Founder and Reconciliation Builder

Cara walks with strength from her Dene roots and lived experience as she continues to build reconciliation pathways between government, industry and Indigenous communities. Over the past 15 years, she’s fostered dialogue between government, industry and Indigenous communities through understanding diverse perspectives and creating a way forward to achieve common goals. With a passion for entrepreneurship, Cara leads facilitation from the perspective of interweaving two-world views resulting in self-determination and sovereignty for Indigenous communities. She holds a Bachelor of Commerce degree from Royal Roads University and volunteers her time as Vice President for the International Association of Public Participation (IAP2) Canada.

Knowledge Keeper

Gladys, a member of Jean Marie River First Nation, is a Dene Zhatié Knowledge Keeper and former Grand Chief of Deh Cho First Nations. As a leader in Indigenous community development, Gladys brings a unique perspective and deep understanding of Dene culture and language. With her experience in climate change advocacy, community development, and self-government negotiations, she offers strategic guidance to organizations seeking to build respectful and meaningful relationships with Indigenous communities. Gladys holds a Bachelor of Education Degree from the University of Saskatchewan.

Dayah Communications

Carla, a member of Mikisew Cree and descendent of Slave River First Nation, has a strong understanding about Indigenous perspectives and the needs of non-Indigenous organizations when it comes to digital communications. She creates a culturally safe space through empathy and sensitivity to truly understand where people are coming from and explores ways for authentic storytelling. An award-winning filmmaker, Carla is a director, writer and producer who takes pride in creating engagement work with a community focus. She holds a Diploma in Indigenous Digital Filmmaking from Capilano University.

Community Advocate

Sade, a member of Bigstone Cree Nation, facilitates meaningful dialogue with an open heart and open mind. Her authentic approach creates a culturally safe space ensuring all voices are heard resulting in long-lasting social impact. With over 10 years’ experience as an Indigenous facilitator with a focus on community advocacy, Sade strives to achieve making positive change for Indigenous People who aim for a higher quality of life. She holds a Diploma in Professional Counselling from Rhodes Wellness College.

Community Builder

Melissa, an alumna of Mount Royal University, is currently pursuing a Social Work degree at the University of Victoria. With 17 years of experience, she is dedicated to fostering community engagement and advancing the social work profession. As a member of the Deninu K’ue First Nations, her objective is to advocate for transparency, self-sufficiency, decolonization, and a reduction in social dependency and isolation. Melissa's approach involves fostering individual self-determination and reinforcing communal values through collaborative endeavours. She actively works to bridge gaps and cultivate mutual understanding among diverse groups.

Land Stewardship Advocate

Shaeleen, is a member of Big River First Nation, who has extensive experience working on behalf of First Nations in establishing land management frameworks and building relationships between government, industry and Indigenous communities. She’s developed land management departments on behalf of Fist Nation communities by understanding diverse perspectives and adhering to cultural protocol based on the shared stewardship of the land. She holds a Certification in First Nations Lands Management with the National Aboriginal Lands Managers Association.