Presenters
NACCA Forum
Presenters
Discover an incredible lineup of inspiring speakers
2026
Presenters
Amanda Anderson
Amanda Anderson is Métis/Ojibwe and the co-founder of Mashkiki Lifestyle & Co., a 100% Indigenous woman-owned home fragrance company based in British Columbia. With over 10 years of experience in sales and a Chartered Insurance Professional (CIP) designation, Amanda brings both business expertise and heart into everything she builds.
A proud mother in a blended family of five children, Amanda co-founded Mashkiki Lifestyle & Co. alongside her sister Monicque as a way to reconnect—with each other, their culture, and their purpose.
Raised in the foster care system without access to ceremony or cultural teachings, Mashkiki was created as a pathway to healing, identity, and connection. What began as a creative outlet has grown into a purpose-driven brand focused on creating products that evoke comfort, belonging, and a true sense of home.
Through their journey, Amanda and Monicque hope to inspire other Indigenous and Metis women—showing that no matter your starting point, it is possible to build something meaningful. They are committed to being part of a stronger, more connected future, because they believe Indigenous women are stronger together.
Pheroz M. Austin
Pheroz leads TD Bank’s regional strategy for Indigenous Banking for Eastern Canada. With a role focused on expanding existing relationships and building new connections in the Communities he serves, he builds on the Bank’s strengths of Indigenous employee recruitment, colleague awareness, and service to Indigenous business and governments with strategy and purpose.
Prior to joining TD’s Indigenous Banking Group, Pheroz held several senior leadership roles in commercial credit adjudication, business development and compliance spanning more than 20 years.
He is active in the community, has served on Foundation Boards and is a passionate ally making an impact in the areas of financial literacy and access to banking for Indigenous Peoples.
Keenan Beavis
Keenan Beavis is an award-winning Métis entrepreneur, author and the founder of Longhouse. Through his branding and marketing company, he’s helped more than 850 busy leaders across 92+ industries conquer their to-do lists, win back their time, and make their impact. Longhouse has consistently been recognized as one of Canada’s highest-rated agencies.
Keenan blends real-world experience and creativity to solve complex business problems. His recent work focuses on how people search and how you can become the answer on AI engines such as ChatGPT and Google’s Gemini.
His popular AEO / GEO / AI SEO framework (and upcoming book of the same name), AnswerMapping, outlines the methods Keenan and the Longhouse team use daily to help organizations stay visible, credible, and competitive as search continues to evolve.
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.
Dominique Collin
Dominique Collin has served as senior advisor with NACCA, ABSCAN, and Ulnooweg on housing finance issues. He will continue to coordinate research, product development, and housing ecosystems modernization efforts. He has more than thirty years of experience in First Nations access to capital issues including micro-credit, business financing, community banking, risk capital, and housing and infrastructure financing. His focus has been on assisting innovative financing solutions developed by First Nation financial institutions that integrate sustainability and financial viability.
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.
Darion Ducharme
Darion Ducharme is the Founder and CEO of Teqare, an Indigenous-owned education and technology training organization based in Winnipeg, Manitoba. Since launching in 2021, Darion has led the delivery of cyber safety, digital literacy, financial literacy, and AI awareness workshops to hundreds of schools and over 80 First Nations across Canada, empowering thousands of youth, adults, and elders to navigate today’s digital world with confidence.
His work has been featured in Global News, CBC, SAY Magazine, and The Globe and Mail, and he is a keynote speaker at national Indigenous and education events. In 2025, Darion was recognized with the Young Indigenous Entrepreneur of the Year award by the Canadian Council for Indigenous Business, highlighting his leadership, impact, and commitment to empowering communities through education and technology.
Anna Jane Edwards
Anna-Jane Edwards is the Manukura for Amotai. She is driven by an unwavering belief that every child has the right to thrive in Aotearoa. This has led her to explore how economics, indigenous knowledge systems, co-design and systems thinking can be brought together to disrupt the conditions preventing all people from living full and prosperous lives.
Her roles in health and local government over the past 15 years have explored this concept, eventually leading her to co-found Amotai in 2018 where she has recently returned as Manukura.
Anna-Jane believes that supplier diversity, where organisations buy more goods and services from diverse suppliers, is one of the biggest opportunities to grow meaningful economic step-change for Māori and Pasifika.
Anna-Jane shares her home time between raising a resilient, happy, socially, and environmentally conscious little boy and participating at a governance level on a number of organisations including the New Zealand Drug Foundation and Hawaiki Hou Sport New Zealand.
Trina Fauchoux
Trina Fauchoux is a Métis artisan from the heart of the Batoche region, born and raised in Duck Lake, Saskatchewan. Now residing in St. Louis with her family, Trina is a proud mother of five.
She began beading alongside her daughters during the COVID-19 pandemic as a creative outlet, which quickly grew into a lasting passion. Together, they continue to create handcrafted pieces that reflect their culture, creativity, and dedication to the craft.
In addition to her artistic work, Trina is employed full-time as an Estate Payout Advisor with a major credit union in Saskatchewan. She and her family have also shared their work at community events, including Back to Batoche Days, and continue to engage with customers through their Facebook page, Mama Treens Beading.
Trina has thoughtfully handcrafted each lanyard for the NACCA Indigenous Prosperity Forum over the past several years, and we hope you enjoy them.
Christine Genier
Christine Genier is a Woman of the Wolf Clan and a citizen of the Ta’an Kwäch’än Council. She is a broadcaster, journalist, writer, poet, performer, and apprentice language and culture keeper. Since 1995 Christine has been navigating a career that spans northern theatre, journalism, broadcasting, writing, and public speaking.
She has always done this proudly bringing to the work her Indigenous teachings. In her career and public life, she has witnessed the birth of the conversation around “Decolonization” and promises of “Reconciliation.” In June of 2020, Christine made national headlines when she quit her job as host of CBC Yukon Morning, live and on the air with a four-minute statement that included an introduction in her traditional language, in response to what she felt were unrecognized biases which permeate the mainstream media. In December 2020, Christine was featured in Chatelaine Magazine as one of “Chatelaine’s 20 Women of the Year.” (Pacinthe Mattar)
Since 2020, Christine has devotes most of her time to language recovery and traditional culture work and exploring the Indigenous space in popular culture with honesty and humor. She has returned to live theatre with works in progress underway with Yukon Digital Theatre and Nakai Theatre in Whitehorse. She shares a lived experience that spans over four decades of bridging culture and recovering the Indigenous Space with those prepared to engage.
Chief Lance Haymond
Mr. Lance Haymond is Algonquin/Anishinabe from Kebaowek First Nation, a community established in the Temiscamingue region of Quebec. He is currently serving his tenth term as Chief of his community.
Chief Haymond has spent a large part of his career on advocacy for more housing to meet his community needs, the region of Quebec and those of all First Nations across the country.
He is heavily involved at the regional and national levels as he is the Chief portfolio holder, responsible of the Housing and Infrastructure file for the Assembly of First Nations of Quebec-Labrador (AFNQL) and the Co-chair of the national Chief Committee on Housing and Infrastructure (CCoHI) at the Assembly of First Nations. He also served as Manager of Aboriginal On Reserve Housing Programs for Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC).
Amy Jackson
Amy Jackson is an artist, entrepreneur, service designer, and facilitator from Opaskwayak Cree Nation. She is the Founder of Nativelovenotes, a creative business rooted in storytelling and connection, and the Director of Mittohnee Pogo’ohtah, the Indigenous Entrepreneurship Project at Red River College Polytech in Winnipeg.
Amy’s work focuses on supporting Indigenous entrepreneurs through culturally grounded innovation, mentorship, and service design. She is passionate about creating environments where Indigenous founders can access resources, build confidence, and develop sustainable businesses that reflect community values and priorities.
As a member of the NACCA Indigenous Youth Business Advisory Council (2024–present), Amy contributes to national conversations about Indigenous entrepreneurship and economic empowerment. Through her facilitation and leadership, she brings together community, creativity, and strategy to help entrepreneurs transform ideas into meaningful ventures with lasting impact.
Jolene Johnson
Jolene Johnson is a proud Wolastoqiyik entrepreneur from Neqotkuk First Nation in New Brunswick, as well as a devoted wife, mother, and grandmother. Over the past 25 years, she has been on a deeply personal journey of reconnecting with her Indigenous identity, culture, and traditional knowledge—an experience that continues to shape both her life and her work.
In 2018, Jolene founded Wabanaki Maple, a premium, Indigenous-owned brand specializing in value-added maple syrup products rooted in tradition and storytelling. Under her leadership, the company has grown into a nationally recognized brand, with products reaching customers across Canada and expanding into international markets.
Jolene’s entrepreneurial journey has been marked by both perseverance and purpose. She has been recognized with several prestigious honours, including the Resilience Award from Opportunities New Brunswick, the Female Entrepreneur of the Year award from Ulnooweg Development Group, the Established Entrepreneur Award from Joint Economic Development Initiative, and the Micro-Business Award from RBC Canadian Women of Influence Awards.
Beyond business, Jolene is deeply committed to community and cultural revitalization. Through her work, she strives to create meaningful opportunities that reconnect people to the land, to traditional teachings, and to one another. Her vision extends beyond entrepreneurship—she is building pathways for sustainable growth, cultural preservation, and Indigenous prosperity for future generations.
Jolene’s story is one of resilience, leadership, and purpose—grounded in culture and driven by a commitment to community.
Harlan Kingfisher
Harlan Kingfisher is the CEO and Founder of Smudge The Blades Apparel, an Indigenous-owned clothing brand inspired by the deep connection between First Nations culture and hockey. A proud member of Sturgeon Lake First Nation, Harlan created the brand to celebrate Indigenous hockey, share cultural stories, and give back to community supporting youth with equipment and opportunities to play the game. Through powerful digital storytelling, he has also built a strong following on TikTok, using his voice to amplify Indigenous pride, culture, and community.
Jennifer Laewetz
Jennifer Laewetz is a proud member of George Gordon First Nation in Saskatchewan, with deep roots in both First Nations and Métis communities. A nationally recognized voice in Indigenous governance and politics, she draws on experience in federal politics and her work as a business owner to help revitalize governance systems, bridge policy and community priorities, and ensure decisions lead to meaningful outcomes. Her insightful commentary is featured on television, radio, podcasts, and national media, including regular appearances on APTN National News and CBC Saskatchewan.
Jennifer Laewetz est une fière membre de la Première Nation de George Gordon, en Saskatchewan, et possède de profondes racines au sein des communautés des Premières Nations et métisses. Reconnue à l’échelle nationale comme une voix influente en gouvernance et en politique autochtones, elle met à profit son expérience en politique fédérale et comme entrepreneure pour revitaliser les systèmes de gouvernance, rapprocher les politiques des priorités communautaires et veiller à ce que les décisions aient des retombées concrètes. Ses analyses éclairées sont diffusées à la télévision, à la radio, dans des balados et dans les médias nationaux, notamment à APTN National News et à CBC Saskatchewan.
Martin Légaré
Martin Légaré has been with SOCCA since 2002 and is currently general manager of both ABSCAN and SOCCA. He played a key role in the creation of ABSCAN in 2005 and has been the main force behind its housing finance programming. He holds a bachelor’s degree in business administration and a certificate in commercial credit. Mr. Légaré is also a member of the Huron-Wendat Nation.
Nanaia Mahuta
Hon. Nanaia Mahuta is a senior Māori leader and former Member of the New Zealand Parliament having served 27years. She made history as the first wāhine (women) Māori to serve as Minister of Foreign Affairs and Māori Development. WIth nearly three decades of experience in government and a strong commitment to Indigenous rights, development, diplomacy, and social equity. Hon Mahuta is an Independent Director serving on a range of tribal governance boards.
She is affiliated with Waikato‑Maniapoto iwi (tribes) and is guided by Māori values and tikanga. Throughout her career, Hon. Mahuta has championed the role of Indigenous knowledge in shaping sustainable, inclusive futures. Her leadership contributed to advancing New Zealand’s work in inclusive trade, climate engagement, and Indigenous international collaboration. She is widely recognised for her long‑standing advocacy for Indigenous partnerships, intergenerational wellbeing, and upholding Te Tiriti o Waitangi.
Hon. Mahuta now serves as Project Lead for Tauhokohoko – Indigenous Trade and as an Honorary Professor at Te Kotahi Research Institute at the University of Waikato. In this roles, she continues to support Indigenous‑led solutions in global trade and sustainability, helping to bridge Indigenous wisdom with contemporary science and policy, and offering insights into inclusive, future‑focused systems.
Keith Matthew
Dedicated to fostering economic self-sufficiency for Indigenous communities, Keith Matthew’s roles as CEO of Seklep Business Services and Board Director of NACCA provide invaluable insights into economic development, governance, and community leadership.
Keith Matthew, a proud member of the Simpcw First Nation and Chair of NACCA, is a leader in Indigenous economic development with experience in journalism, governance, and industry partnerships. He helped establish Simpcw Resources Ltd. and serves on several national boards, while proudly being father to Gypsi and Jordan.
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.
Bill Murray
Bill Murray is a Mohawk of Kanehsatà:ke, and a bilingual senior leader with a distinguished record of building and guiding high‑performing international teams across private equity, M&A, and corporate finance. He is a strategic investor and partner with deep experience driving growth in financial services, agrifood, manufacturing, and healthcare.
As a member of the IGF board, Bill contributes extensive expertise in capital raising, financial forecasting, transaction structuring, due diligence, and stakeholder reporting. He currently serves as Director, Indigenous Markets – Institutional Asset Management at CIBC.
Amanda Muskego
Amanda Muskego is Denesųłiné from Cold Lake First Nations and a Business Services Officer with the Alberta Indian Investment Corporation (AIIC), supporting Indigenous youth through the Indigenous Youth Entrepreneur (IYE) Program. As a business owner and Indigenous youth entrepreneur, she brings lived experience and supports clients with business planning, financial literacy, and access to funding, while delivering workshops across First Nation communities.
She holds a Bachelor of Business Administration and will complete her MBA in Finance in June 2026. Amanda is passionate about empowering Indigenous youth and strengthening Indigenous entrepreneurship.
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 Masters 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.
Juan Carlos Reyes
Since assuming the presidency of the National Commission of Digital Assets of El Salvador in August 2023, Juan Carlos Reyes has turned a bold vision into a global benchmark. Starting from scratch, he built the world’s most successful digital assets regulatory framework—ranking #2 globally in its first year and achieving #1 in 2025. Under his leadership, El Salvador has established a fair, transparent, and innovative regulatory process, overseeing over $150 billion and attracting industry giants like Tether. In less than 18 months, he assembled an elite team of regulators—technology-savvy experts with over 60 years of combined experience in traditional financial supervision—proving that a solid foundation attracts excellence.
Born in El Salvador and raised in Canada, where he was educated along with studies in the United States, Juan Carlos holds a Bachelor’s degree in Physics and Mathematics, another in Computer Science, and a Master’s in Management from Harvard. With experience in Silicon Valley and 15 years leading a top-tier consulting firm in governance and blockchain, he is a global strategist. He recently became a Certified Cryptoasset Financial Crime Specialist through ACAMS and completed postgraduate studies in Cryptocurrencies at Universidad del CEMA in Argentina.
His vision transcends borders: he promotes a model without geographic barriers for investment and opportunity, sharing El Salvador’s success with the world through collaborative agreements across the Americas and the launch of the first Digital Assets Symposium (DAS) on April 29, 2025 (das.sv). Supporting the presidential vision of making El Salvador the best country in the world, Juan Carlos is working to position the region as a leader in innovation, strengthening global relationships and proving that this approach is a step in the right direction. His social commitment is evident in initiatives like raising over $3 million at age 21 to help rebuild a village in his home country.
Frank Richter
As the Managing Director of the Indigenous Growth Fund, Frank leads the team that has taken a concept for increasing access to capital for Indigenous Financial Institutions (IFIs) and the Indigenous businesses they finance to reality. Drawing on more than 10 years of experience in financial and public sectors as well as in-depth, data-driven analysis, Frank has methodically structured and built an institution-grade fund that has attracted $153M in committed capital that IFIs are accessing to expand their lending to Indigenous businesses in scope and volume.
During his time at the National Aboriginal Capital Corporations Association (NACCA) he has been instrumental to building and attracting government funding for new programs as well as building an analytics platform that drives the financial modelling of IFI lending activities and their economic impacts. He completed his Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees focusing on business, finance, and economic policy in both.
Kevin Rose
Kevin Rose is the Chief Strategy Officer at the National Aboriginal Capital Corporations Association (NACCA) in Ottawa. A member of the Mississaugas of the Credit First Nation, he has over 20 years of experience in economic and business development, working with First Nations, organizations, and government. Kevin has served as a Senior Business Development Officer, lecturer, and board director and previously owned Northern Approach, a business consulting firm. In 2017, he became the first First Nations president of the Economic Developers Association of Canada (EDAC). Holding a Bachelor of Arts and Bachelor of Education, he is also certified as a Professional Economic Developer (EcD) and Aboriginal Professional Administrator (PAED) the first First Nations individual to achieve both designations. An avid outdoorsman and sports coach, Kevin remains dedicated to Indigenous economic growth and self sufficiency.
Jill Ruep
Jill Ruep is the founder and creator of Ma Fii Lii Rasaad (“My Daughter’s Beads” in Michif), an Indigenous-led beading app and creative business rooted in Saskatchewan. A registered Métis citizen, Jill is committed to preserving Indigenous teachings, storytelling, and cultural creativity through traditional beadwork and modern technology.
Through Ma Fii Lii Rasaad, Jill is building a sustainable, culturally grounded business that weaves together technology, education, and hands-on creativity by developing a beading app centered entirely on Indigenous content. Built in partnership with computer science students, Ma Fii Lii Rasaad represents a meaningful collaboration that blends technical innovation with cultural guidance. Together, they are creating an accessible platform where users can design custom beading patterns while learning the stories, teachings, and cultural context carried within the work.
Ma Fii Lii Rasaad also offers a vendor market-ready business specializing in scalable beading kits for conferences, classrooms, and team-building experiences. She has facilitated workshops across Saskatchewan and shared her work at community events, powwows, and cultural gatherings.
Kate Russell
Kate Russell is a proud Awabakal woman from Lake Macquarie and is committed to empowering her community. Kate draws on her extensive experience working across public and community sectors and is driven by a desire to promote opportunities for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples – making sure to approach all programs, policies and initiatives through an intersectional lens. Kate is passionate about engaging Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people and communities to co-design programs and services using international best practices to make tangible changes in policy. As a consultant, Kate has worked across multiple policy areas to support the delivery of outcomes and community benefits, with a focus on people and culture programs. Prior to this, she held senior roles at the Department of Planning and Environment, where she oversaw the design and delivery of programs across a portfolio of agencies and over 15,000 staff.
Currently, Kate is the Chair of the Diversity Council Australia’s Indigenous External Advisory and a Director of the Committee for Sydney, as well as member of the inaugural Advisory Board for the ASEAN-Australia Centre (AAC). She previously served as a Director for Yilabara Solutions and Interrelate. In July 2023, she commenced her role as Chief Executive Officer at Supply Nation, the Australian leader in supplier diversity. Kate holds a Bachelor of International Studies (Distinction), an MBA and an Executive Masters of Public Administration.
Travis Seymour
CEO – First Nations Market Housing FundTravis Seymour, a Mohawk from the Mohawk Territory of Akwesasne, is an accomplished professional and trailblazer. As the first-ever First Nation CEO at the First Nations Market Housing Fund (FNMHF), he leads the organization from its headquarters in Akwesasne. Travis, an FCPA, FCGA, brings extensive expertise as Director of Finance and Administration for FNMHF since 2018. His career spans impactful roles with MNP LLP, the First Nations Financial Management Board, Aboriginal Healing Foundation, and the Mohawk Council of Akwesasne. Travis holds notable designations as a Certified Aboriginal Financial Manager and a Certified Government Audit Professional. Beyond his professional achievements, Travis enjoys outdoor activities like camping and fishing. His accomplishments and dedication make him a respected leader and role model for others in his community and beyond.
Donna St. Louis
Donna St. Louis is the National Lead for Indigenous Business at Export Development Canada (EDC), where she champions opportunities for Indigenous-owned companies to grow and compete in global markets. Of Nlaka’pamux Nation heritage and based on the traditional territories of the Sḵwx̱wú7mesh Úxwumixw in British Columbia, Donna has dedicated her career to Indigenous economic development, including supporting Indigenous entrepreneurs to access capital and financing through roles with the First Nations Finance Authority and Tale’awtxw Aboriginal Capital Corporation. She is recognized as a leader in advancing Indigenous participation in trade and business growth across Canada.
Relay Tangie
Relay holds a bachelor’s degree in Accounting, is a Certified General Accountant Ontario (CPA, CGA) and a fellow with the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA) UK. Her key strength has been the ability to bring finance and operations together, streamline, develop and implement sustainable processes that prepare organisations for growth and provide timely information used for decision making. Relay is a member of Toastmasters International, volunteers with Junior Achievement Ontario and mentors new migrants into becoming well integrated and functional members of their community.
Anthony Wingham
Anthony is a proud Métis entrepreneur and community leader driven by innovation, culture, and impact. He has studied project and business management at BCIT, UBC, and UVIC, and completed advanced training through Royal Roads University, the Canadian Marketing Association, and executive education at the Tuck School of Business at Dartmouth. Anthony now leads the growth of Nuez Acres, Canada’s only Indigenous pecan oil waterless beauty line, while also operating Metisprint, a sustainable apparel brand celebrating Métis culture. He serves as President of the Waceya Métis Society and contributes to multiple boards, while also advancing digital literacy and inspiring Indigenous youth across Canada through his work with Connected North.
Nacca Forum
Presenters
Discover an incredible lineup of speakers
2026
Presenters
Amanda Anderson
Amanda Anderson is Métis/Ojibwe and the co-founder of Mashkiki Lifestyle & Co., a 100% Indigenous woman-owned home fragrance company based in British Columbia. With over 10 years of experience in sales and a Chartered Insurance Professional (CIP) designation, Amanda brings both business expertise and heart into everything she builds.
A proud mother in a blended family of five children, Amanda co-founded Mashkiki Lifestyle & Co. alongside her sister Monicque as a way to reconnect—with each other, their culture, and their purpose.
Raised in the foster care system without access to ceremony or cultural teachings, Mashkiki was created as a pathway to healing, identity, and connection. What began as a creative outlet has grown into a purpose-driven brand focused on creating products that evoke comfort, belonging, and a true sense of home.
Through their journey, Amanda and Monicque hope to inspire other Indigenous and Metis women—showing that no matter your starting point, it is possible to build something meaningful. They are committed to being part of a stronger, more connected future, because they believe Indigenous women are stronger together.
Pheroz M. Austin
Pheroz leads TD Bank’s regional strategy for Indigenous Banking for Eastern Canada. With a role focused on expanding existing relationships and building new connections in the Communities he serves, he builds on the Bank’s strengths of Indigenous employee recruitment, colleague awareness, and service to Indigenous business and governments with strategy and purpose.
Prior to joining TD’s Indigenous Banking Group, Pheroz held several senior leadership roles in commercial credit adjudication, business development and compliance spanning more than 20 years.
He is active in the community, has served on Foundation Boards and is a passionate ally making an impact in the areas of financial literacy and access to banking for Indigenous Peoples.
Keenan Beavis
Keenan Beavis is an award-winning Métis entrepreneur, author and the founder of Longhouse. Through his branding and marketing company, he’s helped more than 850 busy leaders across 92+ industries conquer their to-do lists, win back their time, and make their impact. Longhouse has consistently been recognized as one of Canada’s highest-rated agencies.
Keenan blends real-world experience and creativity to solve complex business problems. His recent work focuses on how people search and how you can become the answer on AI engines such as ChatGPT and Google’s Gemini.
His popular AEO / GEO / AI SEO framework (and upcoming book of the same name), AnswerMapping, outlines the methods Keenan and the Longhouse team use daily to help organizations stay visible, credible, and competitive as search continues to evolve.
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.
Dominique Collin
Dominique Collin has served as senior advisor with NACCA, ABSCAN, and Ulnooweg on housing finance issues. He will continue to coordinate research, product development, and housing ecosystems modernization efforts. He has more than thirty years of experience in First Nations access to capital issues including micro-credit, business financing, community banking, risk capital, and housing and infrastructure financing. His focus has been on assisting innovative financing solutions developed by First Nation financial institutions that integrate sustainability and financial viability.
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.
Darion Ducharme
Darion Ducharme is the Founder and CEO of Teqare, an Indigenous-owned education and technology training organization based in Winnipeg, Manitoba. Since launching in 2021, Darion has led the delivery of cyber safety, digital literacy, financial literacy, and AI awareness workshops to hundreds of schools and over 80 First Nations across Canada, empowering thousands of youth, adults, and elders to navigate today’s digital world with confidence.
His work has been featured in Global News, CBC, SAY Magazine, and The Globe and Mail, and he is a keynote speaker at national Indigenous and education events. In 2025, Darion was recognized with the Young Indigenous Entrepreneur of the Year award by the Canadian Council for Indigenous Business, highlighting his leadership, impact, and commitment to empowering communities through education and technology.
Anna Jane Edwards
Anna-Jane Edwards is the Manukura for Amotai. She is driven by an unwavering belief that every child has the right to thrive in Aotearoa. This has led her to explore how economics, indigenous knowledge systems, co-design and systems thinking can be brought together to disrupt the conditions preventing all people from living full and prosperous lives.
Her roles in health and local government over the past 15 years have explored this concept, eventually leading her to co-found Amotai in 2018 where she has recently returned as Manukura.
Anna-Jane believes that supplier diversity, where organisations buy more goods and services from diverse suppliers, is one of the biggest opportunities to grow meaningful economic step-change for Māori and Pasifika.
Anna-Jane shares her home time between raising a resilient, happy, socially, and environmentally conscious little boy and participating at a governance level on a number of organisations including the New Zealand Drug Foundation and Hawaiki Hou Sport New Zealand.
Trina Fauchoux
Trina Fauchoux is a Métis artisan from the heart of the Batoche region, born and raised in Duck Lake, Saskatchewan. Now residing in St. Louis with her family, Trina is a proud mother of five.
She began beading alongside her daughters during the COVID-19 pandemic as a creative outlet, which quickly grew into a lasting passion. Together, they continue to create handcrafted pieces that reflect their culture, creativity, and dedication to the craft.
In addition to her artistic work, Trina is employed full-time as an Estate Payout Advisor with a major credit union in Saskatchewan. She and her family have also shared their work at community events, including Back to Batoche Days, and continue to engage with customers through their Facebook page, Mama Treens Beading.
Trina has thoughtfully handcrafted each lanyard for the NACCA Indigenous Prosperity Forum over the past several years, and we hope you enjoy them.
Christine Genier
Christine Genier is a Woman of the Wolf Clan and a citizen of the Ta’an Kwäch’än Council. She is a broadcaster, journalist, writer, poet, performer, and apprentice language and culture keeper. Since 1995 Christine has been navigating a career that spans northern theatre, journalism, broadcasting, writing, and public speaking.
She has always done this proudly bringing to the work her Indigenous teachings. In her career and public life, she has witnessed the birth of the conversation around “Decolonization” and promises of “Reconciliation.” In June of 2020, Christine made national headlines when she quit her job as host of CBC Yukon Morning, live and on the air with a four-minute statement that included an introduction in her traditional language, in response to what she felt were unrecognized biases which permeate the mainstream media. In December 2020, Christine was featured in Chatelaine Magazine as one of “Chatelaine’s 20 Women of the Year.” (Pacinthe Mattar)
Since 2020, Christine has devotes most of her time to language recovery and traditional culture work and exploring the Indigenous space in popular culture with honesty and humor. She has returned to live theatre with works in progress underway with Yukon Digital Theatre and Nakai Theatre in Whitehorse. She shares a lived experience that spans over four decades of bridging culture and recovering the Indigenous Space with those prepared to engage.
Chief Lance Haymond
Mr. Lance Haymond is Algonquin/Anishinabe from Kebaowek First Nation, a community established in the Temiscamingue region of Quebec. He is currently serving his tenth term as Chief of his community.
Chief Haymond has spent a large part of his career on advocacy for more housing to meet his community needs, the region of Quebec and those of all First Nations across the country.
He is heavily involved at the regional and national levels as he is the Chief portfolio holder, responsible of the Housing and Infrastructure file for the Assembly of First Nations of Quebec-Labrador (AFNQL) and the Co-chair of the national Chief Committee on Housing and Infrastructure (CCoHI) at the Assembly of First Nations. He also served as Manager of Aboriginal On Reserve Housing Programs for Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC).
Amy Jackson
Amy Jackson is an artist, entrepreneur, service designer, and facilitator from Opaskwayak Cree Nation. She is the Founder of Nativelovenotes, a creative business rooted in storytelling and connection, and the Director of Mittohnee Pogo’ohtah, the Indigenous Entrepreneurship Project at Red River College Polytech in Winnipeg.
Amy’s work focuses on supporting Indigenous entrepreneurs through culturally grounded innovation, mentorship, and service design. She is passionate about creating environments where Indigenous founders can access resources, build confidence, and develop sustainable businesses that reflect community values and priorities.
As a member of the NACCA Indigenous Youth Business Advisory Council (2024–present), Amy contributes to national conversations about Indigenous entrepreneurship and economic empowerment. Through her facilitation and leadership, she brings together community, creativity, and strategy to help entrepreneurs transform ideas into meaningful ventures with lasting impact.
Jolene Johnson
Jolene Johnson is a proud Wolastoqiyik entrepreneur from Neqotkuk First Nation in New Brunswick, as well as a devoted wife, mother, and grandmother. Over the past 25 years, she has been on a deeply personal journey of reconnecting with her Indigenous identity, culture, and traditional knowledge—an experience that continues to shape both her life and her work.
In 2018, Jolene founded Wabanaki Maple, a premium, Indigenous-owned brand specializing in value-added maple syrup products rooted in tradition and storytelling. Under her leadership, the company has grown into a nationally recognized brand, with products reaching customers across Canada and expanding into international markets.
Jolene’s entrepreneurial journey has been marked by both perseverance and purpose. She has been recognized with several prestigious honours, including the Resilience Award from Opportunities New Brunswick, the Female Entrepreneur of the Year award from Ulnooweg Development Group, the Established Entrepreneur Award from Joint Economic Development Initiative, and the Micro-Business Award from RBC Canadian Women of Influence Awards.
Beyond business, Jolene is deeply committed to community and cultural revitalization. Through her work, she strives to create meaningful opportunities that reconnect people to the land, to traditional teachings, and to one another. Her vision extends beyond entrepreneurship—she is building pathways for sustainable growth, cultural preservation, and Indigenous prosperity for future generations.
Jolene’s story is one of resilience, leadership, and purpose—grounded in culture and driven by a commitment to community.
Harlan Kingfisher
Harlan Kingfisher is the CEO and Founder of Smudge The Blades Apparel, an Indigenous-owned clothing brand inspired by the deep connection between First Nations culture and hockey. A proud member of Sturgeon Lake First Nation, Harlan created the brand to celebrate Indigenous hockey, share cultural stories, and give back to community supporting youth with equipment and opportunities to play the game. Through powerful digital storytelling, he has also built a strong following on TikTok, using his voice to amplify Indigenous pride, culture, and community.
Jennifer Laewetz
Jennifer Laewetz is a proud member of George Gordon First Nation in Saskatchewan, with deep roots in both First Nations and Métis communities. A nationally recognized voice in Indigenous governance and politics, she draws on experience in federal politics and her work as a business owner to help revitalize governance systems, bridge policy and community priorities, and ensure decisions lead to meaningful outcomes. Her insightful commentary is featured on television, radio, podcasts, and national media, including regular appearances on APTN National News and CBC Saskatchewan.
Jennifer Laewetz est une fière membre de la Première Nation de George Gordon, en Saskatchewan, et possède de profondes racines au sein des communautés des Premières Nations et métisses. Reconnue à l’échelle nationale comme une voix influente en gouvernance et en politique autochtones, elle met à profit son expérience en politique fédérale et comme entrepreneure pour revitaliser les systèmes de gouvernance, rapprocher les politiques des priorités communautaires et veiller à ce que les décisions aient des retombées concrètes. Ses analyses éclairées sont diffusées à la télévision, à la radio, dans des balados et dans les médias nationaux, notamment à APTN National News et à CBC Saskatchewan.
Martin Légaré
Martin Légaré has been with SOCCA since 2002 and is currently general manager of both ABSCAN and SOCCA. He played a key role in the creation of ABSCAN in 2005 and has been the main force behind its housing finance programming. He holds a bachelor’s degree in business administration and a certificate in commercial credit. Mr. Légaré is also a member of the Huron-Wendat Nation.
Nanaia Mahuta
Hon. Nanaia Mahuta is a senior Māori leader and former Member of the New Zealand Parliament having served 27years. She made history as the first wāhine (women) Māori to serve as Minister of Foreign Affairs and Māori Development. WIth nearly three decades of experience in government and a strong commitment to Indigenous rights, development, diplomacy, and social equity. Hon Mahuta is an Independent Director serving on a range of tribal governance boards.
She is affiliated with Waikato‑Maniapoto iwi (tribes) and is guided by Māori values and tikanga. Throughout her career, Hon. Mahuta has championed the role of Indigenous knowledge in shaping sustainable, inclusive futures. Her leadership contributed to advancing New Zealand’s work in inclusive trade, climate engagement, and Indigenous international collaboration. She is widely recognised for her long‑standing advocacy for Indigenous partnerships, intergenerational wellbeing, and upholding Te Tiriti o Waitangi.
Hon. Mahuta now serves as Project Lead for Tauhokohoko – Indigenous Trade and as an Honorary Professor at Te Kotahi Research Institute at the University of Waikato. In this roles, she continues to support Indigenous‑led solutions in global trade and sustainability, helping to bridge Indigenous wisdom with contemporary science and policy, and offering insights into inclusive, future‑focused systems.
Keith Matthew
Dedicated to fostering economic self-sufficiency for Indigenous communities, Keith Matthew’s roles as CEO of Seklep Business Services and Board Director of NACCA provide invaluable insights into economic development, governance, and community leadership.
Keith Matthew, a proud member of the Simpcw First Nation and Chair of NACCA, is a leader in Indigenous economic development with experience in journalism, governance, and industry partnerships. He helped establish Simpcw Resources Ltd. and serves on several national boards, while proudly being father to Gypsi and Jordan.
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.
Bill Murray
Bill Murray is a Mohawk of Kanehsatà:ke, and a bilingual senior leader with a distinguished record of building and guiding high‑performing international teams across private equity, M&A, and corporate finance. He is a strategic investor and partner with deep experience driving growth in financial services, agrifood, manufacturing, and healthcare.
As a member of the IGF board, Bill contributes extensive expertise in capital raising, financial forecasting, transaction structuring, due diligence, and stakeholder reporting. He currently serves as Director, Indigenous Markets – Institutional Asset Management at CIBC.
Amanda Muskego
Amanda Muskego is Denesųłiné from Cold Lake First Nations and a Business Services Officer with the Alberta Indian Investment Corporation (AIIC), supporting Indigenous youth through the Indigenous Youth Entrepreneur (IYE) Program. As a business owner and Indigenous youth entrepreneur, she brings lived experience and supports clients with business planning, financial literacy, and access to funding, while delivering workshops across First Nation communities.
She holds a Bachelor of Business Administration and will complete her MBA in Finance in June 2026. Amanda is passionate about empowering Indigenous youth and strengthening Indigenous entrepreneurship.
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 Masters 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.
Juan Carlos Reyes
Since assuming the presidency of the National Commission of Digital Assets of El Salvador in August 2023, Juan Carlos Reyes has turned a bold vision into a global benchmark. Starting from scratch, he built the world’s most successful digital assets regulatory framework—ranking #2 globally in its first year and achieving #1 in 2025. Under his leadership, El Salvador has established a fair, transparent, and innovative regulatory process, overseeing over $150 billion and attracting industry giants like Tether. In less than 18 months, he assembled an elite team of regulators—technology-savvy experts with over 60 years of combined experience in traditional financial supervision—proving that a solid foundation attracts excellence.
Born in El Salvador and raised in Canada, where he was educated along with studies in the United States, Juan Carlos holds a Bachelor’s degree in Physics and Mathematics, another in Computer Science, and a Master’s in Management from Harvard. With experience in Silicon Valley and 15 years leading a top-tier consulting firm in governance and blockchain, he is a global strategist. He recently became a Certified Cryptoasset Financial Crime Specialist through ACAMS and completed postgraduate studies in Cryptocurrencies at Universidad del CEMA in Argentina.
His vision transcends borders: he promotes a model without geographic barriers for investment and opportunity, sharing El Salvador’s success with the world through collaborative agreements across the Americas and the launch of the first Digital Assets Symposium (DAS) on April 29, 2025 (das.sv). Supporting the presidential vision of making El Salvador the best country in the world, Juan Carlos is working to position the region as a leader in innovation, strengthening global relationships and proving that this approach is a step in the right direction. His social commitment is evident in initiatives like raising over $3 million at age 21 to help rebuild a village in his home country.
Frank Richter
As the Managing Director of the Indigenous Growth Fund, Frank leads the team that has taken a concept for increasing access to capital for Indigenous Financial Institutions (IFIs) and the Indigenous businesses they finance to reality. Drawing on more than 10 years of experience in financial and public sectors as well as in-depth, data-driven analysis, Frank has methodically structured and built an institution-grade fund that has attracted $153M in committed capital that IFIs are accessing to expand their lending to Indigenous businesses in scope and volume.
During his time at the National Aboriginal Capital Corporations Association (NACCA) he has been instrumental to building and attracting government funding for new programs as well as building an analytics platform that drives the financial modelling of IFI lending activities and their economic impacts. He completed his Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees focusing on business, finance, and economic policy in both.
Kevin Rose
Kevin Rose is the Chief Strategy Officer at the National Aboriginal Capital Corporations Association (NACCA) in Ottawa. A member of the Mississaugas of the Credit First Nation, he has over 20 years of experience in economic and business development, working with First Nations, organizations, and government. Kevin has served as a Senior Business Development Officer, lecturer, and board director and previously owned Northern Approach, a business consulting firm. In 2017, he became the first First Nations president of the Economic Developers Association of Canada (EDAC). Holding a Bachelor of Arts and Bachelor of Education, he is also certified as a Professional Economic Developer (EcD) and Aboriginal Professional Administrator (PAED) the first First Nations individual to achieve both designations. An avid outdoorsman and sports coach, Kevin remains dedicated to Indigenous economic growth and self sufficiency.
Jill Ruep
Jill Ruep is the founder and creator of Ma Fii Lii Rasaad (“My Daughter’s Beads” in Michif), an Indigenous-led beading app and creative business rooted in Saskatchewan. A registered Métis citizen, Jill is committed to preserving Indigenous teachings, storytelling, and cultural creativity through traditional beadwork and modern technology.
Through Ma Fii Lii Rasaad, Jill is building a sustainable, culturally grounded business that weaves together technology, education, and hands-on creativity by developing a beading app centered entirely on Indigenous content. Built in partnership with computer science students, Ma Fii Lii Rasaad represents a meaningful collaboration that blends technical innovation with cultural guidance. Together, they are creating an accessible platform where users can design custom beading patterns while learning the stories, teachings, and cultural context carried within the work.
Ma Fii Lii Rasaad also offers a vendor market-ready business specializing in scalable beading kits for conferences, classrooms, and team-building experiences. She has facilitated workshops across Saskatchewan and shared her work at community events, powwows, and cultural gatherings.
Kate Russell
Kate Russell is a proud Awabakal woman from Lake Macquarie and is committed to empowering her community. Kate draws on her extensive experience working across public and community sectors and is driven by a desire to promote opportunities for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples – making sure to approach all programs, policies and initiatives through an intersectional lens. Kate is passionate about engaging Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people and communities to co-design programs and services using international best practices to make tangible changes in policy. As a consultant, Kate has worked across multiple policy areas to support the delivery of outcomes and community benefits, with a focus on people and culture programs. Prior to this, she held senior roles at the Department of Planning and Environment, where she oversaw the design and delivery of programs across a portfolio of agencies and over 15,000 staff.
Currently, Kate is the Chair of the Diversity Council Australia’s Indigenous External Advisory and a Director of the Committee for Sydney, as well as member of the inaugural Advisory Board for the ASEAN-Australia Centre (AAC). She previously served as a Director for Yilabara Solutions and Interrelate. In July 2023, she commenced her role as Chief Executive Officer at Supply Nation, the Australian leader in supplier diversity. Kate holds a Bachelor of International Studies (Distinction), an MBA and an Executive Masters of Public Administration.
Travis Seymour
Travis Seymour, a Mohawk from the Mohawk Territory of Akwesasne, is an accomplished professional and trailblazer. As the first-ever First Nation CEO at the First Nations Market Housing Fund (FNMHF), he leads the organization from its headquarters in Akwesasne. Travis, an FCPA, FCGA, brings extensive expertise as Director of Finance and Administration for FNMHF since 2018. His career spans impactful roles with MNP LLP, the First Nations Financial Management Board, Aboriginal Healing Foundation, and the Mohawk Council of Akwesasne. Travis holds notable designations as a Certified Aboriginal Financial Manager and a Certified Government Audit Professional. Beyond his professional achievements, Travis enjoys outdoor activities like camping and fishing. His accomplishments and dedication make him a respected leader and role model for others in his community and beyond.
Donna St. Louis
Donna St. Louis is the National Lead for Indigenous Business at Export Development Canada (EDC), where she champions opportunities for Indigenous-owned companies to grow and compete in global markets. Of Nlaka’pamux Nation heritage and based on the traditional territories of the Sḵwx̱wú7mesh Úxwumixw in British Columbia, Donna has dedicated her career to Indigenous economic development, including supporting Indigenous entrepreneurs to access capital and financing through roles with the First Nations Finance Authority and Tale’awtxw Aboriginal Capital Corporation. She is recognized as a leader in advancing Indigenous participation in trade and business growth across Canada.
Relay Tangie
Relay holds a bachelor’s degree in Accounting, is a Certified General Accountant Ontario (CPA, CGA) and a fellow with the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA) UK. Her key strength has been the ability to bring finance and operations together, streamline, develop and implement sustainable processes that prepare organisations for growth and provide timely information used for decision making. Relay is a member of Toastmasters International, volunteers with Junior Achievement Ontario and mentors new migrants into becoming well integrated and functional members of their community.
Anthony Wingham
Anthony is a proud Métis entrepreneur and community leader driven by innovation, culture, and impact. He has studied project and business management at BCIT, UBC, and UVIC, and completed advanced training through Royal Roads University, the Canadian Marketing Association, and executive education at the Tuck School of Business at Dartmouth. Anthony now leads the growth of Nuez Acres, Canada’s only Indigenous pecan oil waterless beauty line, while also operating Metisprint, a sustainable apparel brand celebrating Métis culture. He serves as President of the Waceya Métis Society and contributes to multiple boards, while also advancing digital literacy and inspiring Indigenous youth across Canada through his work with Connected North.