May 26, 2022

All activities occurred at the Fairmont Pacific Rim, while all proceedings were live-streamed to virtual attendees via Wordplay’s Vidflex platform, provided by digital sponsor TELUS. Our thanks to enabling patron sponsor GCT Global Container Terminals.

Would you like to see the below agenda in condensed form?

Here it is, IPSS 2022 Agenda - At a Glance.

INTRODUCTION

Opening Ceremonies

May 26, 2022 | 8:30 am to 8:55 am

The conference opened with a land acknowledgement that recognizes the xʷməθkʷəy̓əm (Musqueam), Sḵwx̱wú7mesh (Squamish), and Sel̓íl̓witulh (Tsleil-Waututh) Nations. Christie Lee Charles from the Musqueam Nation provided a traditional welcome.

Event Chair Chief Ian Campbell and Moderator Chastity Davis-Alphonse shared introductory remarks.

Attendees also heard from Cheryl Yaremko, CFO of GCT Global Container Terminals, the event’s patron sponsor.

PANEL

Equity Participation and Access to Capital: Building Blocks of Economic Reconciliation

May 26, 2022 | 8:55 am to 9:55 am

Jesse McCormick (FNMPC) moderated the session with panellists Chief Justin Napoleon (Saulteau First Nation), Chief Corrina Leween (Cheslatta Carrier Nation), and Tiffany Murray (Coastal GasLink).

Sponsored by Coastal GasLink

BREAK

Morning Networking: Day 1

May 26, 2022 | 10:00 am to 10:30 am

Attendees were invited to connect, check out expo tables, and enjoy a mid-morning snack. Sav Dhaliwal shared opening remarks.

Sponsored by Invest Vancouver

PANEL

Addressing Cumulative Effects: Insights from Indigenous Efforts in the Salish Sea

May 26, 2022 | 10:30 am to 11:10 am

Reviewing the progress made by the Salish Sea Indigenous Guardians Association since its founding, the panel featured President Sləqsit, Steven Stark, Treasurer & Secretary Spaləl̕and, Tumia Knott, and Vice-President Xwopokton, Chief Harley Chappell, in a conversation with Executive Director Marian Ngo.

Sponsored by GCT Global Container Terminals

DISCUSSION

FortisBC Fireside Chat

May 26, 2022 | 11:10 am to 11:40 am

In a conversation hosted by Squamish, Haida, and Cree actor Simon Baker, FortisBC CEO Roger Dall’Antonia chated with Squamish Nation hereditary leader Chief Ian Campbell about the Squamish Nation's landmark independent impact assessment process.

Sponsored by FortisBC

DISCUSSION

xʷtatəl̕ləm: Place of Learning

May 26, 2022 | 11:40 am to 12:05 pm

Nolan Charles (xʷməθkʷəy̓əm/Musqueam) Indian Band) and Stephen Bruyneel (Fraser River Discovery Centre) discussed their ongoing partnership, which seeks to support reconciliation and the implementation of the UN Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples through the development of xʷtatəl̕ləm, a Place of Learning About the Indigenous Heritage and Teachings of the Fraser River.

Sponsored by GCT Global Container Terminals

BREAK

Lunch: Day 1

May 26, 2022 | 12:05 pm to 1:00 pm

A Canadian-themed hot buffet lunch was served, featuring a variety of options for all guests, such as Pacific salmon, beef short rib, and locally-made pasta entrees.

KEYNOTE

Chief Terry Paul: Pathways to Shared Prosperity

May 26, 2022 | 1:00 pm to 1:45 pm

Chief Terry Paul, the long-time elected leader of the Cape Breton-based Membertou First Nation, delivered keynote remarks on the theme of “Pathways to Shared Prosperity.” He touched on the historic lobster fisheries ownership deal negotiated by the Mi’kmaq nations in 2020.

Na̲nwak̲olas Council President Dallas Smith introduced Chief Paul and moderated the discussion and audience Q&A.

BREAK

Afternoon Networking: Day 1

May 26, 2022 | 1:45 pm to 2:10 pm

Attendees were invited to connect, check out expo tables, and enjoy a mid-afternoon break including a planned book signing event during the networking session.

Sponsored by Canruss Medical & Safety

DISCUSSION

In Conversation with Ian Anderson and Karen Restoule

May 26, 2022 | 2:10 pm to 2:50 pm

Ian Anderson spent the past decade developing industry-to-First Nations relationships for a major nation-building project, the Trans Mountain expansion. Before his recent retirement, Ian Anderson served as the Chief Executive Officer of the Trans Mountain Corporation.

Karen Restoule is Chief Executive Officer for Shared Value Solutions (SVS), an environmental and community development consulting firm working with Indigenous communities to achieve their goals of jurisdiction, prosperity, and self-determination.

SHOWCASE

Success Showcase: Day 1

May 26, 2022 | 2:50 pm to 4:15 pm

A series of three duets took place, which Barry Penner of the Vancouver International Arbitration Centre introduced:

• A deep dive into Indigenous heritage and culture with historian Wendy Wickwire, author of At the Bridge: James Teit and an Anthropology of Belonging.

• A discussion between Nalaine Morin (Tahltan Central Government Lands Director), Justin Himmelright (Skeena Resources) and Cory Waters, the Lead Negotiator for the Province of British Columbia on their collaborative work towards the first consent-based decision-making agreement ever to be negotiated under Section 7 of the Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples Act (DRIPA). (Sponsored by Skeena Resources).

• A conversation with Indigenous energy commentators Chris Sankey and Melissa Mbarki on Indigenous leadership in an era of energy transformation, with parting comments from Cody Ciona. (Sponsored by the Modern Miracle Network).

PRESENTATION

The AIOC: Amber Boudreau

May 26, 2022 | 4:15 pm to 4:30 pm

Amber Boudreau, Vice President, reflected on the mandate, initiatives and accomplishments of the Alberta Indigenous Opportunities Corporation.

SOCIAL

Reception

May 26, 2022 | 4:30 pm to 6:00 pm

Attendees adjourned to the Emerald Ballroom, where drinks and hors d’oeuvres were enjoyed, along with good conversation and engaging performances from contemporary Indigenous artists. Custom marine-themed cocktails and mocktails were offered to attendees.

Shyama Priya and DJ Kookum performed.

Sponsored by Seaspan

SOCIAL

Banquet

May 26, 2022 | 6:00 pm to 8:30 pm

The IPSS 2022 banquet dinner took place in the Star Sapphire Ballroom, featuring entertainment and a plated four-course dinner.

The Hon. Jody Wilson-Raybould participated in a Fireside Chat with Stewart Muir, followed by an audience Q&A.

Attendees enjoyed the performances of Lady Sinncere, Manik 1derful, DANi LiON, and Joey Stylez.

While the formal event ended at 8:30 pm, attendees were invited to stay until 9:00 pm. A cash bar followed wine and non-alcoholic drink options at dinner.

Sponsored by Woodfibre LNG, LNG Canada, and Pacific Canbriam Energy

May 27, 2022

All activities occurred at the Fairmont Pacific Rim, and all proceedings were live-streamed to virtual attendees via Wordplay’s Vidflex platform.

PRE-PROGRAM

Breakfast: Day 2

May 27, 2022 | 7:15 am to 8:15 am

Registration opened at 6:45 am, with ticketed breakfast served in the foyer of the Star Sapphire Ballroom from 7:15 am to 8:15 am.

INTRODUCTION

Opening: Day 2

May 26, 2022 | 8:30 am to 8:55 am

Moderator Chastity Davis-Alphonse, BC AFN Regional Chief Terry Teegee, and BC Minister Bruce Ralston shared introductory remarks. David Stevenson (Moose Hide Campaign) also shared some remarks.

PANEL

New Horizons: BC First Nations Advancing Equity Participation in Land Development

May 27, 2022 | 8:55 am to 9:55 am

In a panel moderated by Sheryl Rivers “Siamtnaat & Milnitdi” of Rivers Consulting Solutions, panelists David Negrin (MST Development), Councillor Dennis Thomas “Whonoak” (Tsleil-Waututh Nation), and Johnna Sparrow (Aquilini Development) dove into the MST Partnership model, transformative new approaches to Indigenous-led land development, and joint ventures in urban land development.

IPSS Event Lead Margareta Dovgal moderated a short segment at the end with Indigenous youth: Aleen Sparrow, William George Thomas, and Cascade Campbell.

Sponsored by Beedie

BREAK

Morning Networking: Day 2

May 27, 2022 | 10:00 am to 10:30 am

Attendees were invited to connect, check out expo tables, and enjoy a mid-morning snack.

Christy Smith and Michael McPhie were available for a meet & greet and signing of their book Weaving Two Worlds.

SHOWCASE

Success Showcase: Day 2

May 27, 2022 | 10:30 am to 11:55 am

A series of segments took place, including:

• A mini-masterclass, “After the Deal Is Linked”, by Weaving Two Worlds: Economic Reconciliation Between Indigenous Peoples and the Resource Sector co-authors Christy Smith and Michael McPhie, sharing their insights into successful implementation of major deals and agreements. (Sponsored by JDS Group of Companies)

• A conversation between Bill Lomax (Goldman Sachs) and John Stackhouse (RBC) on pathways to Indigenizing Corporate Canada, including through opportunities for youth and emerging leaders in finance and banking. (Sponsored by RBC)

• An open mic with Stewart Muir and Chief Ian Campbell, aimed at providing delegates an opportunity to share practical expertise on economic reconciliation.

BREAK

Lunch: Day 2

May 27, 2022 | 11:55 am to 12:45 pm

A BBQ-themed hot buffet lunch was served, featuring a variety of options for all guests, such as corn on the cob, macaroni and cheese, beef brisket, and BBQ chicken.

Duncan Wlodarczak shared opening remarks.

Sponsored by Onni Group

PANEL

Connecting Nations: Partnering to Meet the Infrastructure and Telecommunications Needs of All Communities

May 27, 2022 | 12:45 pm to 1:45 pm

Margareta Dovgal moderated a panel with Ruby Littlechild (SNC Lavalin), Joe Bevan (Humanity Financial Management), Shazia Zeb-Sobani (Telus), and James Delorme (Indigeknow.com) on the opportunity to build infrastructure for Indigenous communities that will advance socioeconomic well-being and prosperity.

Sponsored by TELUS

DISCUSSION

In Conversation with Don Wright and Aaron Bruce (Kelts' tkinem)

May 27, 2022 | 1:50 pm to 2:20 pm

Don Wright presented “A Proposal on Resource Revenue Sharing: A Trial Balloon,” followed by a discussion with lawyer and Squamish Nation member Aaron Bruce (Kelts' tkinem).

Don’s career has spanned the academic, government and private sectors. From July 2017 to November 2020, Don was the Deputy Minister to the Premier, Cabinet Secretary and Head of the Public Service of British Columbia.

Aaron is member of the Squamish Nation and is passionate about working with First Nations to balance economic development opportunities with the protection of Aboriginal rights and title interests and environmental conservation. He specializes in the negotiation of impact-benefit agreements, accommodation agreements with the Crown, and other interim agreements concerning land and natural resources.

DISCUSSION

OZZ Clean Energy Fireside Chat

May 27, 2022 | 2:20 pm to 2:50 pm

OZZ Clean Energy CEO Steven Muzzo spoke with Chief Gordon Planes “Hya-Quatcha” (T’Sou-ke Nation) on energy transition, Indigenous climate leadership and joint ventures in renewable energy towards decarbonization.

Sponsored by OZZ Clean Energy

BREAK

Afternoon Networking: Day 2

May 27, 2022 | 2:50 pm to 3:20 pm

Attendees were invited to connect, check out expo tables, and enjoy a mid-afternoon break, following a brief statement from Tim Shaw of NorthRiver Midstream.

Sponsored by NorthRiver Midstream

DISCUSSION

In Conversation with Regional Chief Kluane Adamek and Chief Joe Alphonse

May 27, 2022 | 3:20 pm to 4:00 pm

Yukon Assembly of First Nations Regional Chief Kluane Adamek (Aagé) and Tsilhqot’in National Government chair Chief Joe Alphonse discussed sustainable growth and shared priorities between BC and Yukon.

RC Adamek is a proud northerner and citizen of Kluane First Nation, and she acknowledges the Matriarchs who have welcomed her into the Dakl’aweidi (Killerwhale) Clan. Kluane is an Indigenous woman with mixed ancestry in Canada. Having lived in both northern and southern parts of the country, her lived experiences give her the ability to analyze the world around her from several different perspectives.

As the youngest serving Yukon Regional Chief, and the youngest ever female Regional Chief, she continues to press for change in the ways that women, young people and the next generation are included in decision-making forums, and she is committed to advancing solutions while approaching leadership from a place of values.

Nits’ilʔin (Chief) Joe Alphonse has been the Tribal Chairman of the Tŝilhqot’in National Government (TNG) since 2010 and elected Chief of the Tl’etinqox-t’in Government since 2009. He remains the longest elected Chief in the history of Tl’etinqox-t’in. From 2000 to 2009 Chief Alphonse acted as the Director of Government and Services at the TNG.

Chief Alphonse played an instrumental role in the Tŝilhqot’in Nation vs. British Columbia Aboriginal Title case. As a fluent speaker of Tŝilhqot’in, Chief Alphonse is a fifth generation Tŝilhqot’in Chief and the direct decedent of Chief Anaham, the Grand Chief of the Tŝilhqot’in Nation during the Chilcotin War of 1864.

DISCUSSION

In Conversation with Chief Judy Desjarlais and Sharon G.K. Singh

May 27, 2022 | 4:00 pm to 4:25 pm

Chief Judy Desjarlais of the Blueberry River First Nations, located in Treaty 8 Territory, Northeast BC, is Dunne’za/Nehiyaw (Beaver/Cree) raised by her Grandparents May & Bernard Apsassin.

Her recent election win, in January of 2022, saw her enter a governance landscape framed by the BC Provincial Court ruling on the Treaty Rights of her Nation. Remarks by Chief Desjarlais on the path forward for her community were followed by a discussion with Sharon G.K. Singh.

Sharon is a Partner with and co-head of Aboriginal law at Bennett Jones LLP. She advises on regulatory, governance, environmental, water and Aboriginal law to infrastructure, mining, energy, and construction sectors. She guides organizations through impact/environmental assessments, agreements and partnerships with Indigenous communities, ESG related disclosures, opportunities and risks, regulatory and environmental audits and undertakes complex due diligence.

CONCLUSION

Closing Ceremonies

May 27, 2022 | 4:25 pm to 4:45 pm

Event Chair Chief Ian Campbell, Event Founder Stewart Muir, and moderator Chastity Davis-Alphonse offered concluding thoughts, followed by a performance by Vancouver-based performance group, Git Hayetsk, People of the Copper Shield.