2024 Agenda.

Our thanks to GCT Global Container Terminals, returning for a fifth time as our Patron Sponsor.

All stage proceedings are occurring at the Vancouver Convention Centre (West) in Ballroom A/B and are being live-streamed via Wordplay’s Vidflex platform, provided by Digital Sponsor TELUS. In-person attendees are welcome to enjoy the Exhibition Area throughout Ballroom C/D and the Ballroom Foyer. Please note that the below panel/meal break times are subject to change.

We would like to also acknowledge Culture Sponsor Graham Construction, Youth Sponsor PwC, and Registration Sponsor Tourmaline, as well as partner iTOTEM Analytics for assistance with our attendee survey.

We are grateful to work with the following service providers:

  • Burst! Creative Group for visual identity and design.

  • Encore for audio-visual, Oh Boy Productions for show production, and Riggit for lighting,

  • Global Public Affairs for media relations and Headwaters Strategy for communications and event delivery support,

  • Traditionelle for talent bookings, and

  • Securiguard for event security.

If you are interested in viewing the condensed agenda, please click the below button.

Tuesday, June 4th, 2024

4:00 PM - 6:30 PM: Early Registration

4:00 PM to 6:30 PM | Tuesday, June 4th, 2024

Early registration at the Vancouver Convention Centre (West) will be open between 4:00 pm and 6:30 pm.

Wednesday, June 5th, 2024

7:00 AM - 7:55 AM: BREAKFAST

Breakfast: Day 1

7:00 AM to 7:55 AM | Wednesday, June 5th, 2024

Registration will open at 6:45 am, with breakfast being served in the Ballroom Foyer from 7:00 am to 7:55 am.

The hot breakfast buffet will include options for everyone, including vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free diets.

Sponsored by University Canada West.

8:00 AM - 8:30 AM: OPENING

Introductory Remarks and Traditional Welcome

8:00 AM to 8:30 AM | Wednesday, June 5th, 2024

Following a traditional welcome, opening remarks will be provided by Vancouver’s Deputy Mayor Lenny Zhou, Event Chair Chief Ian Campbell, Conference MC Aaron Pete, Event Founder Stewart Muir, and Cheryl Yaremko, representing event patron sponsor GCT Global Container Terminals.

Chair:
Chief Ian Campbell

Conference MC:
Aaron Pete

Founder:
Stewart Muir

Welcome:
Deputy Mayor Lenny Zhou

Sponsor Remarks:
Cheryl Yaremko

8:30 AM - 9:15 AM: PANEL

Learnings from North America's First UNDRIP Jurisdiction: Celebrating Five Years

8:30 AM to 9:15 AM | Wednesday, June 5th, 2024

Participants:

  • Byng Giraud, President, Sedgwick Strategies Inc. (moderator),

  • Melanie Mark, former BC MLA and Cabinet Minister,

  • Doug Caul, Deputy Minister at the Government of British Columbia, and

  • Chief John Jack, Chief Councillor for the Huu-ay-aht First Nations.

Moderator:
Byng Giraud

Participant:
Melanie Mark

Participant:
Doug Caul

Participant:
Chief John Jack

About the participants:

  • HLI HAYKWHL ẂII XSGAAK, Melanie Mark is a bold leader, tenacious advocate and strategist with over 25 years experience navigating public service and political systems with a demonstrated track record advancing social, environmental, and economic justice through reconciliation. She is Nisga'a, Gitxsan, Cree and Ojibway and was the premiere First Nations woman to be elected to the Legislative Assembly of British Columbia in 2016 and to serve in B.C.’s Cabinet.

  • Byng Giraud specializes in obtaining approvals for major projects in the industrial, natural resources and infrastructure sectors. Byng has been using his experience to help client’s de-risk large scale projects at early stages to allow for construction. Byng founded Sedgwick Strategies in early 2019. Previously, Byng was with Woodfibre LNG and led the project locally as Country Manager. Highlights of Byng’s work include obtaining the federal, provincial, and indigenous approval of the Woodfibre LNG project which included negotiating and implementing the first ever indigenous led environmental assessment process in Canada. Byng also negotiated the first ever agreements between operating mines and First Nations in British Columbia.

  • Doug Caul is a Deputy Minister, Policy and Coordination at the Office of the Premier. Prior to that, he served as the Deputy Minister of the Ministry of Indigenous Relations and Reconciliation, and before that as the Associate Deputy Minister at the Environmental Assessment Office (EAO) for two years. He has also held Assistant Deputy Minister roles with the Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure, BC Public Service Agency, Ministry of Energy and Mines, and the Ministry of Economic Development. Previous to his executive appointments, Doug Caul served as a provincial Chief Negotiator representing the Province in several negotiations with First Nations. Since joining the BC public service in 1992, he has also worked in the Ministries of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food; and Forests.

  • Chief John Jack, traditional name Sayaač̓atḥ, is in his fifth term as a Member of Council, returning as Chief Councillor for the Huu-ay-aht First Nations (HFN). With experience in treaty related matters and administration predating his election, John has extensive knowledge and expertise in matters of Huu-ay-aht law, governance practices, administrative systems and overall corporate memory. He has a breadth of experience in working with various local, provincial, federal governments and businesses of all sizes.

9:15 AM - 9:40 AM: PANEL

Innovative Approaches to Gender Safety in the Resource Development Industry

9:15 AM to 9:40 AM | Wednesday, June 5th, 2024

Participants:

  • Christine Kennedy, CEO of Woodfibre LNG,

  • Michelle Mungall, Former MLA and BC Cabinet Minister (moderator),

  • Deanna Lewis, Former Squamish Nation Councillor, and

  • Shayla Jacobs, Squamish Nation Elected Councillor.

Sponsored by Woodfibre LNG.

Participant:
Christine Kennedy

Moderator:
Michelle Mungall

Participant:
Deanna Lewis

Participant:
Shayla Jacobs

About the participants:

  • As President of Woodfibre LNG, Christine Kennedy is responsible for leading the project through construction. Ms. Kennedy’s current focus is to reach commissioning of the world’s most innovative and sustainable liquefied natural gas export facility ever built. Ms. Kennedy brings more than 25 years’ experience in senior management roles in the natural resource sector, government, and international market development. Prior to joining WLNG, she held senior roles in the provincial government and the forest products and renewable energy sectors. Ms. Kennedy was recently the Deputy Minister of Jobs, Economic Development and Competitiveness and previously the Associate Deputy Minister in British Columbia’s Office of the Premier. In previous roles, Ms. Kennedy was the founding CEO of Forestry Innovation investment Ltd, a crown corporation that works with industry to develop new global markets, a Vice President with the Coast Forest Products Association and a Senior Vice President with Canadian Forest Products Ltd.

  • As the Member for BC’s Legislative Assembly for Nelson-Creston from 2009 to 2020, and in her roles as BC’s Minister for Energy, Mines and Petroleum Resources from 2017 to 2020 and Minister of Jobs, Economic Development and Competitiveness in 2020, Michelle Mungall was a voice for indigenous partnerships and reconciliation. She is also a lifelong feminist and advocate for gender equality. She has recently been able to bring these passions together in support of Woodfibre LNG's Gender Safety and Equity Program. Michelle also works with Energy Storage Canada, is a regular contributor to the Vancouver Sun and has recently completed the manuscript for her memoir titled Minister Mom.

  • Deanna Lewis is a educator, entrepreneur and cultural ambassador, she is a Squamish Nation Owner of KC Kalkalilh Communications. Deanna is a member of the Sḵwx̱wú7mesh people, and her ancestral name is Kalkalilh. She served on Squamish Nation council for four years and is a Cultural Awareness and Gender Safety Facilitator and Artist.  

  • Shayla Jacobs is a proud member of the Sḵwx̱wú7mesh Nation and a mother of two daughters. She is a dynamic leader advocating for elders and youth, sports and culture, gender safety, community safety and MMIWG. Shayla holds a diploma in Business Fundamentals, Child and Youth Care and brings 15+ years experience working with various Indigenous communities and business sectors. She holds a seat in several unique First Nations committees and is the President of the Squamish Lil’Wat Cultural Centre. Additionally, she is a dedicated player in the Metro Women’s Soccer League, played with NIFA Canada soccer association, and represented Team B.C for soccer in 2006 to 2008.

9:40 AM - 10:10 AM: KEYNOTE & DISCUSSION

Keynote: Karen Ogen

9:40 AM to 10:15 AM | Wednesday, June 5th, 2024

Following a keynote address by Karen Ogen, Kory Wilson and Stewart Muir will join for a discussion.

Participants:

  • Karen Ogen, CEO of the First Nations LNG Alliance,

  • Kory Wilson, Executive Director, Indigenous Initiatives and Partnerships at BCIT (moderator), and

  • Stewart Muir, Founder of the Indigenous Partnerships Success Showcase.

The panel will be introduced by Craig Hallden, Corporate Relations Manager at LNG Canada.

Sponsored by LNG Canada.

Keynote:
Karen Ogen

Moderator:
Kory Wilson

About the participants:

  • Karen Ogen, former Chief of the Wet’suwet’en First Nation and CEO of the First Nations LNG Alliance, champions responsible LNG development in Canada, focusing on environmental sustainability and First Nations' engagement. With a rich background in social work and Indigenous governance, her leadership is aimed at enhancing economic opportunities for Indigenous communities through responsible resource development. Karen, the first in her family to achieve two Master's degrees, has been recognized as a significant influencer in BC, advocating for dialogue between First Nations, industry, and government on resource opportunities. She is a celebrated leader, acknowledged for her impactful work in the resources sector.

  • Kory Wilson (Kwakwaka’wakw), BSc. JD, is the Executive Director of Indigenous Initiatives and Partnerships for British Columbia Institute of Technology. She created and led the launch of BCIT’s Indigenous Vision. In June 2022, BCIT Indigenous Initiatives and Partnerships was awarded the Gold Award for Excellence in Global Indigenous Education. She is Co-chair of the World Federation of Colleges and Polytechnics Indigenous Affinity Group. Kory has over 20 years of experience in post-secondary education, community development, and legal profession. She was instrumental in the creation of six open-sourced BC Campus Indigenization Guides.

  • Stewart Muir is the founder and CEO of Resource Works, which hosts IPSS. Muir is a historian and award-winning journalist with a passion for the natural legacies of British Columbia. A graduate of Simon Fraser University and the University of British Columbia, he was a director of The Nature Trust of British Columbia from 2006 until 2014. During a fellowship at the renowned Centre for the Study of European Expansion at Leiden University in The Netherlands, he studied economic botany and the long-term consequences of deforestation and climate change.

Participant:
Stewart Muir

10:15 AM - 10:45 AM: BREAK

Morning Networking: Day 1

10:15 AM to 10:45 AM | Wednesday, June 5th, 2024

An opportunity to connect with panellists and other conference attendees, and check out exhibitor booths.

Coffee and tea, as well as cookies, will be served throughout the Ballroom Foyer and Ballroom C/D Exhibition Area.

Sponsored by Mosaic Forest Management.

10:45 AM - 11:25 AM: PANEL

Indigenous Data Sovereignty and Digital Equity: Ongoing Lessons from the Adoption of AI Technologies

10:45 AM to 11:25 AM | Wednesday, June 5th, 2024

Participants:

  • Natiea Vinson, CEO of the First Nations Technology Council,

  • James Delorme, CEO of Indigelink Digital Inc.,

  • Christy Morgan, Reconciliation Strategy Manager at TELUS (moderator), and

  • Justin Watts, Director of Engineering and Productivity at TELUS.

Sponsored by TELUS.

Participant:
Natiea Vinson

Participant:
James Delorme

Moderator:
Christy Morgan

Participant:
Justin Watts

About the participants:

  • Natiea Vinson is the CEO of the First Nations Technology Council, where she is responsible for guiding the organization into the future as it empowers First Nations communities across BC to thrive in the digital age. She is has more than a decade of experience working as an entrepreneur and across academia, social enterprise organizations and the public and private sectors. In all her roles, Natiea has advocated for institutional innovation, reconciliation, and Indigenous renewal. Natiea holds a Master of Business Administration from Simon Fraser University and a Bachelor of Fine Arts from Concordia University. A member of Tk’emlúps te Secwe̓pemc, Natiea is grateful to live on the traditional and unceded territory of Xʷməθkʷəy̓əm (Musqueam) First Nation in Vancouver.

  • James Delorme is an Indigenous Digital and Social Disrupter. With the guiding principles of Indigenous knowledge and the foundations of cultural safety and humility, James uses his leadership skills to serve First Nation communities, government and the private sector with economic and social projects alike. As former Chief of the Klahoose First Nation he had the privilege of heralding housing, technology, eco-tourism, green energy, aquaculture and forestry projects serving the social and economic needs of the Klahoose. In his current role as CEO of technology and research company Indigelink Digital Inc, he remains steadfast working on passion projects with Internet Connectivity, Data Governance and emerging technologies such as Artificial Intelligence, Blockchain Self Sovereign Identity and IM / IT projects.

  • Christy Morgan (she/her) is a proud First Nations woman from the St'uxwtéws (Bonaparte) Band, which is a part of the Secwepemc (Shuswap) Nation, in British Columbia. She holds a Degree in Social Work from the University of Calgary. She is currently employed with TELUS as the Reconciliation Strategy Manager where she works within a team to support various TELUS business units and organize to embed Reconciliation, meaningful relationships and Indigenous paradigm into the work. She has worked for 24+ years in the area of community development and relations building with the urban Indigenous community in Calgary and area and cherishes the friendships and relationships that have grown from this.

  • Justin Watts (they/them) is a bifurcation of computer scientist and anthropologist with a passion for helping organizations adopt cultures of enablement. They believe that individuals are happiest when they have autonomy and purpose, such that they can seek mastery.

11:25 AM - 11:50 AM: PANEL

Forging Paths to Economic Reconciliation Together: Strategies for Sustainable Indigenous Partnerships

11:25 AM to 11:50 AM | Wednesday, June 5th, 2024

Participants:

  • C.G. Singh, CEO of Glen Group,

  • Steven Stark, CEO of Tsawwassen Shuttles Inc and Two Worlds Transportation, and

  • Chief Ian Campbell, Hereditary Chief of the Squamish Nation (moderator).

Sponsored by Glen Group.

Participant:
C.G. Singh

Participant:
Steven Stark

Moderator:
Chief Ian Campbell

About the participants:

  • C.G. Singh is the CEO and founder of Glen Group of Companies, where he leads a diverse portfolio of businesses that offer a range of services, from security and staffing to construction and towing.

  • Steven Stark is a member of the Tsawwassen First Nation and an entrepreneur. After overcoming numerous challenges common to Indigenous youth in his 20’s he got involved in the community and its businesses, eventually being elected Councillor with the First Nation and founding Tsawwassen Shuttles Inc. and Two Worlds Transportation. Today, he is President and CEO of those businesses.

  • Chief Ian Campbell is the governance chair of the Indigenous Partnerships Success Showcase. A hereditary chief of the Squamish Nation, Chief Ian also served for sixteen years as an elected councillor. He was a lead negotiator for Squamish Nation on various resource projects including Woodfibre LNG, resulting in the first-ever independent, binding Indigenous environmental assessment of a major project in Canada. He was also instrumental in the establishment of the MST Development Corporation, which oversees land development in a joint partnership between the Musqueam Indian Band, Squamish Nation, and the Tsleil-Waututh Nation.

11:50 AM - 12:55 PM: LUNCH

Lunch: Day 1

11:50 AM to 12:55 PM | Wednesday, June 5th, 2024

The hot lunch buffet in the Ballroom Foyer, with seating in Ballroom A/B, will include options for everyone, including vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free diets. Attendees will be invited to eat, network, and explore the Exhibition Area.

Sponsored by the Canadian Association of Petroleum Producers (CAPP).

12:55 PM - 1:30 PM: PANEL

Economic Reconciliation in the National Discourse

12:55 PM to 1:30 PM | Wednesday, June 5th, 2024

Participants:

  • Jamie Schmale, Member of Parliament for Haliburton-Kawartha Lakes-Brock,

  • Jennifer “Elle” Laewetz, Warshield,

  • Ellis Ross, Member of the BC Legislative Assembly for Skeena, and

  • Margareta Dovgal, Event Lead for IPSS (moderator).

Sponsored by GCT Global Container Terminals.

Participant:
Jamie Schmale

Participant:
Jennifer “Elle” Laewetz

Participant:
Ellis Ross

Moderator:
Margareta Dovgal

About the participants:

  • Jamie Schmale has been the Member of Parliament for Haliburton-Kawartha Lakes-Brock since 2015. He started his career as News Anchor and later News Director for CHUM Media Kawarthas. Covering news, municipal politics, and sports in Lindsay, Ontario. Raised in Bobcaygeon, he now calls Lindsay home. A professional, father, and volunteer, Jamie is actively involved in a number of local charities and not-for-profits. Most recently, Jamie serves as Shadow Minister for Crown-Indigenous Relations and Indigenous Services, and currently serves as Vice-Chair of the Standing Committee on Indigenous and Northern Affairs.

  • Jennifer Laewetz is a proud member of George Gordon First Nation in Saskatchewan. She is a seasoned professional in policy and government relations and is based in Northern Saskatchewan. With a diverse background spanning the private sector and political sphere, Jennifer previously served as a political staffer to a Conservative Member of Parliament in Saskatchewan for six years. Transitioning back to the private sector, she now contributes her expertise to Warshield, an Indigenous consulting and government relations firm. Here, her blend of governmental insight and Indigenous perspective proves invaluable in navigating complex issues for both First Nations and the private sector. Jennifer leverages social media as a powerful tool for advocacy, cultivating a significant presence on platforms like X (formerly Twitter) and TikTok.

  • Ellis Ross was elected MLA for Skeena in 2017 and again in 2020. He currently serves as the Shadow Minister for Energy and LNG. He has previously served as the Official Opposition Critic for Environment and Climate Change Strategy, and Minister of Natural Gas Development and Minister Responsible for Housing. He has worked in both the private and public sectors, with business experience in hand logging, beach-combing, and construction. Ellis worked full time as a taxi boat operator until the Haisla Nation Council requested that he become their first full-time councillor. Ellis served in this position for eight years, from 2003 to 2011. In 2011, Ellis was elected Chief Councillor of the Haisla Nation, and was re-elected by acclamation in 2013. In recognition of his community service, Ellis was awarded the Queen Elizabeth II Diamond Jubilee medal in 2013 and the Order of BC in 2014.

  • Margareta Dovgal is Managing Director of the Resource Works Society. Involved in delivering the Indigenous Partnerships Success Showcase since 2020, she been the showrunner and Event Lead since 2022. A regular commentator on public policy, politics, and business, she has a Master of Public Administration in Energy, Technology, and Climate Policy from University College London. Margareta has worked and volunteered on political campaigns at all levels.

1:30 PM - 2:05 PM: PANEL

From Procurement Partners to Project Proponents: Musqueam's Success Story

1:30 PM to 2:05 PM | Wednesday, June 5th, 2024

Participants:

  • Jay Mearns, Director of Business Development for Musqueam Capital Corp.,

  • Sandra Fossella, Client & Community Relationship Officer for Musqueam Capital Corp.,

  • Terry Mitchell, Vice President Indigenous Relations at Graham Construction, and

  • Kory Wilson, Executive Director, Indigenous Initiatives and Partnerships at BCIT (moderator).

The panel will be introduced by Josh Dodman, Vice President, Industrial Development at Beedie.

Sponsored by Beedie.

Introductions made by:

  • Josh Dodman, Josh Dodman is Beedie’s Vice President of Industrial Development and oversees Beedie’s large-format development projects as well as structuring Beedie’s design-build transactions. Beedie is proud to support IWSS and take pride in our close relationships with First Nations across British Columbia.

Participant:
Jay Mearns

Participant:
Sandra Fossella

Participant:
Terry Mitchell

Moderator:
Kory Wilson

About the participants:

  • Jay Mearns, a proud Musqueam member, is the Director of Business Development for Musqueam Capital Corporation (MCC) which is the Economic Development arm for The Musqueam Nation. As the Director of Business Development, Jay is responsible for identifying, creating, and driving new business opportunities. Jay has developed and implemented a partnership-based business model that allows Musqueam to participate in work throughout countless sectors, building the capacity of MIB through economic reconciliation and socio-economic contributions.

  • Sandra Fossella is a member of the Musqueam First Nations is the Community and Client Relationship Officer for the Musqueam Capital Corporation Business Development team. Sandra prides herself in bridging the gaps between industry and community by working closely with key social departments such as Employment and training, education and connecting the community to long standing industry partners. She also assists in facilitating contracting opportunities or advisory services to entrepreneurs looking to start or grow their businesses and building capacity.

  • Terry Mitchell is a citizen of Heart Lake First Nation. Terry is an alumnus of the University of Regina and member of the Canadian Institute of Management (CIM) earning globally recognized management and leadership accreditations. Previously elected as the CIM National Executive Vice-Chair and Chair of the Indigenous Relations Group. As Vice President, Indigenous Relations, Terry leads the Indigenous Relations portfolio for Graham Group, headquartered in Calgary. Terry has been instrumental in establishing Graham’s long history of meaningful Indigenous alliances within Canada and maintains oversight in the US Tribal market.

  • Kory Wilson (Kwakwaka’wakw), BSc. JD, is the Executive Director of Indigenous Initiatives and Partnerships for British Columbia Institute of Technology. She created and led the launch of BCIT’s Indigenous Vision. In June 2022, BCIT Indigenous Initiatives and Partnerships was awarded the Gold Award for Excellence in Global Indigenous Education. She is Co-chair of the World Federation of Colleges and Polytechnics Indigenous Affinity Group. Kory has over 20 years of experience in post-secondary education, community development, and legal profession. She was instrumental in the creation of six open-sourced BC Campus Indigenization Guides.

2:10 PM - 3:10 PM: PANEL

Empowering Collaboration: Indigenous-Led Partnerships and Consortiums

2:10 PM to 3:10 PM | Wednesday, June 5th, 2024

Participants:

  • Chief David Jimmie, Squiala First Nation,

  • Monika Wilson, Senior Manager Indigenous Consulting at MNP, and

  • Emily Black, Director Strategic Projects and Partnerships at Enbridge (moderator).

Sponsored by Enbridge.

Participant:
Chief David Jimmie

Participant:
Monika Wilson

Moderator:
Emily Black

  • Chief David Jimmie currently serves as Chief & CEO of Squiala First Nation located in Chilliwack, B.C. He is the President of Sto:lo Nation, representing 9 Sto:lo communities; and President of the Ts’elxweyeqw Tribe, representing seven communities. He is the former co-chair alongside the National Chief for the National Chief’s Committee on Fiscal Relations and currently sits on the Chilliwack Hospital Foundation Board and the Sts’ailes Economic Development Board.

  • Monika Wilson is a member of Fort McKay First Nation, and a mother to a wonderful little boy. She is a Senior Manager, Indigenous Consulting with MNP. Monika is also the Treaty 8 Director and President of Athabasca Indigenous Investments, the historic equity investment between Enbridge and 23 Indigenous communities. Prior to working at MNP, Monika was the Vice President of the private equity firm owned by Fort McKay First Nation, and has spent time working for a national law firm and a municipal government. Monika holds a Juris Doctor, a MBA, and she was called to the bar in British Columbia. She is currently working towards the CFA certification.

  • Emily Black, In her role as Director, Strategic Projects & Partnerships, Emily is accountable for the successful execution of projects and Indigenous partnerships in BC. Emily has been with Enbridge for over 11 years and has held various commercial roles in Enbridge’s western Canada gas business. Before being named to her current role in March, Emily was Director of Business Development and was responsible for securing new growth opportunities related to natural gas, LNG and low carbon fuels. Prior to joining Enbridge in 2012, Emily worked for the federal government at the Treasury Board of Canada Secretariat and the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency.

3:10 PM - 3:45 PM: BREAK

Afternoon Networking: Day 1

3:10 PM to 3:45 PM | Wednesday, June 5th, 2024

An opportunity to connect with panellists and other conference attendees, and check out exhibitor booths.

Coffee and tea, as well as cookies, will be served in the Ballroom C/D Exhibition Area.

Sponsored by BC Building Trades.

3:45 PM - 4:15 PM: PANEL

Partnership in Principle and in Practice: Measuring Progress

3:45 PM to 4:15 PM | Wednesday, June 5th, 2024

Participants:

  • Kat Holman, Principal at Holman Strategic Solutions Inc. (moderator),

  • Chief Gilbert "Gibby" Jacob, Squamish Nation Hereditary Chief,

  • Caoimhe Laird, Human Rights Researcher, and

  • Patti Derbyshire, Sr. Consultant – Research, Learning and Equity Systems at Rise Consulting Ltd.

Moderator:
Kat Holman

Participant:
Caoimhe Laird

About the participants:

  • Katlan Holman is a conflict specialist with over 15 years of experience in contentious negotiations and strategic relationship building. She has worked with over 85 Indigenous communities in Canada and the US, negotiating agreements, working together on community development, and providing consultation for resource development projects. She focuses on how to bring people together for a shared future in an environment of historical and often violent grievances where identities and relationships are more impactful than interests. She is a skilled negotiator, trained mediator, and sought after strategic planner with clients from government, large business, the energy industry, property development, and NGOs. In addition to her consultancy, Katlan runs a research institute that focuses on complex social issues, designing empirical based data collection and uncovering strategies to navigate the complicated constellation of forces behind the issues.

  • Chief Gibby Jacob, whose ancestral name is Kákeltn Siyám, carries the title of hereditary Chief and is a member of the Squamish Nation located in North Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada. Chief Gilbert "Gibby" Jacob is an exceptional leader who dedicated over three decades of his life to standing up for his people and a critical player in numerous local, national, and international dialogues. Chief Jacob bore witness to the generational disruptions caused by the residential school system and the profound loss of an ancient lineage. He is a man with quiet power and was twice recognized as a significant member of society and honoured with Vancouver Magazine's Power 50 Award. Chief Gibby founded Treasure Box Entertainment in 2023 with filmmaker Andy Keen, with an idea to record precious knowledge and transfer valuable teachings to the next generation.

  • Caoimhe Laird is a human rights researcher from Thompson Rivers University. She has done recent research on how Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) is integrated into Canadian Resource Development, specifically as it relates to reconciliation across business practice. She currently writes for Resource Works as an expert on Indigenous integration into CSR. Caoimhe grew up in Treaty 7 territory in Calgary, Alberta and holds a great affinity for the natural beauty of Western Canada.

  • Patti Derbyshire is a Sr. Consultant – Research, Learning and Equity Systems at Rise Consulting Ltd, an Indigenous-owned national management consultancy. A non-Indigenous team member, Patti holds enduring and continuing relationship in Siksikaitsitapii/ Blackfoot Confederacy where she was invited to ceremony and taught by Elder Frank Weasel Head (Miiksskim) some 30 years ago. She is currently a guest on the unceded territories of the qiqéyt and kʷikʷəƛ̓əm First Nations alongside the North Fraser Métis community. Her current projects involve dialogues with Indigenous and sector leaders about the operationalization of the UN Act in Canada and what this means for corporate Canada and Call-to-Action #92 in the coming decade. She upholds obligations to xʷməθkʷəy̓əm at the Indigenous Health Research and Education Garden at UBC, to the Indigitalization Lab at SFU, and on projects contributing to 2SMMIWG strategy and action, supporting northern and remote persons and communities who seek equity and access to forensic DNA services and cultural care following sexual violence.

Participant:
Chief Gibby Jacob

Participant:
Patti Derbyshire

4:15 PM - 4:30 PM: CLOSING

Closing: Day 1

4:15 PM to 4:30 PM | Wednesday, June 5th, 2024

In addition to end-of-day remarks by Event Chair Chief Ian Campbell, Event Founder Stewart Muir, and MC Aaron Pete, guests will hear from representatives of Graham Construction, our Cultural Sponsor, and the Canadian Carbon Capture Coalition, our Reception Sponsor.

The day will cap off with a performance by Notorious Cree.

About the performer:

James Jones is Nehiyaw (Cree) from Tall Cree First Nation in Treaty 8 territory in northern Alberta. Known as Notorious Cree across Instagram and TikTok, James has an engaging community of over 6M+ people globally. James uses his voice to educate and spread awareness on the issues impacting Indigenous communities across the globe. As a traditional hoop and powwow dancer, performance artist, youth workshop facilitator, and public speaker, James advocates to inspire future generations by reclaiming his culture and encouraging others to do the same.

Notable performances include the Winter Olympics, Juno Awards, Pan Am Games, Coachella and was a previous contestant on SYTYCD Canada.

Reception and Dinner (Wednesday, June 5th, 2024)

5:00 PM - 7:00 PM: RECEPTION

Reception: Day 1

5:00 PM to 7:00 PM | Wednesday, June 5th, 2024

Taking place in the Ballroom Foyer and Exhibition Area, the Reception will be open to all conference and dinner attendees.

Bring your drink ticket provided at registration, and enjoy a selection of hot and cold canapes, with the musical accompaniment of DJ Skyler Love.

A self-serve photo booth will be available throughout the reception in the Ballroom Foyer, and attendees will also be able to enjoy a karaoke booth.

About the performer:

Dedicated to the beat movement, Sky has no borders when it comes to delivering the hype. Trekking from the beautiful mountains of the North, this beat bandit has made their sound heard on a global intercom. With diverse music selection and innovative mixes, Sky has brought every inner ear a dance rhythm and a floor sweep. Inspired by underground rave parties they attended in the 90’s Sky picked up their first set of turntables at the age of 15. Since then, they've witnessed the evolution of DJing and electronic music for over a decade and bring in the elements of old school and new school to their DJ sets.

Reception Sponsored by the Canadian Carbon Capture Coalition and Drinks Tickets sponsored by Onni, with thanks to Kitasoo/Xaixais Nation and Mowi for the donation of Klemtu Spirit smoked salmon.

7:00 PM - 9:00 PM: DINNER

Dinner and Awards

7:00 PM to 9:00 PM | Wednesday, June 5th, 2024

Following a traditional welcome and introductory remarks by Dinner MC Melanie Mark, IPSS will mark its inagural awards show component by recognizing the Honourable Larry Campbell and Wendy Grant-John, each receiving a Lifetime Achievement Award for Championing Reconciliation.

Talaysay Campo, an Indigenous business advocate and fashion influencer will speak, following an introduction by Mel Fowle from Youth Sponsor PwC.

Attendees will enjoy a plated three-course dinner and wine service, as well as a cash bar. Please note that this a separately-ticketed event.

Dinner will conclude with a series of performances by rock band Bitterly Divine and dancers wearing attire made by the multimedia artist Cory Bulpitt.

Dinner sponsored by Woodfibre LNG, LNG Canada, and Tsawwassen Shuttles, with thanks to Concord Pacific for sponsoring the Awards Show and to Grieg Seafood and Cermaq Canada for their support of the dinner meal.

About the honorees:

  • Wendy Grant-John has worked for more than 30 years to advance the causes of aboriginal peoples. She has served three terms as chief of the Musqueam First Nation. She was the first woman in Canada to be elected to the office of regional chief (British Columbia) for the Assembly of First Nations, a post she held for four years. She was also the first woman elected as Regional Chief representing BC’s 204 First Nations in the national Assembly of First Nations (AFN). In 1997, she ran in the national AFN election, where she was voted a close secondto becoming National Chief. She has worked as the Chief Negotiator for numerous agreements with governments and industry including with the federal government, YVR, Vancouver Fraser Port Authority and Metro Vancouver.

  • Larry Campbell, born in Brantford, Ontario, became a steelworker before joining the RCMP. He established Vancouver's first District Coroner's Office and later served as Chief Coroner. As Mayor of Vancouver, he pioneered the Four Pillars Drug strategy. Campbell also played a key role in securing the 2010 Winter Olympic Games and the Woodlands site redevelopment. Appointed to the Senate in 2005, he focused on drug policy, mental health, and Aboriginal issues.

About the artists:

  • Bitterly Divine is a Vancouver-based, new generation rock band. A thundering bass line and syncopated First Nations drumming define BD's sound. 5 of the 7-members group come from the Squamish Nation. Initially a blues band, they learned the 12-bar songbook of the Chicago greats with hints of the Who and Nirvana thrown in the mix.

  • Corey Bulpitt, also known as Taakeit Aaya or “Gifted Carver” by the Haida of the Naikun Raven clan, was born in Prince Rupert BC. He is a great-great grandson of the famed Charles Edenshaw and Louis Collison. Corey has worked beside and learned from many master carvers. He is also an avid painter, jeweler, wood and argillite carver who enjoys exploring different mediums such as spray paint and performance art.

    His contemporary graffiti art pieces can be seen in many museums, festivals like W2’s New Form Festival, and urban landscapes and the Vancouver Art Gallery. Corey is a member of the Beat Nation Live-Arts Collective and crafted a performance art project for the Sydney Biennale. In 2017, Corey received a BC Creative Achievement Award for Aboriginal Art.

  • Talaysay Campo, born and raised in the Squamish and Sechelt nation, is an Indigenous health and wellness advocate and keynote speaker of business and economic reconciliation.

Dinner MC:
Melanie Mark

Honoree:
Hon. Larry Campbell

Honoree:
Wendy Grant-John

Speaker:
Talaysay Campo

Performers:
Bitterly Divine

Artist:
Cory Bulpitt

Thursday, June 6th, 2024

7:00 AM - 7:55 AM: BREAKFAST

Breakfast: Day 2

7:00 AM to 7:55 AM | Thursday, June 6th, 2024

Registration will open at 7:00 am, with breakfast being served in the Ballroom Foyer from 7:00 am to 7:55 am.

The hot breakfast buffet will include options for everyone, including vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free diets.

8:00 AM - 8:30 AM: OPENING

Opening Remarks: Day 2

8:00 AM to 8:20 AM | Thursday, June 6th, 2024

Following a traditional welcome, opening remarks will be provided by Event Chair Chief Ian Campbell, Conference MC Aaron Pete, and Event Founder Stewart Muir.

8:20 AM - 9:20 AM: PANEL

Towards a New Era of Urban Land Development: the Cultural Ribbon at Great Northern Way

8:20 AM to 9:20 AM | Thursday, June 6th, 2024

Participants:

  • Tim Grant, President of PCI Developments (moderator),

  • Aaron Aubin, Founder and Principal of Aubin Consulting, and Member of the South Flats Indigenous Advisory Committee, and

  • Ginger Gosnell-Myers, Indigenous Fellow at Simon Fraser University

  • Cory Douglas, Modern Formline Design

  • David Wells, Vice President of Academic and Applied Research at Vancouver Community College

Sponsored by PCI Developments.

Moderator:
Tim Grant

Participant:
Ginger Gosnell-Myers

Participant:
Aaron Aubin

Participant:
Cory Douglas

Participant:
David Wells

About the participants:

  • Tim Grant leads PCI Developments’ Executive Team and is a partner in PCI. He is actively involved in all aspects of PCI’s operations and oversees successful completion of its projects. Tim is also on the Board and actively supports PCI’s affiliate Warrington PCI Property Management (WPM) and is Past Board Chair of Catalyst Community Developments Society.

  • Aaron Aubin established Aubin Consulting in 2015, after working for more than 20 years in a broad array of disciplines including architecture, community development, land use planning, environmental approvals, infrastructure, and Indigenous engagement. Aaron is active in the Aboriginal community and a member of the Da’naxda’xw / Awaetlala First Nation in British Columbia. He is also a registered professional planner with the Alberta Professional Planners Institute and a member of the Canadian Institute of Planners. Aaron works across a broad array of disciplines, leading large, complex multidisciplinary projects with Indigenous communities, land developers, industry, and all levels of government.

  • Ginger Gosnell-Myers, of Nisga’a and Kwakwak'awakw heritage is passionate about advancing Indigenous rights and knowledge, while breaking down barriers between Indigenous peoples and all Canadians.

  • Cory Douglas was born in Vancouver and is a Squamish Nation member with Haida and Tsimshian ancestry. Cory began his business ‘Modern Formline’ as a graphic artist and is now proficiently designing drums, tattoos, original paintings and hand engraved jewelery.

  • David Wells is Dean of the School of Arts and Sciences and entered the role of VP in July 2019. He is the senior education officer for VCC and responsible for program development and curriculum indigenization for over 150 programs across three campuses in the School of Arts and Science, School of Health Sciences, School of Trades, Technology and Design, and School of Hospitality, Food Studies and Applied Business.

9:20 AM - 10:00 AM: BREAK

Morning Networking: Day 2

9:20 AM to 10:00 AM | Thursday, June 6th, 2024

An opportunity to connect with panellists and other conference attendees, and check out exhibitor booths.

Coffee and tea, as well as cookies, will be served throughout the Ballroom Foyer and Ballroom C/D Exhibition Area.

Sponsored by Pacific Canbriam Energy.

10:00 AM - 10:40 AM: KEYNOTE & DISCUSSION

Fireside Chat with Ken Coates & Karen Restoule

10:00 AM to 10:40 AM | Thursday, June 6th, 2024

Following a keynote address by Ken S. Coates, Karen Restoule will join for a fireside chat.

Participants:

  • Ken S. Coates, Distinguished Fellow and Director of Indigenous Affairs at the Macdonald-Laurier Institute, and

  • Karen Restoule, Vice President at Crestview Strategy.


Sponsored by Canadian Natural.

Keynote:
Ken Coates

Participant:
Karen Restoule

About the participants:

  • Ken S. Coates is a Distinguished Fellow and Director of Indigenous Affairs at the Macdonald-Laurier Institute and a Professor of Indigenous Governance at Yukon University. He was formerly the Canada Research Chair in Regional Innovation in the Johnson-Shoyama Graduate School of Public Policy at the University of Saskatchewan. He has served at universities across Canada and at the University of Waikato (New Zealand), an institution known internationally for its work on Indigenous affairs. He has also worked as a consultant for Indigenous groups and governments in Canada, New Zealand, and Australia as well as for the United Nations, companies, and think tanks. He has previously published on such topics as Arctic sovereignty, Aboriginal rights in the Maritimes, northern treaty and land claims processes, regional economic development, and government strategies for working with Indigenous peoples in Canada.

  • Karen Restoule is a Vice President at Crestview Strategy based in Toronto. A bilingual strategist and communications specialist, she is an expert at fostering collaboration among parties by identifying common goals and objectives to bring divergent views together to develop partnerships and shared success.Prior to joining Crestview Strategy, Karen led an environmental consulting firm working with Indigenous communities towards self-determination, building on a previous role supporting First Nations leadership at Chiefs of Ontario where she played a pivotal role advancing innovative and strategic policy solutions to legacy challenges. She also led the modernisation of Ontario’s administrative justice system at Tribunals Ontario, including key transformations at the Licence Appeal Tribunal, Ontario Parole Board, Human Rights Tribunal Ontario, and most recently the Landlord and Tenant Board. Karen is Ojibwe from Dokis First Nation.

10:40 AM - 11:25 PM: PANEL

Bridging the Gap: Building to Meet Infrastructure Needs for All Nations

10:40 AM to 11:25 AM | Thursday, June 6th, 2024

Participants:

  • Melissa Mbarki, Policy Advisor to Minister of Energy and Minerals at the Government of Alberta,

  • Max FineDay, CEO and Partner at Warshield, and

  • Chad Rickaby, Co-Founder and CEO at Climate Door

Participant:
Melissa Mbarki

Participant:
Max FineDay

Participant:
Chad Rickaby

About the participants:

  • Melissa Mbarki is Policy Advisor to Alberta Minister of Energy and Minerals Brian Jean. She grew up on the Muskowekwan First Nation reserve in Saskatchewan, leaving for higher education at seventeen and later starting her career in the natural resource sector. She has worked on pipeline projects that crossed three provinces, a large scale acquisition project that involved billions in oil & gas assets and land transfers for a Treaty Land Entitlement settlement. The most rewarding part of her career was working with environmental groups and land reclamation. This allowed her to bring the traditional knowledge that she learned from her mushum (grandpa) and combine it current day practices.

  • Max FineDay is a policy, communications, and government relations professional, and a citizen of the Sweetgrass First Nation in Treaty 6 Territory, Saskatchewan. With over a decade of experience working for Indigenous peoples, Max specializes in navigating governments, developing organizational capacity, and working with Indigenous communities to achieve their goals. As CEO of Warshield, he is dedicated to advancing the rights of Indigenous communities through building partnerships with industry, civil society, and government.

  • Chad Rickaby has a background in public policy that gives him a strong understanding of governance in the private and public sectors. Chad applies his diverse skill set to a wide range of projects including economic impact analysis. He is particularly interested in energy policy and regulation, and in exploring different social indicators and proxies to measure social impacts. Chad holds a Master’s in Public Policy and Global Affairs, where he focused on energy policy, green energy transition, and sustainable development policy in the Asia-Pacific.

11:25 AM - 12:00 PM: PANEL

Indigenous Partnerships in Alaska: Northwest Arctic Borough Entrepreneurial Development Project

11:25 AM to 12:00 PM | Thursday, June 6th, 2024

Participants:

  • Suzette McFaul, Founder and Managing Director of SEF Canada,

  • Wayne Hall, Manager, Community and Public Relations at Teck Alaska - Red Dog Mine,

  • Catherine Adair, Manager, Community Development at Teck Resources, and

  • Jay Schlosar, Principal at JMS Strategies (moderator).

    Sponsored by Teck.

Participant:
Suzette McFaul

Participant:
Wayne Hall

Participant:
Catherine Adair

About the participants:

  • Suzette McFaul is an entrepreneurial development expert and the founder and managing director of SEF Canada. Her first project in British Columbia, was to assist people in starting their own businesses and help existing businesses expand, this propriety system and methodology replicated with sustainability of 80% of businesses existing over 5 years. Suzette has worked directly with Aboriginal (First Nations and Metis) Canadian Communities in BC, Alberta, Saskatchewan, Ontario, Quebec and Nova Scotia and throughout the United States on various projects as well as various committees and boards as a subject expert.

  • Wayne Hall has worked in the mining industry for 33 years and joined Red Dog Mine in 1999. Wayne has a Bachelor of Science Degree in Environmental Studies from Western Washington University; Huxley College of Environmental Studies. He grew up and lives Juneau, Alaska where he and his wife raised three children. He has a keen interest in bridging environmental performance and community relations disciplines, focusing on the adaptation of management systems for community relations work to improve social performance.

  • Catherine Adair is the Manager, Community Development at Teck Resources. In this role, Catherine oversees the Community Investment portfolio, supporting local, national and global initiatives that advance community development programs focused on social, health and economic improvements. This includes Teck’s flagship Copper Health program, which advocates for the use of antimicrobial copper in public and health spaces as a proven technology to reduce the spread of infection and help keep us all safer. Catherine has worked at Teck for 14 years in corporate and site-based roles, and prior to Teck worked in local government and journalism.

  • Jay Schlosar is Principal of JMS Strategies, which provides advisory support to major industry and organizations to address challenges in public policy, sustainability, program management and delivery. With nearly 25 years of government and industry experience, he is a passionate proponent for solutions- oriented advocacy, relationship-building and innovation in support of collaborative and responsible resource development. Jay previously served as a Director at Teck Resources, where he was responsible for their corporate social performance, indigenous relations and community partnerships programs. Prior to that, Jay served in multiple senior leadership and public administration roles with the Province of British Columbia, including Assistant Deputy Minister and Deputy Chief of Staff to the Premier and provincial Cabinet.

Moderator:
Jay Schlosar

12:00 PM - 1:00 PM: LUNCH

Lunch: Day 2

12:00 PM to 1:00 PM | Thursday, June 6th, 2024

The hot lunch buffet in the Ballroom Foyer, with seating in Ballroom A/B, will include options for everyone, including vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free diets.

Attendees will be invited to eat, network, and explore the Exhibition Area.

Sponsor Remarks by Jeff Pinder and Erick Prieto.

1:00 PM to 1:45 PM: PANEL

Reconciliation in Action Through BC's First Major LNG Project: A Retrospective on Benefits to Indigenous Peoples

1:00 PM to 1:45 PM | Thursday, June 6th, 2024

Participants:

  • Chief Crystal Smith, Chief Councillor of the Haisla Nation,

  • Hope Regimbald, Stakeholder Relations Lead at LNG Canada, and

  • Barry Penner, Chair of the Energy Futures Institute (moderator).

Sponsored by LNG Canada.

Participant:
Hope Regimbald

Participant:
Chief Crystal Smith

Moderator:
Barry Penner

About the participants:

  • Crystal Smith has served the Haisla people for 13 years through her work with Haisla Nation Council, starting as Executive Assistant to Chief and Council from 2009 to 2013, then being elected Chief Councillor in 2017. In November, 2019, Crystal was named Chair of the First Nations LNG Alliance, a group committed to encouraging First Nations development of the LNG industry to provide employment and other sustainable benefits for BC’s indigenous people. Crystal advocates for Haisla Nation-owned joint venture and limited partnerships which allows for participation in major projects in Haisla territory. Using these opportunities provides Haisla membership to find rewarding work and educational opportunities to enhance their skills and improve the social conditions for all Haisla membership.

  • Hope Regimbald’s career reflects her commitment to reconciliation, Indigenous community development and collaboration. Her experience has spanned the country as manager of national campaigns dedicated to addiction awareness, healing, and reconciliation. She has also supported Canada’s largest energy projects specializing in community engagement and influencing organizational inclusion of Indigenous world view. She is currently based in Kitimat as Stakeholder Relations Lead with LNG Canada. An ESG practitioner in energy development; Hope meaningfully delivers agreement implementation, builds strategic partnerships, and incorporates community priorities into project strategy.

  • Barry Penner is a lawyer and former politician in the province of BC. He served as a Member of the Legislative Assembly of BC (MLA), representing the riding of Chilliwack from 1996 to 2001, Chilliwack-Kent from 2001 to 2009, and Chilliwack-Hope from 2009 to 2012. A caucus member of the British Columbia Liberal Party, he served in several cabinet posts under premiers Gordon Campbell and Christy Clark, including as Minister of Environment, Minister of Aboriginal Relations and Reconciliation, and Attorney General.

1:45 PM - 2:30 PM: PANEL

Update on Indigenous Business in Canada: 2024 and Beyond

1:45 PM to 2:30 PM | Thursday, June 6th, 2024

Participants:

  • Geena Jackson, Executive Producer of Bear’s Lair TV,

  • Tanya Corbet, Vice President & Director of Client Services at Sedgewick Strategies

  • Fred Di Blasio, CEO of Longhouse Capital Partners, and

  • Philip Ducharme, Vice President of Entrepreneurship and Procurement at the Canadian Council for Aboriginal Business.


Sponsored by GCT Global Container Terminals.

Participant:
Geena Jackson

Participant:
Fred Di Blasio

Moderator:
Philip Ducharme

Participant:
Tanya Corbet

About the participants:

  • Geena Jackson is a proud member of the Shishalh Nation (Sechelt) and a passionate advocate for Indigenous Rights and self-determination. She is an entrepreneur and business leader with 25 years of experience that has worked for First Nation communities and Industry. As an economic development officer for the Squamish Nation for 13 years, followed by executive positions with large Industry companies, Geena recognized that successful projects for Indigenous communities are founded on uniting three vital groups; Indigenous Communities, Industry Expertise and Government support systems. Geena has helped over 800 Indigenous entrepreneurs build and grow their businesses and social enterprises through exceptional technical assistance to write and attain grant funding and access loans. She is also the creator and host of the Bears Lair TV show on APTN which is dedicated to supporting Indigenous entrepreneurs on a National scale.

  • Fred Di Blasio is a proud member of the Huron-Wendat Nation and Co-Founder, Managing Partner and Chief Executive Officer of Longhouse Capital Partners. Prior to co-founding Longhouse, Fred served as Executive Vice President for Nch’Kay Development Corporation, the economic development arm of the Squamish Nation ($1.4 billion Sen̓áḵw Development). Fred is an experienced executive with a proven track record at AT&T, TELUS and INVIDI Technologies ($300M exit) with extensive experience in mergers and acquisitions (over $100 billion of deals), corporate development and marketing.

  • Tanya Corbet is an experienced engagement and business advisor, board member and community leader. She is a Member of the Tsawwassen First Nation (TFN), a former elected Councillor and former staffer of the TFN Government. Tanya also served as a Commissioner for the BC Treaty Commission, a position elected by the First Nations Summit. With over 25-years’ experience working with and leading First Nations, businesses and not-for-profits, Tanya provides her clients at Sedgwick Strategies with expert advice and guidance on best practices for building Indigenous partnerships and relationships leading to economic reconciliation. Tanya is an active member of the community serving as a volunteer on a wide-range of Boards at the local, provincial and national levels. She is currently a member of the New Relationship Trust Board of Directors, City of Delta’s Mayor’s Task Force on Diversity, Inclusion and Anti-Racism, and Reach Child and Youth Development Society Advisory Board.

  • Philip Ducharme is currently the Vice President of Entrepreneurship & Procurement at the Canadian Council for Aboriginal Business. In his role he is responsible for leading Supply Change™, CCAB’s Aboriginal Procurement Strategy and the Tools and Financing for Aboriginal Business (TFAB) program. In the last 25 years, Philip has held several senior roles with various Indigenous organizations across Canada in a variety of sectors including business, health, education, employment and awards and recognition. Philip currently participates as a member of the Supplier Stakeholder Network, Procurement Assistance Canada – Ontario region as well as being a member of the DIAG Indigenous Procurement Working Group


2:30 PM - 3:15 PM: PANEL

Indigenous Opportunities Across BC's Electrification Value Chain

2:30 PM to 3:15 PM | Thursday, June 6th, 2024

Participants:

  • Hon. Josie Osborne, BC Minister of Energy, Mines, and Low-Carbon Innovation,

  • Kwatuuma Cole Sayers, Executive Director of Clean Energy BC, and

  • Michelle Mungall, Former BC Cabinet Minister (moderator).

Introductions made by:

  • Leon Gaber, Executive Director and National Lead for KPMG Canada’s Critical Infrastructure Resilience & Emergency Management practice. He specializes in supporting governments, communities, and critical infrastructure asset owners in emergency planning and response, and in long-term planning to build resilience to climate hazards and reduce disaster risk. Leon spent 15 years working in the government of British Columbia, focusing on the oversight and implementation of large scale, politically sensitive initiatives across multiple sectors.

Participant:
Hon. Josie Osborne

Participant:
Kwatuuma Cole Sayers

Moderator:
Michelle Mungall

About the participants:

  • Hon. Josie Osborne was elected as MLA for Mid Island-Pacific Rim in 2020, and after first serving as Minister of Municipal Affairs, was appointed the first minister of the new ministry of Land, Water, and Resource Stewardship, which was formed in April 2022. In December of 2022, Josie was appointed Minister of Energy, Mines and Low Carbon Innovation. She grew up on Vancouver Island and has lived in Tofino for over 20 years, first moving there to work as a fisheries biologist for the Nuu-chah-nulth Tribal Council and later as executive director of an environmental education non-profit organization.

  • Kwatuuma Cole Sayers is from the Hupacasath and Alexander First Nations. Executive Director of Clean Energy BC, he believes in a sustainable, innovative clean energy future for First Nations and Canada where First Nations are equity owners and partners in major projects in the energy transition. He is a powerful advocate for First Nations involvement in renewable energy, community energy systems, and clean technology as a pathway for advancing energy sovereignty, nation-building, and economic reconciliation.

  • Michelle Mungall was the member for BC’s Legislative Assembly for Nelson-Creston from 2009 to 2020, and in her roles as BC’s Minister of Energy, Mines, and Petroleum Resources from 2017 to 2020, and Minister of Jobs, Economic Development, and Competitiveness in 2020, Michelle was a voice for Indigenous partnerships and reconciliation. After leaving public office to be closer to her growing family, Michelle is now working with Energy Storage Canada and Woodfibre LNG in senior advisory roles.

3:15 PM to 3:20 PM: Remark

A Look Into the Future with IndigeSTEAM: Machine Learning with Indigenous Youth

3:15 PM to 3:20 PM | Thursday, June 6th, 2024

Participants:

  • Rob Cardinal, STEAM Coordinator at IndigeSTEAM and,

  • Quinten, Student at IndigeSTEAM.

Sponsored by IndigeSTEAM.

Participant: Rob Cardinal

Participant: Quinten

About the participants:

  •  Rob Cardinal, Kakatoos’ina (Star Chief), is a proud Siksika Astronomer and technologist with the honor of being the STEAM Coordinator at the Siksika Board of Education. He is an intergenerational survivor of the trauma of colonization, residential schools and the 60's scoop. He holds a degree in Astrophysics from the University of Victoria and previously worked for the Canadian Space Agency at the University of Calgary as a Senior Research Associate building massively parallel computers and software to search for asteroids from space with the Canadian microsatellite space telescope called NEOSSat. 

  • Quentin is in grade 11 and is Cree Metis. He has a passion to bring STEAM to other indigenous youth, especially through robotics. Quentin has been involved with FIRST Robotics programs since 2018. He has travelled to Dubai to represent Canada at the FIRST global level. This year he was honoured to be a Dean’s List award recipient to show his success within FIRST Robotics. His future career goals are within the robotics field of engineering.

3:20 PM - 3:55 PM: BREAK

Afternoon Networking: Day 2

3:20 PM to 3:55 PM | Thursday, June 6th, 2024

An opportunity to connect with panellists and other conference attendees, and check out exhibitor booths.

Coffee and tea, as well as cookies, will be served throughout the Ballroom Foyer and Ballroom C/D Exhibition Area.

3:55 PM - 4:30 PM: CLOSING CEREMONIES

Closing Remarks

3:55 PM to 4:30 PM | Thursday, June 6th, 2024

Closing remarks will be provided by Event Chair Chief Ian Campbell, Event Founder Stewart Muir, Event Lead Margareta Dovgal, and Conference MC Aaron Pete, and will be followed by a special returning performance by Git Hayetsk (People of the Copper Shield).

About the performers:

West Coast First Nations mask-dancing group Git Hayetsk (People of the Copper Shield) from Vancouver B.C., present the dance traditions of the Sm’algyax speaking peoples of Southeast Alaska and Vancouver, British Columbia, which include the Nisga’a, Tsimshian, and Gitxsan Nations.

Led by Mike and Mique'l Dangeli, the group brings to life the carved masks which are featured in many of the dances and continue their dance traditions into contemporary times.

Their dance group reflects the diversity of the urban First Nations population of Vancouver.

Chair:
Chief Ian Campbell

Conference MC:
Aaron Pete

Founder:
Stewart Muir