Sugar Cane Archaeology

Sugar Cane Archaeology, wholly owned by the Williams Lake First Nation (WLFN), is a pioneering First Nations enterprise led by a dedicated team of project managers, archaeologists, and natural resource experts. The company specializes in heritage management and natural resource stewardship in British Columbia, with a distinct focus on responsible industry practices.  

The core vision of Sugar Cane is to uphold and advance Indigenous cultural heritage stewardship within its traditional territory, while adhering to rigorous ethical principles. Its mission encompasses integrating Indigenous knowledge, perspectives, and practices into the consulting sector, enlightening industry partners about archaeology, cultural heritage, and fostering ethical conduct in workplaces.  

Integral to Sugar Cane’s operations is an Indigenous employment strategy, which emphasizes recruiting from WLFN and neighbouring First Nations through community initiatives, job fairs, presentations, and engagement tactics. Under the stewardship of the WLFN, Sugar Cane has solidified its reputation in the Secwepemc/Central BC/Cariboo region through dynamic industry partnerships, resource development, and vital heritage management undertakings. Notably, Sugar Cane has engaged in significant projects such as the St. Joseph’s Mission Residential School geophysical investigation, the Williams Lake River Valley 2020 Flooding Event, and the Cariboo Memorial Hospital Expansion project, as well as several pioneering Archaeological Inventory Surveys through the Cariboo. 

Daxgedim Haanak’ Nation Building

Marcia Turner is an Indigenous leader focused on advocating for self-determination and self-government among Indigenous peoples across British Columbia and beyond. As CEO and founder of Daxgedim Haanak’ Nation Building, Marcia envisions a decolonized future where Indigenous peoples can freely embrace their culture and languages. She has a deep commitment and connection to her Gitxsan heritage as part of the Lax Gibuu (Wolf clan) and belongs to the Wilp Haijimsxw, House of Chief Haijimsxw.

With a mission that revolves around transformation and systems change at the governance and leadership levels, Marcia works alongside Indigenous communities to amplify their voices. Her goals encompass facilitating Nation re-building, revitalizing ancestral governance structures to re-incorporate matriarchs, advancing Indigenous rights and title, fostering Indigenous and non-Indigenous relationships, while expanding her business with a team of Indigenous associates who share her vision of decolonial futures. Her journey began with small workshops on cultural safety and historical awareness from an Indigenous perspective. Over time, her business has evolved and grown significantly, showcasing her ability to collaborate with diverse organizations, governments, and educational institutions. 

Hailed as a role model, Marcia is known for her efforts rooted in ancestral teachings and grounded in a rights-based framework. She focuses on creating sustainable, solutions-oriented impacts that resonate at the systemic level and underpin her commitment to meaningful change. 

Jelly Academy

Jelly Academy is a reskilling company specializing in equipping individuals with comprehensive digital marketing expertise. Its digital marketing curriculum features 11 industry recognized credentials, forming the bedrock for success in the digital arena. The academy’s flagship Digital Marketing bootcamp provides expert training in pivotal sectors such as SEO, social media, digital ads (Facebook, Instagram, Google), Google Analytics, Public Relations and Email Marketing. This program boasts a remarkable track record, with high graduation rates translating into successful career placements, driven by industry-experienced educators who offer insights and support beyond instruction.  

Jelly Academy’s commitment to accessibility and inclusivity is evident through its efforts in providing scholarships to over 100 Indigenous students, forging collaborations with Indigenous organizations, and empowering over 40 graduates from these communities. This commitment aligns with the academy’s broader mission to foster diversity within the tech and digital job sectors.   

With expanding horizons, Jelly Academy has augmented its teaching team and diversified its course selection, while forging strategic alliances with influential Indigenous organizations and many more. As it forges ahead, Jelly Academy’s reskilling, diversity and excellence-focused approach is reshaping the digital landscape, paving the way for a more inclusive digital marketing industry. 

Shxw’ōwhámél-LandSea Limited Partnership (SLLP)

The Shxw’ōwhámél-LandSea Limited Partnership (SLLP) specializes in constructing and operating diverse workforce accommodations within the Shxw’ōwhámél traditional territory in Hope, BC. Its focus extends beyond providing basic shelter, aiming to ensure the well-being and productivity of on-site workers through quality living conditions and appealing food options. SLLP places paramount importance on environmental stewardship, striving to create economic opportunities for its community while fostering a sustainable future. 

Established in 2019, the partnership has grown steadily, offering increased job opportunities while navigating the challenges of the COVID pandemic with resiliency and adaptable practices. A significant achievement was the completion of the $20M worker’s accommodation complex, Sqémél Lá:lém, providing temporary workforce housing in the territory while showcasing a dedication to Indigenous employment and community engagement. Notable project initiatives have included five Pre-Employment Hospitality Work Skills Training programs held for Indigenous community members, the integration of Indigenous language and art into the lodge name, logo, signage, and documentation, and other cultural programming such as site and meal blessing ceremonies. The project has further maintained an average of 36% Indigenous employment throughout its lifetime. 

SLLP’s dedication has extended to substantial community contributions, donating annually for local initiatives, and providing construction assistance to Shxw’ōwhámél First Nation. Forward-thinking and driven by Indigenous values, SLLP’s projects are designed to impact its community. As an example, the Sqémél Lá:lém complex is poised to become a lasting housing development after the Trans Mountain expansion project’s conclusion. 

Teara Fraser

Teara Fraser, founder and CEO of Iskwew Air, embodies inspired leadership in every aspect of her life. Her remarkable path mirrors the resilience and tenacity defining Indigenous entrepreneurs. From her 2012 IBA recognition for Kîsik Aerial Survey Inc. to spearheading Canada’s first 100% Indigenous woman-owned airline, Teara shatters industry norms, empowering Indigenous women to overcome barriers and develop economic independence. In a bold move, Teara founded an aerotech venture, elibird aero, in January 2023, aiming to be one of Canada’s first all-electric flight training units spanning electric and hydrogen technologies, immersive flight and maintenance training, RPAS (remote piloted aircraft systems) and airspace integration, digital transformation, and battery infrastructure. 

Teara’s industry leadership extends to improving access to remote Indigenous communities and promoting responsible land stewardship. Her efforts open doors of opportunity for Indigenous youth, dismantling traditional stereotypes and nurturing careers in aviation and entrepreneurship. Engaged for over a decade with the British Columbia Aviation Council and serving as a Board Director for Aerial Evolution formerly Unmanned Systems Canada, Teara’s influence extends further as she sits on the Board of Directors for the Greater Vancouver Board of Trade. As a proud Métis woman, Teara is a bridge builder, igniting inspiration among the next generation of women through her work as the founder of the LIFT Collective while simultaneously empowering Indigenous communities worldwide. Her multifaceted leadership is a resounding testament to her commitment to fostering positive change. 

Tiičma Enterprises

Tiičma Enterprises, a wholly owned economic development corporation of the Ka:’yu:’k’t’h’/Che:k’les7et’h’ First Nations (KCFN), fosters a self-reliant community through diverse economic development ventures. KCFN Holdings LP Board of Directors provides governance oversight of the commercial projects, including management services, aggregates, forestry, fisheries, mariculture, tourism, hospitality, and retail. These ventures align with the community’s economic development plan, enhancing infrastructure, services, and the skills of KCFN citizens. Despite its small size, KCFN has made a significant impact through determined pursuit of economic stability, garnering praise from customers and forging successful partnerships across industries and around the world.   

Since 2012, Tiičma Enterprises has seen impressive growth by responding to market demands through strategic planning, investments, and training. The Tiičma Hospitality LP is a prime example, expanding its tourism offerings by investing in upgraded facilities. These moves solidify its market presence and contribute to employment and training opportunities. KCFN’s commitment to capacity building and succession planning is evident in their focus on professional development, mentoring citizens into management roles and attracting distant community members with stable careers and supporting citizen entrepreneurship whether in partnership or via procurement. The Group of Businesses also collaborates through a roundtable, uniting First Nations, stakeholders, governments, and organizations to address key issues such as pandemic resilience, climate change, ecosystem restoration, and new economic prospects, all aimed at bolstering Kyuquot’s economies and resources.
 

Dr. Eldon Yellowhorn

Dr. Eldon Yellowhorn (Otahkotskina) is an Indigenous engagement leader in archaeology and academia whose trailblazing efforts have paved the way for subsequent generations of Indigenous scholars and students to thrive in these fields. Eldon joined Simon Fraser University (SFU) faculty in 2002 and helped establish the Department of Indigenous Studies in 2012, serving as its inaugural Chair until 2017. As a speaker of the Blackfoot language, Eldon is dedicated to its preservation. He has contributed his voice to narrate animated videos that incorporate Blackfoot for teaching mathematics. Eldon is now exploring the potential of artificial intelligence to create language learning instruments that allow citizen linguists to participate actively in preserving it. His research explores the potential of machine learning to revitalize Blackfoot and ensure that his generation is not the last to speak it.  

Eldon grew up on a farm on the Peigan Indian Reserve, part of the Piikani Nation. His upbringing nurtured his passion for earth sciences while shaping his professional path. His pursuit of knowledge led him on a learning journey culminating in graduate studies at SFU where he became the first Indigenous student to earn a Master of Arts degree in Archaeology in 1993. He completed his Ph.D. in 2002 at McGill University.  

Beyond his role as an educator at SFU, Eldon served as President of the Canadian Archaeological Association (CAA) from 2010 to 2012 as the first Indigenous person to hold this position. His contributions to the Missing Children Project and the Brandon IRS Cemeteries Project have been invaluable in restoring the dignity and reclaiming the identities of Indigenous children who died at residential schools. Eldon’s commitment to promoting reconciliation principles resonates in his involvement with initiatives such as SFU’s First Peoples’ Gathering House planning committee. His advisory role and close collaboration with SFU’s senior executives help shape the university’s reconciliation efforts. Eldon’s ability and willingness to bridge different worlds inspires others to join forces in creating inclusive and welcoming societies and organizations. 

Klith-wii-taa, Dr. Barney Williams

Klith-wii-taa, Dr. Barney Williams, a hereditary leader from the Tla-o-qui-aht First Nation of the Nuu-chah-nulth Nation, is renowned for his expertise in Indigenous healing and counselling. Fluent in the Nuu-chah-nulth language, he integrates traditional teachings into his work, particularly in the realm of mental health. Throughout his career, Barney has held notable positions as an executive director and social service administrator, specializing in counselling areas that encompass youth, community prevention, crisis intervention, and addictions. His contributions include the establishment of a ground-breaking counselling program for Indigenous peoples at Vancouver Island University. The program served as a model for the integration of traditional healing knowledge with Western approaches, marking a crucial step towards holistic and culturally responsive care.  

From 2008 to 2015, Barney played a vital role as a member of the Survivor’s Committee for the Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC), offering cultural and spiritual guidance. As a survivor, counsellor, and leader, Barney’s knowledge and personal experiences informed the TRC’s work. As the Elder in Residence, he offered constant support to the TRC staff, and his contributions have been recognized and celebrated by many institutions.In 2017, he received an Honorary Doctorate in Laws from the University of Victoria, acknowledging his exceptional achievements. 

Barney actively encourages personal growth, drawing from his own journey to sobriety. Recognized with the 2022 Courage to Come Back Award, he collaborates closely with First Nations communities, deepening the understanding of addiction and trauma therapy. Barney creates a safe space for survivors to share their stories, preserving the history of residential schools and promoting healing within Indigenous communities. Through reconciliation initiatives, decolonization advocacy, and empowering Indigenous students, Barney embodies Indigenous resilience, inspiring cultural reconnection through community engagement.  

Chief Willie Sellars

Chief Willie Sellars’ leadership embodies integrity, respect, and a commitment to furthering reconciliation. His efforts inspire others to participate in the collective journey of healing and understanding between Indigenous and non-Indigenous communities. A member of the Williams Lake First Nation (WLFN) of the Secwepemc Nation, Willie was first elected to WLFN Council in 2008. After serving on WLFN Council for a decade, he was elected as Chief in 2018 and is currently in his second term of office. Both as a WLFN employee and an elected official, Willie advocates for reconciliation, recognizing the need for healing from the impacts of colonialism, residential schools, and the Indian Act 

Willie recognizes that building relationships and partnerships in business creates an avenue for reconciliation. His negotiation of three impact benefit agreements with local mines generated employment opportunities and community revenues used to fund programs for WLFN youth, elders, and vulnerable individuals. As Chief and chief negotiator, Willie concluded the first government-to-government agreement under section 119 of the Cannabis Control and Licensing Act, resulting in the establishment of WLFN’s Unity Cannabis retail chain. WLFN Cannabis enterprises employ more than 50 people, the majority of whom are Indigenous.  

Willie works tirelessly to improve governance in his community transitioning WLFN to sectoral self-government over lands with the implementation of a Land Code under the First Nations Land Management Act and a Financial Administration Law pursuant to the First Nations Fiscal Management Act. The last five years have been transformative for WLFN, with more than $40 million in capital projects and development taking place on WLFN lands during that term. 

Working collaboratively with other orders of government, the public and the Catholic Church, Willie played a key role in the investigation of the former residential school at St. Joseph’s Mission. He recognizes that the revitalization of culture and language is key in addressing the impacts of colonization and residential schools. Willie and his Council have made substantial investments in programs and infrastructure to reconnect the community with Secwepemc (Shuswap) roots using a youth focus. In 2022, WLFN held its first competitive powwow. 

 Willie always strives for the betterment of his people, writing children’s books, dancing in powwows, playing competitive sports, and engaging in various other community initiatives, and promoting unity and mutual respect among all Canadians.  

Dr. Danièle Behn Smith

Dr. Danièle Behn Smith is Eh Cho Dene of Fort Nelson First Nation and Franco-Manitobain/Métis from the Red River Valley. Danièle has dedicated her medical career to serving rural and First Nations communities across Canada. In 2014, she transitioned to a functional medicine practice, embracing a complex systems biology approach to family practice that aligns with Indigenous approaches to health and healing. Danièle has also served as a board director for the Indigenous Physicians Association of Canada, director of education for the University of Alberta’s Indigenous Health Initiatives Program, and site director of the University of British Columbia’s Aboriginal Family practice residency.  

In 2015, Danièle joined the BC Office of the Provincial Health Officer (OPHO) as Deputy Provincial Health Officer, Indigenous Health, providing independent advice and support to the Ministry of Health on Indigenous health matters. During the COVID-19 pandemic, Danièle contributed to identifying and arresting racism in various pandemic responses and policies. This included collaborating with the Provincial Health Officer (PHO) and a coalition of First Nations leaders to establish a data-sharing framework expanding the scope of data shared to better support First Nations-led responses. Other anti-racist actions included advocating for the removal of requirements that the Provincial Health Officer approve First Nations-led pandemic response. Under Danièle’s guidance, the OPHO expanded to include six Indigenous team members, ensuring a strong Indigenous voice within the organization.  

A leader who actively advances reconciliation, Danièle works to raise awareness and promote acknowledgement that Indigenous-specific racism is perpetuated through white supremacist policies and practices that remain hardwired into our systems and processes and impede the health and wellness of Indigenous Peoples. She actively works to uphold the inherent rights of Indigenous peoples by taking actions on specific Foundational Commitments made to Indigenous Peoples (e.g., UNDRIP, TRC, MMIWG & In Plain Sight), being trustworthy in relationships with Indigenous partners, and taking anti-racist actions in all aspects of her work with the OPHO. She fosters relationships and collaborations to identify and eliminate racism in programs and services, while also promoting increased Indigenous cultural knowledge among those with whom she works. Danièle challenges the existing ways of knowing and operating within the healthcare system and society at large to improve the well-being of Indigenous communities.