By Jay Cumming
It feels like only yesterday I was on a red-eye flight to Toronto for Forward Summit | EAST, and now, just a few weeks later, we’re gearing up for Forward Summit | West Coast! Time flies when the momentum of change is in full swing.
Next Tuesday, the Summit returns to the West Coast, set to take place at the Hyatt Regency in downtown Vancouver. This two-day gathering will bring together industry leaders and changemakers to explore the future of economic reconciliation, with a focus on building meaningful relationships and driving innovation across sectors.
As we look ahead to an impactful event, here’s a sneak peek at some of the most anticipated roundtable discussions happening next week:
Building a Better Future: Voices of Indigenous YouthIn partnership with Actua
The future is bright for Indigenous youth, who are stepping into leadership and economic roles that will define the next generation. This roundtable will explore how companies and institutions can foster inclusivity and create opportunities for Indigenous youth in the workforce. Moderated by Colby Delorme, President of Imagination Group of Companies, the discussion will focus on how empowering Indigenous youth is critical to building a more equitable, diverse, and sustainable future.
Moderator: Colby Delorme – President, Imagination Group of Companies
Panelists:
· Adam Williams-Fakhari – Student, Faculty of Arts, Psychology and First Nations Indigenous Studies, UBC
· Makenzie McCallum – Student, Masters of Rehabilitation Sciences, UBC
· Rhaya Clyne – Student, Bachelor of Arts in Psychology, Brock University
· Sophia Morton – Student, Mining Engineering, UBC
Culture, Community and Kinship: Advancing Reconciliation Through Tourism
Indigenous tourism is a powerful tool for advancing economic reconciliation in Indigenous communities, offering a way to celebrate cultural heritage while creating sustainable economic opportunities. This session will explore how tourism can support Indigenous communities by promoting traditions, natural resources, and unique experiences to a broader audience. The panelists will share insights on how Indigenous tourism is driving economic growth and fostering reconciliation across Canada.
Moderator: Alison McKay – Vice President of Destination Management
Panelists:
· Paula Amos – Chief Marketing & Development Officer, Indigenous Tourism BC
· Inez Cook – Owner, Salmon n’ Bannock Bistro
· Deanna Wampler – Manager, Social Media, Digital Content + Strategy, Indigenous Tourism BC (ITBC)
· Alissa Assu – Founder & Owner, West Coast Wildflowers, Bear Essential Oils, RavenSong
Amplifying the Voices of Others: Indigenous Women as Trailblazers and Changemakers in a Quest for Progress
Indigenous women have long been at the forefront of community-building and economic progress, offering invaluable perspectives shaped by resilience, wisdom, and cultural knowledge. This roundtable brings together trailblazing Indigenous women leaders to discuss their contributions to various industries and sectors. The panel will explore how their leadership is shaping the future, inspiring change, and driving progress in both Indigenous communities and the broader economy.
Moderator: Vanessa Lesperance – Co-Founder, Decolonize and Rize
Panelists:
· Geena Jackson – Executive Producer, Creator, Core Judge, Bear’s Lair
· Shannon Pestun – CEO, Pestun Consulting
· Chief Councilor Crystal Smith – Haisla Nation
· Teara Fraser – Founder, elibird aero and Iskwew Air
Building a Better Future: Indigenous Construction & Real Estate
Indigenous-led construction and real estate projects in British Columbia are driving a new era of prosperity, sustainability, and cultural preservation. This session will explore how these initiatives are transforming communities by fostering economic empowerment, sustainable development, and honoring Indigenous knowledge and traditions. The panelists will share their expertise on how collaboration and innovation are essential in creating a future that respects BC’s past while embracing growth and progress.
Moderator: Tim Laronde – National Director, Indigenous Strategies, Chandos Construction
Panelists:
· Brent Boisvert – Vice President, Business Relations, JEN-COL
· Taylor Baker – Executive Councillor, Tsawwassen First Nation
· Jennifer M. Williams – Commercial, Real Estate and Development Lawyer, MLT Aikins
· Richard Thomsen – Project Manager, Musqueam Capital Corp
Allyship and Antiracism Training
This roundtable explores the importance of allyship and antiracism training rooted in Indigenous ways of thinking, offering valuable insights into fostering respect, collaboration, and understanding between Indigenous communities and broader society. Attendees will learn how such training can provide a deeper appreciation for Indigenous perspectives, cultures, and the unique challenges these communities face. The panel will highlight the commitment required to dismantle systemic racism, while promoting allyship in both personal and professional spheres.
Moderator: Jorge Avilés – Senior Advisor, Cross-cultural & Indigenous Relations, AiM Land Services
Panelists:
· Erin Davis – Award-Winning Diversity & Inclusion Expert, Inspirational Speaker, Organizational Transformation, Erin Davis Co.
· Joyce Leppington – Consultant, Len Pierre Consulting
· Laurie Dokis – RN, Citizen, Independent Nurse Consultant, Dokis First Nation
Stem and the Future of Work
As STEM industries shape the future of work, integrating Indigenous perspectives is both an ethical imperative and a driver of innovation and sustainability. This roundtable will explore how Indigenous representation in tech can inspire future generations, the importance of tailored tech training programs, and the ethical considerations around emerging technologies like AI. Panelists will share insights on building pathways for Indigenous youth in tech, emphasizing the role of mentorship, education, and leadership.
Moderator: Jeff Ward – Founder & CEO, Animikii
Panelists:
· Ryan St. Germain – Founder, Indigenous Tech Circle
· Tirzah Swampy – Senior Manager, Digital Skills Development & Training, First Nations Technology Council
· Mike Wuetherick – Emmy Award-winning Producer and Tech Director
· Brandon Ringham – Senior Consultant, Creative Fire
And so much more!
As we prepare to gather in Vancouver for Forward Summit | West Coast, the energy and excitement around these important discussions are palpable. With a diverse range of thought-provoking roundtables that tackle everything from allyship and antiracism training to the future of STEM and Indigenous tourism, this event promises to offer valuable insights, connections, and opportunities for collaboration.
Join us at Forward Summit | West Coast on October 22nd and 23rd so we can collectively work towards a more inclusive and equitable future, fostering economic reconciliation and sustainable growth across industries.
If you haven’t secured your spot yet, there’s still time to join us and be part of the conversation that’s shaping the future of economic reconciliation in Canada.
Head over to forwardsummit.ca/registration-2024 to register, and get ready to be inspired by the incredible leaders and changemakers who will be taking the stage next week!