Presenters
NACCA Forum
Presenters
Discover an incredible lineup of inspiring speakers
2025
Presenters
Elaine Chambers
Elaine is a proud citizen of the Champagne & Aishihik First Nation and of the Crow Clan. Over the past Thirty-Seven years Elaine has been employed with däna Näye Ventures and currently serves as Chief Executive Officer. She has served as a valued member of NACCA’s Board of Directors, contributing her deep understanding of the challenges and opportunities facing Indigenous entrepreneurs and communities.
Elaine’s vision and commitment to collaboration will guide NACCA into an exciting new chapter as we continue to empower Indigenous entrepreneurs through the Indigenous Financial Institutions (IFI’s) network and work toward Indigenous Prosperity.
Ken Coates
Ken Coates is a distinguished Canadian historian and scholar specializing in Indigenous rights, northern development, and Canadian history. He holds a PhD in history from the University of British Columbia and has served in key academic roles, including Canada Research Chair at the University of Saskatchewan and Dean of Arts at the University of Waterloo. Currently, he is the Program Chair of Indigenous Governance at Yukon University and Director of Indigenous Affairs at the Macdonald-Laurier Institute. A Fellow of the Royal Society of Canada, Coates’ extensive research and publications have shaped national discourse on Indigenous sovereignty, economic development, and government policy.
Mark Dokis
Mark Dokis is a member of the Dokis First Nation in Northeastern Ontario and was recently appointed to the First Nations Procurement Authority as a Board Director by the National Aboriginal Capital Corporations Association (NACCA). He graduated with honours from Laurentian University with a Bachelor of Arts in geography. He went on to earn certificates in economic development and, business management, board and trust administration. Mark has over 35 years of experience in the Indigenous economic, business, procurement, and financial services fields. Mark is a Trustee with the Okikendawt Hydro and Dokis First Nation Community Trust to ensure the long-term sustainability of the Trust for the benefit of members of the Dokis First Nation and is a Board Director with the National Aboriginal Trust Officers Association (NATOA) that is committed to supporting First Nations efficiently establish, manage, and operate community trusts. In his free time, Mark enjoys staying at his cottage on Lake Nipissing, hunting, fishing, and curling.
Leslie Jackson
Leslie Jackson is the Head of Corporate Affairs for Block in Canada, where she co-led the company’s private investment in NACCA’s Indigenous Growth Fund. In her role, she advocates for increasing access to the economy in partnership with community organizations, working to expand opportunity across the country. A relentless problem solver, Leslie thrives at the intersection of financial services and technology, creating unexpected opportunities for more people.
John Johnstone
John is based in Victoria, BC, and is currently on a unique co-managed assignment between the Council for the Advancement of Native Development Officers (Cando) and Public Services and Procurement Canada (PSPC). He is focused on creating more opportunities for meaningful collaboration and to increase Indigenous community and business participation in federal procurement.
While utilizing over 25 years of experience in the federal government, John’s role is to assist Indigenous Economic Development Officers and communities navigate federal procurement opportunities. At the same time, John is also assisting the Government of Canada improve engagement efforts that support Indigenous community economic development.
John holds a Bachelor of Commerce from Saint Mary’s University; a Certificate in Project Management & Strategy Leadership from the University of British Columbia and he is a certified Project Management Professional.
Sarah MacNeil
Sarah MacNeil is the Senior Manager of Strategic Partnerships and Investor Relations for the Indigenous Growth Fund (IGF), a $153 million investment fund supporting economic growth for Indigenous communities in Canada. She leads external partnerships, investor relations—including engagements with the Government of Canada—governance, and communications.
Before joining IGF, Sarah played a key role in operationalizing the Community Forward Fund Assistance Corp, Canada’s first non-profit registered fund manager, where she spent seven years supporting financing solutions for non-profits, charities, and social enterprises.
She holds a Bachelor of Arts in English Literature from Carleton University.
Shannin Metatawabin
Shannin Metatawabin is Cree/Inninow from the Peetabeck Community of the Mushkegowuk Nation and is the father of four children.
He is CEO of the National Aboriginal Capital Corporations Association (NACCA), an organization representing a national network of 58 Indigenous Financial Institutions that spur economic growth through loans to small and medium-sized Indigenous businesses. Informed by his vision of Indigenous self-reliance, Shannin has increased support to the Indigenous lending network by over half a billion dollars during his tenure at NACCA. He is firmly grounded in his Cree worldview and language and has served as an entrepreneur, commercial lender, business/community developer, and management consultant, assisting with well-over 300 Indigenous business start-ups and expansions.
Shannin is a tireless advocate for meaningful economic reconciliation, creating investment vehicles such as the Indigenous Growth Fund and Indigenous Prosperity Foundation to connect private and philanthropic investors with Indigenous projects. Prior to joining NACCA, he served as Manager of the Aboriginal Affairs and Sustainability with DeBeers and Executive Director of the Ontario First Nations Technical Services Corporation.
M. Shannin Metatawabin est Cri/Inninow issu de la communauté Peetabeck de la Nation Mushkegowuk et père de quatre enfants.
Il est président directeur général de l’Association nationale des sociétés autochtones de financement (NACCA), une organisation nationale regroupant un réseau de 58 institutions financières autochtones dont la mission est de stimuler la croissance économique, grâce à des prêts commerciaux aux petites et moyennes entreprises autochtones. Guidé par sa vision d’autodétermination, Shannin a ainsi contribué au soutien du réseau et à le faire progresser de plus d’un demi-milliard de dollars au cours de son mandat à NACCA. Fermement enraciné dans sa vision du monde et sa langue crie, il a tour à tour été entrepreneur, prêteur commercial, promoteur d’entreprises communautaires et consultant en gestion, contribuant ainsi à plus de 300 démarrages et expansions d’entreprises autochtones.
Shannin est un défenseur infatigable d’une réconciliation économique significative, en créant des véhicules d’investissement tels que le Fonds de croissance autochtone et la Fondation pour la prospérité autochtone afin de mettre en relation des investisseurs privés et philanthropiques avec des projets autochtones. Avant de se joindre à la NACCA, il a été directeur des affaires autochtones et de la durabilité chez DeBeers et directeur exécutif de la Société des services techniques des Premières nations de l’Ontario.
Michael Mills
Michael Mills became Associate Deputy Minister of Public Services and Procurement Canada (PSPC) in December 2023.
As PSPC’s Reconciliation Champion, Michael supports the Department’s commitment to advancing reconciliation and increasing Indigenous participation in federal procurement.
Michael recently became Associate Deputy Minister Champion for the Universities of Regina and Saskatchewan. In this role, Michael works to strengthen collaboration between the Public Service and the universities by aligning areas of mutual interest such as research needs, providing content expertise, and engaging with key campus partners.
Prior to his appointment as Associate Deputy Minister, Michael held several leadership roles at PSPC, most recently serving as Assistant Deputy Minister, Procurement Branch. Michael has instituted several components of strategic branch leadership, along with departmental and federal transformation. He has led large complex procurement projects, such as high-frequency rail and the Canadian Dental Care Plan while remaining focused on ensuring that PSPC’s mandate commitments and corporate priorities were followed, in the areas of greening, reconciliation, and diversity and inclusion.
In prior years, Michael assisted with the Department’s contribution to the government’s pandemic response and served as Associate Assistant Deputy Minister, Procurement Branch, and Associate Assistant Deputy Minister, Real Property Services.
Michael also worked as Vice-President of Investment for a federal Crown corporation called PPP Canada, where Michael and his team helped clients from all levels of government to structure public-private partnership transactions and to implement successful public-private partnership procurement strategies.
Prior to working at PPP Canada, Michael held various positions with Crown-Indigenous Relations and Northern Affairs Canada, the Department of Finance Canada and Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada.
Michael holds a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science and Economics from the University of Regina and a Master of Arts in Economics from Queen’s University.
Terri Lynn Morrison
Terri Lynn Morrison is a proud Mi’gmaq woman from Listuguj, Quebec, walking in two worlds to build strong relationships between Indigenous communities, industry, and government. As the National Program Director, Terri Lynn is responsible for the development and successful implementation of innovative programs and partnerships to grow knowledge assets.
Terri Lynn has spent over two decades advancing Indigenous-led solutions in clean energy, economic development, and reconciliation. She was a driving force behind the 150 MW Mesgi’g Ugju’s’n Wind Farm, a landmark project that proved what is possible when Indigenous leadership is at the heart of decision-making. Her contributions earned her the Excellence in Human Resource Management award, and she continues to champion economic sovereignty for Indigenous Nations.
A mentor at heart, she has supported over 120 emerging leaders through Indigenous Clean Energy (ICE), ensuring that the next generation is equipped to carry this work forward. She is also recognized as one of #WOMENLEADINGCLEANTECH, honouring her impact on sustainability and innovation.
Currently pursuing an MBA in Community Economic Development at Cape Breton University, Terri Lynn continues to build bridges, create space for Indigenous leadership, and ensure that research and innovation reflect the strength, resilience, and knowledge of Indigenous Peoples.
Michelle Okere
Michelle Okere is a Métis-Cree leader dedicated to community empowerment and social change. As the Executive Director of the Indigenous Prosperity Foundation, she focuses on fostering economic growth and opportunities for Indigenous entrepreneurs.
Recently completing her Executive MBA in the Indigenous Business Leadership Program at the Beedie School of Business, she is committed to continuous learning and empowering Indigenous communities.
In 2021, Michelle co-founded the REET Institute, which focuses on financial literacy for high school aged youth. Additionally, she serves as Chair of PolicyWise for Children & Families, Chair of the Truth & Reconciliation Committee for YWCA Edmonton and is a member of the University of Alberta Senate.
Michelle’s contributions have been recognized through awards such as Edify Magazine’s Top 40 Under 40, the Deputy Minister’s Award for Innovation, and the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee Medal.
Magnolia Perron
Magnolia Perron is the Director of Strategy and Partnerships at the National Aboriginal Capital Corporations Association (NACCA), where she is dedicated to advancing Indigenous economic development. She holds a Master's in Indigenous Nationhood from the University of Victoria and a Graduate Diploma in Indigenous Policy and Administration from Carleton University. Magnolia is a champion for Indigenous entrepreneurship and economic growth, with extensive experience in advocacy, research, policy, and program development, having worked with numerous Indigenous non- profit organizations.
Magnolia is from Tyendinaga Mohawk Territory and a proud member of the Mohawks of the Bay of Quinte. She has been recognized as a 2024 Ottawa Business Journal and Ottawa Board of Trade Forty Under 40 recipient, honoring her leadership and impact in the business and Indigenous communities. She is also an active contributor to various Indigenous Advisory Committees, including for companies such as TELUS. Magnolia is committed to creating opportunities for Indigenous communities and leaders, and continues to inspire positive change through her work and leadership.
Senator Paul Prosper
Paul Prosper is a Mi’kmaq lawyer with more than 25 years of experience in Indigenous legal issues ranging from project management, to First Nation land use and occupation, to governance and community development.
A lifelong advocate for the rights of the Mi’kmaq people, Mr. Prosper is the former Chief of the Paqtnkek (Afton) Mi’kmaw Nation. In 2020, he was elected Assembly of First Nations’ (AFN) Regional Chief for Newfoundland and Nova Scotia, representing the collective interests of 17 Mi’kmaw First Nations in Newfoundland and Nova Scotia and over 600 First Nations across Canada.
Mr. Prosper has served on several boards and committees, including the boards of the Atlantic Policy Congress of First Nations Chiefs Secretariat, the Atlantic First Nations Water Authority, and Mi’kmaw Kina’matnewey as well as the Eastern Door L’nuk Lawyers Group, Ta’n Etli-tpi’tmk Association, and the AFN Chiefs Committee on Child and Family Services. From 2010 to 2013, he taught Mi’kmaq governance and Aboriginal and treaty rights at Cape Breton University.
In 2020, Mr. Prosper was inducted as a member of the Bertha Wilson Honour Society at the Dalhousie University Schulich School of Law in recognition of his exceptional service to the legal profession and community. He was also named Wika’paltultimk (Counsellor) for the L’nuk People by the Eastern Door L’nuk Lawyers Group in recognition of his outstanding service to Indigenous Peoples in the legal profession.
Mr. Prosper holds a Bachelor of Laws from Dalhousie University and a Bachelor of Arts (Honours) from Cape Breton University.
Bobbie Racette
Bobbie Racette is a trailblazing Indigenous Métis-Cree 2SLGBTQIA+ entrepreneur, founder, and CEO of Virtual Gurus and VG OnDemand. Bobbie is also the inaugural Board Chair of the indigenous Prosperity Foundation. She made history as Canada’s first Indigenous woman to secure Series A funding, creating over 800 opportunities for marginalized professionals while driving innovation in the tech industry. In 2024, she became the inaugural chair of the Indigenous Prosperity Foundation, championing economic empowerment for Indigenous entrepreneurs across Canada. Through her leadership, Bobbie is redefining entrepreneurship by fostering inclusion, breaking systemic barriers, and inspiring future generations to embrace resilience and innovation.
Stan Wesley
For over 30 years, Stan has engaged and entertained audiences with his unique style of presentations, keynotes, emcee and facilitation services. Working at the local, regional, provincial and national levels, he speaks on a variety of issues with a focus on celebrating success and advancing good, healthy relations among Indigenous and non-Indigenous peoples. With his high-energy, sincere, professional approach, he is considered by many to be one of the top speakers in the country today. Stan currently lives in Six Nations Territory with his beautiful wife, Mandy, and their incredible daughters Maya and Tenona.
Anthony Wingham
Anthony Wingham is a seasoned entrepreneur and advocate for sustainable business practices. With a background in hospitality and business management from BCIT, UBC, and UVIC, and additional training at Tuck School of Business, he founded Nuez Acres®, a unique Indigenous owned pecan oil waterless beauty line. Committed to cultural preservation, he also runs Metisprint.ca, promoting Métis heritage through sustainable apparel. Anthony serves on several boards, including the BC Indigenous Housing and MNBC Métis Business Advisory Board, and speaks to students across Canada about Indigenous culture and entrepreneurship. He currently serves on NACCA’s Indigenous Youth Business Advisory Council.
NACCA 2025 Forum
SPONSORS
Nacca Forum
Presenters
Discover an incredible lineup of speakers
2025
Presenters
Elaine Chambers
Elaine is a proud citizen of the Champagne & Aishihik First Nation and of the Crow Clan. Over the past Thirty-Seven years Elaine has been employed with däna Näye Ventures and currently serves as Chief Executive Officer. She has served as a valued member of NACCA’s Board of Directors, contributing her deep understanding of the challenges and opportunities facing Indigenous entrepreneurs and communities.
Elaine’s vision and commitment to collaboration will guide NACCA into an exciting new chapter as we continue to empower Indigenous entrepreneurs through the Indigenous Financial Institutions (IFI’s) network and work toward Indigenous Prosperity.
Ken Coates
Ken Coates is a distinguished Canadian historian and scholar specializing in Indigenous rights, northern development, and Canadian history. He holds a PhD in history from the University of British Columbia and has served in key academic roles, including Canada Research Chair at the University of Saskatchewan and Dean of Arts at the University of Waterloo. Currently, he is the Program Chair of Indigenous Governance at Yukon University and Director of Indigenous Affairs at the Macdonald-Laurier Institute. A Fellow of the Royal Society of Canada, Coates’ extensive research and publications have shaped national discourse on Indigenous sovereignty, economic development, and government policy.
Mark Dokis
Mark Dokis is a member of the Dokis First Nation in Northeastern Ontario and was recently appointed to the First Nations Procurement Authority as a Board Director by the National Aboriginal Capital Corporations Association (NACCA). He graduated with honours from Laurentian University with a Bachelor of Arts in geography. He went on to earn certificates in economic development and, business management, board and trust administration. Mark has over 35 years of experience in the Indigenous economic, business, procurement, and financial services fields. Mark is a Trustee with the Okikendawt Hydro and Dokis First Nation Community Trust to ensure the long-term sustainability of the Trust for the benefit of members of the Dokis First Nation and is a Board Director with the National Aboriginal Trust Officers Association (NATOA) that is committed to supporting First Nations efficiently establish, manage, and operate community trusts. In his free time, Mark enjoys staying at his cottage on Lake Nipissing, hunting, fishing, and curling.
Leslie Jackson
Leslie Jackson is the Head of Corporate Affairs for Block in Canada, where she co-led the company’s private investment in NACCA’s Indigenous Growth Fund. In her role, she advocates for increasing access to the economy in partnership with community organizations, working to expand opportunity across the country. A relentless problem solver, Leslie thrives at the intersection of financial services and technology, creating unexpected opportunities for more people.
John Johnstone
John is based in Victoria, BC, and is currently on a unique co-managed assignment between the Council for the Advancement of Native Development Officers (Cando) and Public Services and Procurement Canada (PSPC). He is focused on creating more opportunities for meaningful collaboration and to increase Indigenous community and business participation in federal procurement.
While utilizing over 25 years of experience in the federal government, John’s role is to assist Indigenous Economic Development Officers and communities navigate federal procurement opportunities. At the same time, John is also assisting the Government of Canada improve engagement efforts that support Indigenous community economic development.
John holds a Bachelor of Commerce from Saint Mary’s University; a Certificate in Project Management & Strategy Leadership from the University of British Columbia and he is a certified Project Management Professional.
Sarah MacNeil
Sarah MacNeil is the Senior Manager of Strategic Partnerships and Investor Relations for the Indigenous Growth Fund (IGF), a $153 million investment fund supporting economic growth for Indigenous communities in Canada. She leads external partnerships, investor relations—including engagements with the Government of Canada—governance, and communications.
Before joining IGF, Sarah played a key role in operationalizing the Community Forward Fund Assistance Corp, Canada’s first non-profit registered fund manager, where she spent seven years supporting financing solutions for non-profits, charities, and social enterprises.
She holds a Bachelor of Arts in English Literature from Carleton University.
Shannin Metatawabin
Shannin Metatawabin is Cree/Inninow from the Peetabeck Community of the Mushkegowuk Nation and is the father of four children.
He is CEO of the National Aboriginal Capital Corporations Association (NACCA), an organization representing a national network of 58 Indigenous Financial Institutions that spur economic growth through loans to small and medium-sized Indigenous businesses. Informed by his vision of Indigenous self-reliance, Shannin has increased support to the Indigenous lending network by over half a billion dollars during his tenure at NACCA. He is firmly grounded in his Cree worldview and language and has served as an entrepreneur, commercial lender, business/community developer, and management consultant, assisting with well-over 300 Indigenous business start-ups and expansions.
Shannin is a tireless advocate for meaningful economic reconciliation, creating investment vehicles such as the Indigenous Growth Fund and Indigenous Prosperity Foundation to connect private and philanthropic investors with Indigenous projects. Prior to joining NACCA, he served as Manager of the Aboriginal Affairs and Sustainability with DeBeers and Executive Director of the Ontario First Nations Technical Services Corporation.
M. Shannin Metatawabin est Cri/Inninow issu de la communauté Peetabeck de la Nation Mushkegowuk et père de quatre enfants.
Il est président directeur général de l’Association nationale des sociétés autochtones de financement (NACCA), une organisation nationale regroupant un réseau de 58 institutions financières autochtones dont la mission est de stimuler la croissance économique, grâce à des prêts commerciaux aux petites et moyennes entreprises autochtones. Guidé par sa vision d’autodétermination, Shannin a ainsi contribué au soutien du réseau et à le faire progresser de plus d’un demi-milliard de dollars au cours de son mandat à NACCA. Fermement enraciné dans sa vision du monde et sa langue crie, il a tour à tour été entrepreneur, prêteur commercial, promoteur d’entreprises communautaires et consultant en gestion, contribuant ainsi à plus de 300 démarrages et expansions d’entreprises autochtones.
Shannin est un défenseur infatigable d’une réconciliation économique significative, en créant des véhicules d’investissement tels que le Fonds de croissance autochtone et la Fondation pour la prospérité autochtone afin de mettre en relation des investisseurs privés et philanthropiques avec des projets autochtones. Avant de se joindre à la NACCA, il a été directeur des affaires autochtones et de la durabilité chez DeBeers et directeur exécutif de la Société des services techniques des Premières nations de l’Ontario.
Michael Mills
Michael Mills became Associate Deputy Minister of Public Services and Procurement Canada (PSPC) in December 2023.
As PSPC’s Reconciliation Champion, Michael supports the Department’s commitment to advancing reconciliation and increasing Indigenous participation in federal procurement.
Michael recently became Associate Deputy Minister Champion for the Universities of Regina and Saskatchewan. In this role, Michael works to strengthen collaboration between the Public Service and the universities by aligning areas of mutual interest such as research needs, providing content expertise, and engaging with key campus partners.
Prior to his appointment as Associate Deputy Minister, Michael held several leadership roles at PSPC, most recently serving as Assistant Deputy Minister, Procurement Branch. Michael has instituted several components of strategic branch leadership, along with departmental and federal transformation. He has led large complex procurement projects, such as high-frequency rail and the Canadian Dental Care Plan while remaining focused on ensuring that PSPC’s mandate commitments and corporate priorities were followed, in the areas of greening, reconciliation, and diversity and inclusion.
In prior years, Michael assisted with the Department’s contribution to the government’s pandemic response and served as Associate Assistant Deputy Minister, Procurement Branch, and Associate Assistant Deputy Minister, Real Property Services.
Michael also worked as Vice-President of Investment for a federal Crown corporation called PPP Canada, where Michael and his team helped clients from all levels of government to structure public-private partnership transactions and to implement successful public-private partnership procurement strategies.
Prior to working at PPP Canada, Michael held various positions with Crown-Indigenous Relations and Northern Affairs Canada, the Department of Finance Canada and Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada.
Michael holds a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science and Economics from the University of Regina and a Master of Arts in Economics from Queen’s University.
Terri Lynn Morrison
Terri Lynn Morrison is a proud Mi’gmaq woman from Listuguj, Quebec, walking in two worlds to build strong relationships between Indigenous communities, industry, and government. As the National Program Director, Terri Lynn is responsible for the development and successful implementation of innovative programs and partnerships to grow knowledge assets.
Terri Lynn has spent over two decades advancing Indigenous-led solutions in clean energy, economic development, and reconciliation. She was a driving force behind the 150 MW Mesgi’g Ugju’s’n Wind Farm, a landmark project that proved what is possible when Indigenous leadership is at the heart of decision-making. Her contributions earned her the Excellence in Human Resource Management award, and she continues to champion economic sovereignty for Indigenous Nations.
A mentor at heart, she has supported over 120 emerging leaders through Indigenous Clean Energy (ICE), ensuring that the next generation is equipped to carry this work forward. She is also recognized as one of #WOMENLEADINGCLEANTECH, honouring her impact on sustainability and innovation.
Currently pursuing an MBA in Community Economic Development at Cape Breton University, Terri Lynn continues to build bridges, create space for Indigenous leadership, and ensure that research and innovation reflect the strength, resilience, and knowledge of Indigenous Peoples.
Michelle Okere
Michelle Okere is a Métis-Cree leader dedicated to community empowerment and social change. As the Executive Director of the Indigenous Prosperity Foundation, she focuses on fostering economic growth and opportunities for Indigenous entrepreneurs.
Recently completing her Executive MBA in the Indigenous Business Leadership Program at the Beedie School of Business, she is committed to continuous learning and empowering Indigenous communities.
In 2021, Michelle co-founded the REET Institute, which focuses on financial literacy for high school aged youth. Additionally, she serves as Chair of PolicyWise for Children & Families, Chair of the Truth & Reconciliation Committee for YWCA Edmonton and is a member of the University of Alberta Senate.
Michelle’s contributions have been recognized through awards such as Edify Magazine’s Top 40 Under 40, the Deputy Minister’s Award for Innovation, and the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee Medal.
Magnolia Perron
Magnolia Perron is the Director of Strategy and Partnerships at the National Aboriginal Capital Corporations Association (NACCA), where she is dedicated to advancing Indigenous economic development. She holds a Master's in Indigenous Nationhood from the University of Victoria and a Graduate Diploma in Indigenous Policy and Administration from Carleton University. Magnolia is a champion for Indigenous entrepreneurship and economic growth, with extensive experience in advocacy, research, policy, and program development, having worked with numerous Indigenous non- profit organizations.
Magnolia is from Tyendinaga Mohawk Territory and a proud member of the Mohawks of the Bay of Quinte. She has been recognized as a 2024 Ottawa Business Journal and Ottawa Board of Trade Forty Under 40 recipient, honoring her leadership and impact in the business and Indigenous communities. She is also an active contributor to various Indigenous Advisory Committees, including for companies such as TELUS. Magnolia is committed to creating opportunities for Indigenous communities and leaders, and continues to inspire positive change through her work and leadership.
Senator Paul Prosper
Paul Prosper is a Mi’kmaq lawyer with more than 25 years of experience in Indigenous legal issues ranging from project management, to First Nation land use and occupation, to governance and community development.
A lifelong advocate for the rights of the Mi’kmaq people, Mr. Prosper is the former Chief of the Paqtnkek (Afton) Mi’kmaw Nation. In 2020, he was elected Assembly of First Nations’ (AFN) Regional Chief for Newfoundland and Nova Scotia, representing the collective interests of 17 Mi’kmaw First Nations in Newfoundland and Nova Scotia and over 600 First Nations across Canada.
Mr. Prosper has served on several boards and committees, including the boards of the Atlantic Policy Congress of First Nations Chiefs Secretariat, the Atlantic First Nations Water Authority, and Mi’kmaw Kina’matnewey as well as the Eastern Door L’nuk Lawyers Group, Ta’n Etli-tpi’tmk Association, and the AFN Chiefs Committee on Child and Family Services. From 2010 to 2013, he taught Mi’kmaq governance and Aboriginal and treaty rights at Cape Breton University.
In 2020, Mr. Prosper was inducted as a member of the Bertha Wilson Honour Society at the Dalhousie University Schulich School of Law in recognition of his exceptional service to the legal profession and community. He was also named Wika’paltultimk (Counsellor) for the L’nuk People by the Eastern Door L’nuk Lawyers Group in recognition of his outstanding service to Indigenous Peoples in the legal profession.
Mr. Prosper holds a Bachelor of Laws from Dalhousie University and a Bachelor of Arts (Honours) from Cape Breton University.
Bobbie Racette
Bobbie Racette is a trailblazing Indigenous Métis-Cree 2SLGBTQIA+ entrepreneur, founder, and CEO of Virtual Gurus and VG OnDemand. Bobbie is also the inaugural Board Chair of the indigenous Prosperity Foundation. She made history as Canada’s first Indigenous woman to secure Series A funding, creating over 800 opportunities for marginalized professionals while driving innovation in the tech industry. In 2024, she became the inaugural chair of the Indigenous Prosperity Foundation, championing economic empowerment for Indigenous entrepreneurs across Canada. Through her leadership, Bobbie is redefining entrepreneurship by fostering inclusion, breaking systemic barriers, and inspiring future generations to embrace resilience and innovation.
Stan Wesley
For over 30 years, Stan has engaged and entertained audiences with his unique style of presentations, keynotes, emcee and facilitation services. Working at the local, regional, provincial and national levels, he speaks on a variety of issues with a focus on celebrating success and advancing good, healthy relations among Indigenous and non-Indigenous peoples. With his high-energy, sincere, professional approach, he is considered by many to be one of the top speakers in the country today. Stan currently lives in Six Nations Territory with his beautiful wife, Mandy, and their incredible daughters Maya and Tenona.
Anthony Wingham
Anthony Wingham is a seasoned entrepreneur and advocate for sustainable business practices. With a background in hospitality and business management from BCIT, UBC, and UVIC, and additional training at Tuck School of Business, he founded Nuez Acres®, a unique Indigenous owned pecan oil waterless beauty line. Committed to cultural preservation, he also runs Metisprint.ca, promoting Métis heritage through sustainable apparel. Anthony serves on several boards, including the BC Indigenous Housing and MNBC Métis Business Advisory Board, and speaks to students across Canada about Indigenous culture and entrepreneurship. He currently serves on NACCA’s Indigenous Youth Business Advisory Council.
NACCA 2025 Forum
SPONSORS
