initiatives Inc.

Jorge Avilés

Senior Advisor, Cross-cultural & Indigenous Relations
AiM Land Services

Maggie Kontonis

Manager, Capital Projects – Indigenous Services
MNP

Kwatuuma Cole Sayers

Executive Director,
Clean Energy BC

Chastity Davis-Alphonse

Indigenous Relations Advisor & Advocate
Tla’amin and Tsilhqot’in Nations

Blaine Castle

Manager, Inside Sales
Esri Canada

Erinn Mah

Manager, Indigenous Relations
Teck Resources

Chyanne Trenholm

General Manager
Homalco Wildlife & Cultural Tours

Gene Ouellette

Tribal/Indigenous Client Account Manager, Americas
AECOM 

Mark Liedemann

President and CEO
Infrastructure BC

Vanessa Lesperance

Co-Founder
Decolonize and Rize

Ariana Fotinakis

Co-Founder
Decolonize and Rize

Booker Cornea

Associate Vice President – Market and Shareholder Engagement
First Nations Bank of Canada

Tanya Rexin

Indigenous Relations Director
Aramark Canada

Dr. Sue von der Porten

Vice President of Clean Energy Strategy
First Nations Major Projects Coalition

Tsekonámus Rosemary Stager

Chief Executive Officer
Líl̓wat Business Group

dana martin

Dana Martin

Vice President of Indigenous Financial Services
Scotiabank

Dwight Ballantyne

Founder
The Ballantyne Project

Tim Laronde

National Director, Indigenous Strategies
Chandos Construction

Justin Sundholm

Senior Advisor, Indigenous Entrepreneurship
BDC

Greg Hopf

CEO & Owner
Moccasin Trails

Mel Fowle

Senior Indigenous Reconciliation Manager
PWC

Malcolm Macpherson

Partner
Macpherson Law

Stewart Muir

Founder
Resource Works

Mindy Wight

CEO
Nch’ḵay̓ Development Corporation

Jenn Podmore Russell

Chief Development Officer
Nch’ḵaỷ Development Corporation

Bailey Waukey

Founder
Frayed Feathers

Angela D’Amato van den Hout

Chief Executive Officer
Nan wúújǫ anawúúdle Restoration Society

Celeste Haldane

Chief Commissioner
British Columbia Treaty Commission

Patrick Tomlinson

Senior Program Manager, Indigenous Economics and Finance
BC Hydro

Sandra Hodzic

Founder and Managing Partner
Sorella Strategies Ltd

Linda Epp

Indigenous Talent Sourcing Specialist
ICBC

Marissa Nobauer

Director of Reconciliation, Community Engagement and External Relations
TELUS

Khoi Mai

Indigenous Markets Lead
PWC

Chatman Shaw

Corporate Development Manager
Indigenous Tourism BC

Nancy Neese

Manager of Talent Development Programs
ICBC

Sheryl Rivers

Indigenous Workforce Development Manager
Woodfibre LNG

Brad Coutu

Technology Manager- Retail Infrastructure & Field Services
Best Buy Canada

Blaine Collett

Senior Advisor, Project Development
FNMPC

Edgard Villanueva-Cruz

Co-Founder
Turtle Island Connection

Kaitlyn Schaeffer

Environmental Systems Engineering
University of Regina

Allie Patterson

Law and Social Justice
McMaster University

Oceania Kreutzer

Animal Welfare Program
University of British Columbia

Buffy Mills

Indigenous Employee Benefits Consultant
Acera Indigenous Benefits

Lisa Grant

Business Development Manager
yáqʷa Development Corporation

Guy Lonechild

CEO
First Nations Power Authority

Chief Billy Morin

Managing Director
Axxcelus Capital Advisory

Amber Big Plume

Manager, Business Development and Projects
First Nation Power Development Inc

Jorge Avilés

Manager, Cross-cultural & Indigenous Relations
ATCO Gas

Tim Laronde

National Director, Indigenous Strategies
Chandos Construction

Jeff Provost

Leader, Indigenous Relations
MCW Consultants Ltd.

Tanya Rexin

Indigenous Relations Manager
ATCO Frontec

Diane Gray

President
Prairies Economic Development Canada (PrairiesCan)

Don Ross

CEO
George Gordon Developments Ltd.

Paul Robitaille

Senior Indigenous Relations Advisor
Sustainable Forestry Initiative

Amanda Ens

Head, Indigenous Talent Strategy
BMO

Aaron Lambie

CEO/President
Nisto

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:

partners

Meet Our Partners

At the heart of our mission to drive forward economic reconciliation in Canada lies the support and dedication of our partners. More than allies in business, they are pioneers in championing a future where Indigenous-led dialogue shapes the economic landscape of our nation. 

 

Meet the Visionaries & Leaders

Meet the Allies & the Supporters

Meet the Teachers

Association Partners

Media Partners

Stay at the Pan Pacific!

Located on Vancouver’s waterfront next to the Canada Place cruise ship terminal. this luxury hotel offers a wellness spa, restaurant, and lounge located on site. Waterfront Station skytrain is only 1148 ft away.

Book with Group Rate

  1. Visit Hyatt Regency website by clicking below
  2. Select Property: Hyatt Regency Vancouver
  3. Select Dates (discount available Oct 21-24)
  4. Under Special Rate, select “Corporate or Group Code” and enter: 68568

Become 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.

Come as a Group & Save

Come as a team, leave empowered with a shared vision!

Download our Corporate Kit today to learn more about exclusive discounts for teams of four or more!

Join as an Artisan

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

Aircraft Plane Boarding Passengers In Airport Terminal. Aircraft Tow Tractor And Fright Forklift

Travel

For all participants of Forward Summit, we are pleased to announce that we’ve partnered with national airlines to ensure competitive rates are provided for domestic and international travel to and from Forward Summit.

Air Canada: For North America’ 5% applies on standard fares, 10% on flex fares & higher. For International Travel’ 10% on standard fares & higher. Minimum 10 passenger requirement

Promotional Code: CJT9TG41

Westjet: 5% off Econo* and 10% off EconoFlex and Premium fares for travel within Canada and 2% off Econo*, 5% off EconoFlex and 10% off Premium base fares for guests travelling Trans-border. No discount will apply to Ultra Basic or Business class bookings.

Promotional Code: 7B7S6YT

Travel Agent Code: YBX09

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.

See what forward summit is all about!

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Blessing & Welcome Address

Opening Blessing & Welcome Address

Day 1    8:30AM – 8:45AM

Honouring the Land:

The conference will commence with the opening blessings from local Indigenous leaders in recognition of their land.

climate governance

Chief of the Chippewas of Rama First Nation

President, Bridging Concepts

Mainstage Panel

Nation-Led Development: Indigenous Equity Reshaping Canada’s Project Landscape

Day 1   | 9:30AM – 10:30AM

Session Description:

Key Themes: Equity Participation, Governance, Consent-Based Decision-Making, Indigenous-Led Project Origination

Takeaways:

·       Insights into emerging partnership models and financing structures.

·       Lessons from on-the-ground case studies illustrating challenges, innovations, and outcomes.

·       Strategies for industry, governments, and Nations to build durable, mutually beneficial development pathways.

·       How major projects can directly impact the well-being and opportunities of community members.

Sponsor:

Joel Gamache

Senior Manager, National Indigenous Youth in STEM Programs
Actua

Aiyana Roberts

Ontario Tech University

Bee Dokis

Nipissing University

Cheyenne Sego

University of Ottawa

Ciara Robison

University of Ottawa

Fireside Chat

The Investor Perspective: Why Indigenous Equity De-Risks Major Projects

Day 1   | 11:00AM – 11:30AM

Session Description:

Institutional investors and venture capital firms discuss risk, certainty, and the future of capital markets.

Sponsor:

Joel Gamache

Senior Manager, National Indigenous Youth in STEM Programs
Actua

Aiyana Roberts

Ontario Tech University

Bee Dokis

Nipissing University

Cheyenne Sego

University of Ottawa

Ciara Robison

University of Ottawa

Mainstage Panel

Energy Sovereignty: The Future of LNG, Transmission & Clean Energy in BC

Day 1   | 11:30AM – 12:30PM

Session Description:

Key Themes: Project Co-Ownership, Electrification, Emissions Reduction, Capacity Pathways

Session Takeaways:

  • Insights into Indigenous-led approaches to energy sovereignty and system planning.
  • Lessons from case studies demonstrating practical challenges, innovations, and partnership models.

Strategies for governments, industry, and Nations to collaboratively accelerate clean, reliable energy development in BC.

Sponsor:

Joel Gamache

Senior Manager, National Indigenous Youth in STEM Programs
Actua

Aiyana Roberts

Ontario Tech University

Bee Dokis

Nipissing University

Cheyenne Sego

University of Ottawa

Ciara Robison

University of Ottawa

Fireside Chat

Tourism as Nation-Building: Indigenous Ownership, Culture & Economic Prosperity

Day 1   | 1:30PM – 2:15PM

Session Description:

This session explores how Indigenous-led tourism strengthens sovereignty by creating economic opportunity rooted in cultural revitalization, community ownership, and land stewardship. Learn about how communities decide which tourism opportunities to pursue and how they determine what aspects of their culture and land can be shared in a tourism context.

Sponsor:

Joel Gamache

Senior Manager, National Indigenous Youth in STEM Programs
Actua

Aiyana Roberts

Ontario Tech University

Bee Dokis

Nipissing University

Cheyenne Sego

University of Ottawa

Ciara Robison

University of Ottawa

Mainstage Panel

Women Leading the Future: Matriarchal Models of Governance & Economic Strength

Day 1   | 2:15PM – 3:15PM

Session Description:

This session highlights the leadership of Indigenous women in Nation-building, governance, major projects, and community-driven economic development, and explores how matriarchal models shape stronger futures.

Sponsor:

Joel Gamache

Senior Manager, National Indigenous Youth in STEM Programs
Actua

Aiyana Roberts

Ontario Tech University

Bee Dokis

Nipissing University

Cheyenne Sego

University of Ottawa

Ciara Robison

University of Ottawa

Roundtable/Breakout Session

Indigenous Procurement in 2026: Barriers and Opportunities

Day 1   | 3:45PM – 5:00PM

Session Description:

This panel explores the current state of Indigenous procurement and its role in advancing Indigenous economic prosperity and reconciliation. Panelists discuss persistent barriers, emerging opportunities, and practical actions governments, industry, and Indigenous businesses can take in 2026 to strengthen participation, partnerships, and long-term economic outcomes.

Sponsor:

Joel Gamache

Senior Manager, National Indigenous Youth in STEM Programs
Actua

Aiyana Roberts

Ontario Tech University

Bee Dokis

Nipissing University

Cheyenne Sego

University of Ottawa

Ciara Robison

University of Ottawa

Roundtable/Breakout Session

Building Prosperity: Infrastructure, Construction, and Indigenous Economic Reconciliation

Day 1   | 3:45PM – 5:00PM 

Session Description:

Infrastructure and construction projects are critical drivers of Indigenous economic empowerment and reconciliation. This session explores how Indigenous Nations, governments, and industry partners can work together to advance infrastructure development that supports self-determination, economic growth, and community wellbeing.

Through practical examples and lived experience, panelists examine the key considerations involved in Indigenous-led and Indigenous-partnered infrastructure projects, including capacity building, workforce development, land rights, procurement strategies, and access to funding and financing.

Sponsor:

Joel Gamache

Senior Manager, National Indigenous Youth in STEM Programs
Actua

Aiyana Roberts

Ontario Tech University

Bee Dokis

Nipissing University

Cheyenne Sego

University of Ottawa

Ciara Robison

University of Ottawa

Roundtable/Breakout Session

Indigenous Guardianship and Tech-Driven Environmental Stewardship

Day 1   | 3:45PM – 5:00PM 

Session Description:

This session explores how Indigenous guardians are strengthening environmental oversight in major projects, from impact assessments to on-the-ground monitoring. Speakers highlight how digital tools and data-driven approaches are enhancing construction, pipeline, and project management, while building long-term community capacity.

Sponsor:

Joel Gamache

Senior Manager, National Indigenous Youth in STEM Programs
Actua

Aiyana Roberts

Ontario Tech University

Bee Dokis

Nipissing University

Cheyenne Sego

University of Ottawa

Ciara Robison

University of Ottawa

Fireside Chat

The Next Generation: Empowering Indigenous Youth

Day 1   | 9:00AM – 9:30AM

Session Description:

This session explores how Indigenous guardians are strengthening environmental oversight in major projects, from impact assessments to on-the-ground monitoring. Speakers highlight how digital tools and data-driven approaches are enhancing construction, pipeline, and project management, while building long-term community capacity.

Sponsor:

Joel Gamache

Senior Manager, National Indigenous Youth in STEM Programs
Actua

Aiyana Roberts

Ontario Tech University

Bee Dokis

Nipissing University

Cheyenne Sego

University of Ottawa

Ciara Robison

University of Ottawa

Mainstage Panel

The Next Generation: Youth Voices on Economic Self-Determination, Entrepreneurship and Workforce Inclusion

Day 1   | 9:30AM- 10:30AM

Session Description:

This panel brings forward the perspectives of Indigenous youth who are shaping the next seven generations of economic development. Speakers explore how to meaningfully engage youth through modern communication channels, highlight real pathways into entrepreneurship and industry roles, and offer candid insights on what is working, and what still needs to change for true inclusion and leadership development.

Sponsor:

Joel Gamache

Senior Manager, National Indigenous Youth in STEM Programs
Actua

Aiyana Roberts

Ontario Tech University

Bee Dokis

Nipissing University

Cheyenne Sego

University of Ottawa

Ciara Robison

University of Ottawa

Mainstage Panel

Mining the Future: Indigenous Partnerships in Canada’s Critical Minerals Strategy:

Day 2   | 11:00AM – 12:00PM

Session Description:

Key Themes: Permitting, Environmental Stewardship, Shared Prosperity, Workforce & Training

Session Takeaways:

  • Practical insights into partnership structures supporting critical minerals development.
  • Lessons learned from case studies on collaboration, conflict resolution, and project oversight.
  • Strategies for governments, industry, and Nations to advance a balanced, sustainable critical minerals future.

Sponsor:

Joel Gamache

Senior Manager, National Indigenous Youth in STEM Programs
Actua

Aiyana Roberts

Ontario Tech University

Bee Dokis

Nipissing University

Cheyenne Sego

University of Ottawa

Ciara Robison

University of Ottawa

Breakout Sessions/Workshops

Level 1: Reframing Workforce Inclusion: Indigenous Rights Beyond DEI Part 1

11:00AM – 12:00PM

Session Description:

This session explores why traditional DEI approaches fall short and how organizations can adopt Indigenous-centered frameworks that drive real change.

Moderator: Krista Maydew

Vice President, External Affairs
IAMGOLD Corporation

Trina Maher

President
Bridging Concepts

Jade Psutka

Senior Manager, Indigenous Enablement & Recruitment
KPMG Canada

Michelle Francis-Denny

Manager of Indigenous Relations and Community Engagement (East)
Bird Construction

Nathan Martin

Director Indigenous Relations
Rogers

Breakout Sessions/Workshops

Level 2: Indigenous and Industry Partnerships

11:00AM – 12:00PM

Session Description:

A practical look at building strong, trust-based partnerships that support long-term Indigenous workforce inclusion and shared economic outcomes.

Moderator: Krista Maydew

Vice President, External Affairs
IAMGOLD Corporation

Trina Maher

President
Bridging Concepts

Jade Psutka

Senior Manager, Indigenous Enablement & Recruitment
KPMG Canada

Michelle Francis-Denny

Manager of Indigenous Relations and Community Engagement (East)
Bird Construction

Nathan Martin

Director Indigenous Relations
Rogers

Mainstage Panel

Designing the 2030 Indigenous Economic Reconciliation Action Map

Day 2   | 1:00PM – 2:00PM

Session Description:

This session outlines key pathways for advancing Indigenous economic reconciliation by 2030, including partnerships with BC industry, women’s economic empowerment, skills development, community-led innovation, and long-term wealth creation.

Sponsor:

Joel Gamache

Senior Manager, National Indigenous Youth in STEM Programs
Actua

Aiyana Roberts

Ontario Tech University

Bee Dokis

Nipissing University

Cheyenne Sego

University of Ottawa

Ciara Robison

University of Ottawa

Breakout Sessions/Workshops

Level 1: Reframing Recruitment and Building Retention into Your Recruitment:

1:00PM – 2:00PM

Session Description:

Remove barriers and empower Indigenous candidates to see themselves in your organization.
Part II: Strengthen your workforce while creating meaningful opportunities for Indigenous talent to grow and succeed within your organization 

Moderator: Krista Maydew

Vice President, External Affairs
IAMGOLD Corporation

Trina Maher

President
Bridging Concepts

Jade Psutka

Senior Manager, Indigenous Enablement & Recruitment
KPMG Canada

Michelle Francis-Denny

Manager of Indigenous Relations and Community Engagement (East)
Bird Construction

Nathan Martin

Director Indigenous Relations
Rogers

Breakout Sessions/Workshops

Level 2: Reframing Workforce Inclusion: Indigenous Rights Beyond DEI Part II

1:00PM – 2:00PM

Session Description:

Advance the conversation by applying new models of inclusion, accountability, and co-design to reshape workplace culture. 

Moderator: Krista Maydew

Vice President, External Affairs
IAMGOLD Corporation

Trina Maher

President
Bridging Concepts

Jade Psutka

Senior Manager, Indigenous Enablement & Recruitment
KPMG Canada

Michelle Francis-Denny

Manager of Indigenous Relations and Community Engagement (East)
Bird Construction

Nathan Martin

Director Indigenous Relations
Rogers

Breakout Sessions/Workshops

Level 1: Indigenous Workplace Readiness: Cultural Governance and Employee Safety

2:30PM – 3:30PM

Session Description:

Integrating Indigenous values in HR, labour standards, mental health supports, and workplace culture.

Moderator: Krista Maydew

Vice President, External Affairs
IAMGOLD Corporation

Trina Maher

President
Bridging Concepts

Jade Psutka

Senior Manager, Indigenous Enablement & Recruitment
KPMG Canada

Michelle Francis-Denny

Manager of Indigenous Relations and Community Engagement (East)
Bird Construction

Nathan Martin

Director Indigenous Relations
Rogers

Breakout Sessions/Workshops

Level 2: Leading the Way: Advancing Indigenous Workforce Inclusion

2:30PM – 3:30PM

Session Description:

This session explores how leaders can drive meaningful Indigenous workforce inclusion. Participants learn practical leadership strategies that advance Indigenous Economic Reconciliation while strengthening organizational performance and community prosperity.

Moderator: Krista Maydew

Vice President, External Affairs
IAMGOLD Corporation

Trina Maher

President
Bridging Concepts

Jade Psutka

Senior Manager, Indigenous Enablement & Recruitment
KPMG Canada

Michelle Francis-Denny

Manager of Indigenous Relations and Community Engagement (East)
Bird Construction

Nathan Martin

Director Indigenous Relations
Rogers

Breakout Sessions/Workshops

Level 1: Building the Indigenous Workforce of Tomorrow

3:30PM – 4:30PM

Session Description:

Examine training pathways, partnerships, and labour-market strategies that support long-terms Indigenous workforce development and future-ready talent.

Moderator: Krista Maydew

Vice President, External Affairs
IAMGOLD Corporation

Trina Maher

President
Bridging Concepts

Jade Psutka

Senior Manager, Indigenous Enablement & Recruitment
KPMG Canada

Michelle Francis-Denny

Manager of Indigenous Relations and Community Engagement (East)
Bird Construction

Nathan Martin

Director Indigenous Relations
Rogers

Breakout Sessions/Workshops

Level 2: Beyond the Document: Living Your Reconciliation Action Plan & Policies

3:30PM – 4:30PM

Session Description:

Work through real implementation strategies using your (anonymous) Reconciliation Action Plan, translating commitments into daily practice.

Moderator: Krista Maydew

Vice President, External Affairs
IAMGOLD Corporation

Trina Maher

President
Bridging Concepts

Jade Psutka

Senior Manager, Indigenous Enablement & Recruitment
KPMG Canada

Michelle Francis-Denny

Manager of Indigenous Relations and Community Engagement (East)
Bird Construction

Nathan Martin

Director Indigenous Relations
Rogers