When and Where?
September 19 - 21, 2017
River Cree Marriott
300 East Lapotac Blvd., Enoch, AB
T7X 3Y3
What is Alberta Links To Learning?
The goal of the Alberta Links to Learning event is to deliver a dynamic technical training forum for First Nation Economic Development Officers and Land Managers to enhance their ability to undertake successful lands and economic development ventures.
The event focuses on knowledge sharing and skills enhancement among practitioners at the community level. This forum delivers a series of workshops, led by experts in a range of economic and land development related disciplines, and offer opportunities for dialogue and networking.
Who is invited to Alberta Links To Learning?
Priority registration is for one Land Manager and One Economic Development Officer, or Councillors responsible for this portfolio from each Alberta First Nation. Registration, travel, accommodation, and expenses will be covered for each delegate to attend the event! There is a fee of $367.50 for extra delegates from each First Nation beyond the two and anyone else interested in attending that is not an Alberta First Nation Land Manager or EDO.
Registration:
To register please contact Danielle Lightning, Special Projects Coordinator, Cando:
Danielle.lightning@edo.ca780.990.0303 ext.229
Travel Costs & Expense Claim
Travel costs will be reimbursed only for pre-approved delegates. All delegates are responsible for coordinating and booking their own travel, and ensuring they comply with the Federal Treasury Board travel rates and this event’s travel policies.
Accommodations need to be secured by emailing Danielle.lightning@edo.ca (Cando Special Projects Coordinator).
Deadline to book your accommodations is September 13, 2017.
The deadline to submit expense claims is October 6, 2017.
Expense Claim Form (Click Icon To Download)
If you have any questions, please contact:
Danielle Lightning
Special Projects Coordinator
CANDO
Danielle.lightning@edo.ca
780.990.0303 ext.229
Click the icon below to download a PDF of the full agenda:
Full Agenda (Click Icon To Download)
Agenda at a glance:
Tuesday, September 19, 2017
Morgan Bamford, Instructor, NVIT
Accredited training: 45 hours total, 8 face to face and 37 online
Morgan Bamford, Instructor, NVIT
Accredited training: 45 hours total, 8 face to face and 37 online
Morgan Bamford, Instructor, NVIT
Accredited training: 45 hours total, 8 face to face and 37 online
Morgan Bamford, Instructor, NVIT
Accredited training: 45 hours total, 8 face to face and 37 online
Wednesday, September 20, 2017
Angie Derrickson, Instructor
Thursday, September 21, 2017
If you have any questions, please contact:
Danielle Lightning
Special Projects Coordinator
CANDO
Danielle.lightning@edo.ca
780.990.0303 ext.229
Cando Accredited Course: ACED 150 - Leadership & Problem Solving
Credits: 3 – 45 contact hours with a combination of face-to-face and online
Tuesday, September 19 • Enoch AB:
8:30am - 10:30am (Part 1)10:45am - 12:00pm (Part 2)
1:00pm - 2:15pm (Part 3)
2:30pm - 4:30pm (Part 4)
This course is an introduction to the contemporary theories of leadership styles, problem solving, conflict resolution techniques and decision-making processes that come into play in Aboriginal Communities. The course will also explore the various traditional First Nation Leadership styles that are coming back into play in Aboriginal Communities. This course provides an opportunity to learn experience, develop, and enhance the participant’s knowledge and skills that are necessary to become effective Aboriginal community leaders and community workers.
Presented by: Morgan Bamford, Instructor, NVIT
Morgan Bamford is at Links to Learning as a contract instructor with Nicola Valley Institute of Technology, teaching ADMN 150 (Leadership and Problem Solving). Outside of this work, Morgan is an Indigenous Relations Consultant with the City of Edmonton, connecting Indigenous communities and urban organizations to city resources and supporting city departments with their work impacting and involving Indigenous peoples. His areas of focus are community economic development and First Nation/municipal collaboration.
Morgan holds an MBA in Community Economic Development (First Nations specialization) from Cape Breton University and a Bachelor of Arts in Native Studies from the University of Alberta. He is a Cando-certified Technician Aboriginal Economic Developer (TAED). Morgan has held several roles working in Aboriginal Community Economic Development, including with Alberta Indigenous Relations and with Cando as the Program Coordinator of the First Nations-Municipal Community Economic Development Initiative (CEDI) during its pilot phase.
NALMA Course: How to Set Up a Lands Office
Tuesday, September 19 • Enoch EF:
8:30am - 10:30am (Part 1)10:45am - 12:00pm (Part 2)
1:00pm - 2:15pm (Part 3)
2:30pm - 4:30pm (Part 4)
How to Set-Up a Land Management Office is a 4-part workshop that provides the participant with the basic information to assist with better understanding of the fundamental concepts of what is required, why and how to use it efficiently and effectively. The workshop covers 16 essential topic areas including but not limited to general administration, operations, policy and procedures, law-making, compliance and monitoring, environment, planning, etc. Participants will actively partake in an assessment exercise that will assist in developing a structured planning method to evaluate the social, economic, environmental and cultural impacts on land management in their communities.
Full Workshop Presentation PDF (Click Icon To Download)
Presented by: Debra Campbell, Instructor, NALMA
Debra Campbell is a member of the Musqueam Indian Band, a Coast Salish Community located in Vancouver, BC. She attained her post-secondary education at Langara College, Vancouver, BC in the Business Administration Program, earned certification as a Facilitator of Adult Learning from Loyalist College, Belleville, ON, received certification as a Professional Aboriginal Economic Developer (PAED) from Cando and achieved a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Public Administration and Governance at Ryerson University, Toronto, ON.
For the past 12 years she has worked with the National Aboriginal Lands Managers Association as the Master Instructor for the Professional Lands Management Certification Program.
Government Updates
Wednesday, September 20 • 9:15am - 10:15am Enoch CD
Indigenous and Northern Affairs Canada (INAC):
Dayna Jongejan, Director - Lands, Economic Development and Intergovernmental Relations – INAC Alberta RegionDayna joined the Indigenous & Northern Affairs Canada Alberta regional office in May 2016 as the Director of Lands, Economic Development and Intergovernmental Relations and has been with the Federal Government for over 16 years. Her team is responsible for Lands, Economic Development, Environment & Natural Resources, Consultations, Claims & Negotiations, Intergovernmental Relations and Urban Programming for Indigenous Peoples. Outside of work Dayna keeps busy raising two young energetic girls.
Full Workshop Presentation PDF (Click Icon To Download)
Western Economic Diversification Canada (WD):
Bev Therrien, Manager, Business Development and Partnerships - Western Economic Diversification CanadaBev Therrien is Western Economic Diversification’s Manager for Business Development and Partnerships in Alberta. Bev joined WD in 2003 and has worked in various positions within WD Alberta Region and WD Policy and Strategic Direction (PSD). Prior to that, Bev worked for the Government of Alberta and a number of not for profit organizations in Alberta. Bev holds a Bachelors and Masters degree in Political Science from the University of Alberta where her studies focussed on Canadian Public Policy.
Full Workshop Presentation PDF (Click Icon To Download)
Indian Oil and Gas Canada (IOGC):
Daniel Kumpf, Director of Lease and Royalty Administration at Indian Oil and Gas CanadaDan Kumpf is the Director of Lease and Royalty Administration at Indian Oil and Gas Canada. His unit is responsible for the liaison between First Nations and industry with respect to oil and gas exploration on First Nation reserve lands. This includes lease negotiations, surface agreements and royalty calculation. Mr. Kumpf has been directly involved working with First Nations for over 17 years. In addition to an expertise in oil and gas issues, he also spent 10 years working in community planning.
Natural Resources Canada (NRCan):
Mark Hatcher, Senior Regional Manager - WestMark Hatcher is the manager of the Alberta Regional Office for the Surveyor General Branch (NRCan). He has been with Surveyor General Branch since 2009 starting in the Atlantic Regional Office and making his move to the Alberta office in 2014. Mark is a Canada Lands Surveyor (CLS), Nova Scotia Lands Surveyor (NSLS) and a Newfoundland Land Surveyor (NLS) as well as professional engineer (P.Eng.). Mark is a graduate from the Centre of Geomatic Sciences (COGS) with a diploma in Geomatic Engineering Technology and from the University of New Brunswick with a Bachelor of Science in Engineering (Geomatics), cadastral surveying option.
Alberta Indigenous Relations:
Karen Lamothe, Director, Economic Development, Indigenous RelationsDirector of Economic Development with Alberta Indigenous Relations, her unit supports various Economic Development grant programs and business development supports. Former Governement of Alberta work includes employment and training, educational grant programs, strategic poliy and managing programs that support transitions to post-secondary education. She co-owned a business for 12 years in the wholesale distribution business and retail design/build industry. Karen’s business background also includes the start-up of Kids in the Hall restaurant, which is a social enterprise that supports at-risk youth in reintergration to work and education.
Panel Discussion - Aboriginal Financial Institutions (AFIs)
Wednesday, September 20 • 10:15am - 11:00am Enoch CD
Indian Business Corporation (IBC):
Rob Rollingson, General ManagerRob Rollingson has been in the financial services field for over 30 years. Rob held various positions with Royal Bank Financial Group throughout the province of Alberta. Rob began his banking career in Personal Banking eventually moving into Business and Commercial Banking areas. For the past 10 years Rob has been the General Manager of Indian Business Corporation. Over this period of time, IBC has lent out over $40 million to Aboriginal business and entrepreneurs. Rob is known for his innovative ideas on how to create partnerships with the private sector and First Nations and is a champion in leading the charge of “access to capital” for Aboriginal people.
Community Futures Treaty Seven:
Shawna Morning Bull, Manager, Business DevelopmentShawna Morning Bull is a member of the Piikani First Nation located in southern Alberta. She has been involved in Aboriginal Economic Development for 20 years beginning in 1997 where she graduated from Lethbridge College and had started at Peace Hills Trust – Calgary Branch, since April 2010 she has been employed as the Manager Business Development at Community Futures Treaty Seven (CFT7) in Calgary Alberta. In this capacity she is responsible for the overall direction, evaluation, and operations of the various development initiatives which the Community Futures Treaty Seven is currently involved in or wishes to pursue. Prior to CFT7 she was a Business Loans Manager with Alberta Indian Investment Corporation and a Business Support Officer with Indian Business Corporation. She is also a Board member for Piikani Resource Development Corporation Board of Directors, an entity operating on the Piikani Nation to develop, design and implement projects, programs and services for the benefit of her First Nations economy. As of November 1, 2013, Shawna is the Alberta Board Member for the Council for the Advancement of Native Development Officers (CANDO), Cando is a national Aboriginal organization involved in community economic development. Shawna also sits on the Indigenous Opportunities Committee with the Calgary Chamber of Commerce where she was apart of the inaugural Indigenous Entrepreneur of the Year award in 2014.
Business Development Bank of Canada (BDC):
Tyler Gibbon-Thorne, Senior Manager, Indigenous BankingTyler is an Inuk from Southern Labrador (NunatuKavut) and is currently the Senior Manager of Indigenous Banking for the Province of Alberta with the Business Development Bank of Canada. In this role he acts as the face of the Bank by meeting with Indigenous entrepreneurs and strategic influencers within the community. The end goal is to open the dialogue to create a lasting and impactful difference in the Indigenous community by providing loans to start or expand a business, as well as consulting services to help improve financial literacy, marketing, and to identify organizational inefficiencies.
Apeetogosan (Metis) Development Inc.:
Brian Soucie, Status Entrepreneurship Assistance Program ManagerBrian is from Edmonton, AB. He is a member of the Thessalon First Nations in northern Ontario. He graduated from the University of Alberta with a Bachelor of Education degree and has completed the CMA program. He has worked for over 25 years with the Government of Canada in Taxation and Indian Affairs. His most recent work experience includes working (since 2004) as a Development Officer with Aboriginal Business Canada (Industry Canada) and Apeetogosan (Metis) Development Inc. assisting many Aboriginal entrepreneurs to launch successful businesses. He enjoys music and the arts and is an avid CFL, hockey and Oilers fan. He has been married for over 252 years and has 1 daughter and one grandson.
Alberta Indian Investment Corporation (AIIC):
Errol Wilson, Operations Manager, AIICErrol Wilson has been employed by the Alberta Indian Investment Corporation (AIIC) since March 2005, where currently he is the Operations Manager, serving in a leadership role within the corporation. AIIC advocates and develops successful First Nation entrepreneurs in the Province of Alberta. Errol has developed his extensive practical business knowledge, working in several management capacities his 31-year career in Aboriginal business development.
Errol’s passion in developing Aboriginal entrepreneurs has encouraged, counseled and mentored many of his clients to believe in themselves to successfully achieve their business aspirations; based on his own deep-seated belief in self-reliance. Currently, he resides in the city of Edmonton. Errol also serves as Chairman of Peguis First Nation Surrender Claim Trust fund.
First Nation-Municipal Community Economic Development Initiative (CEDI)
Wednesday, September 20 • 11:15am - 12:00am Enoch CD
CEDI:
Tanya Tourangeau, CEDI Program Coordinator and Marissa Lawrence, CEDI Senior Program OfficerTanya joins the Cando family as the Program Coordinator, CEDI, Western Region from the GNWT; a strategic specialist, she has successfully contributed to government-wide initiatives, ensuring alignment with government and department business goals and strategies.
As an adult educator developing Business Administration programs tailored to Indigenous Entrepreneurs for over 10 years, she has the ability to transfer knowledge effectively and instill motivation and confidence in the learner. Tanya has achieved Land Management Certification and has a strong background in continuous improvement methodologies, change management, project management, and ICT initiatives.
Marissa Lawrence, CEDI Senior Program Officer
Marissa joins Cando as the Senior Program Officer, CEDI, Western Region with a rich background of designing and convening community-bridging intercultural dialogue and educational programming.
Over the past few years, Marissa worked with Reconciliation Canada, where at a senior management level worked directly with municipalities and First Nations on jointly-led reconciliation and relationship-building initiatives. Marissa understands the complexities of reconciliation and right relations between Indigenous peoples and all Canadians, and with this is compelled to work towards increased education, reciprocal and respectful relationships and the reduction of barriers, towards the creation of equitable opportunities for all peoples
City of Edmonton:
Brian McCosh, Principal Planner, City of EdmontonBrian McCosh, M.Pl., RPP is a second generation community planner that has been honoured to work with Indigenous communities in Treaty 6 and 8 Alberta for the past 10 years. Through roles in the public and private sector, Brian has facilitated a variety of plans and processes including Community Development Plans, Comprehensive Community Plans, Land Use Plans and economic development including rural Commercial Parks.
Brian’s current role is Principal Planner in the City of Edmonton’s Regional and Economic Development Department. One of his primary projects is the Boundary Interface Protocols and Strategies with Enoch Cree Nation and Parkland County - a collaborative effort to increase understanding and better communicate about development occurring near shared boundaries. Brian developed and taught Planning with Indigenous Communities in the University of Alberta’s Urban and Regional Planning Program in the 2017 Winter Term.
Enoch Cree Nation:
Corina Hollingworth, Community Planner Manager, Community Planning, River Cree Development CorporationCorina (Morin) Hollingworth, BGS, MA Candidate, is a member of the Enoch Cree Nation and works as their Community Planning Manager based out of the River Cree Development Corporation. Her education background includes having graduated with a SAIT Business Program diploma, a Bachelor of General Studies' degree with honours from AU, a Program of Legal Studies for Native People diploma from the U of S. She is working on a Master's Degree (when time permits) and is pursuing a Regional Planning Professional designation.
Corina’s experiences have included working in the far north and various regions of Canada, along with receiving various awards recognizing her education and business achievements. She has worked in the private and government sectors for both Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal organizations in the financial, legal, human resources, business, education, planning and economic sectors over the past 20 years. Achieving the Memorandum of Understanding with Edmonton (MOU), the Integrated Land Use Plan (ILUP), Legal Addressing, Master Service Plan (MSP) and other work that includes the Parkland County-- along with ongoing and other projects. It is exciting to pursue real opportunities for her home nation’s future as it uses all of her knowledge, skills and experience gained to date.
Economic Development 101
Wednesday, September 20 • 1:00pm - 2:30pm Enoch A
Is economic development about jobs or profit? Should it be the main goal of every community or is it a means to an end? Is there one right way or many? This interactive session presents the fundamentals of economic development, explores different approaches, and provides real examples of how communities have used sound planning to achieve their broader goals. Funding sources such as the Aboriginal Economic Partnership Program (AEPP) and other supports will also be explored.
Full Workshop Presentation PDF (Click Icon To Download)
Presented by: Jeremy Cairns, Team Lead, Economic Development Relations
Jeremy Cairns began working in the natural resource sector, in BC forestry and later as a mineral prospector and contractor in Yukon and the Northwest Territories. Through this work he developed a passion for the land and northern communities, that continues to inform his career. Jeremy has worked for the Yukon Department of Economic Development, as well as a number of development and advocacy organizations in Canada, and Europe. He now works with the Government of Alberta as Team Lead, Economic Partnerships, with Alberta Indigenous Relations.
Jeremy has a BA, Honours, from the University of Victoria and a diploma in Russian Language from the State Linguistic University of Irkutsk, Russia. In 2014 he earned a Master of Public Policy from the Hertie School of Governance in Berlin, Germany, where he focused on researching the relationship between resource extractive industry, community economic development and governance.
Presented by: Michael Zelmer, Economic Development Coordinator, Alberta Indigenous Relations
Michael Zelmer joined Alberta Indigenous Relations in January 2017 with an already broad background in economic development and research that includes ten years in small firm management and trade. He holds a BA from the University of Victoria with a focus in anthropology and economics, and a concentration on small scale organizational capacity. He also holds an MA from UBC in Resource Management, where he conducted research into the efforts of small-scale farmers collectively using specialized coffee markets to advance their livelihoods and improve the forested farms they manage. Michael has received additional training in project management, business process improvement, and accounting.
Community Energy Planning
Wednesday, September 20 • 1:00pm - 2:30pm Enoch B
Full Workshop Presentation PDF (Click Icon To Download)
Presented by: Vickie Wetchie, CEO, Akamihk
A born descended of the Plains Cree of Treaty 6 and the Shoshone-Bannock Tribes of Fort Hall, Idaho. She was raised in Maswacis, Alberta and the Fort Hall Indian Reservation. Graduating from the University of Alberta in 2010 with a Bachelor of Arts in Native Studies and a minor in Anthropology is a highlight of her academic career. Vickie has worked in her community of Maskwacis and in Edmonton in the Human Resource, Employment and Training, Administration and Business Development for the past 10 years. Additionally she served on the Maskwacis Employment Centre Board for 3 years providing direction to lead the Aboriginal workforce to opportunity. A passion for assisting others and connecting she has been providing leadership to the Aboriginal Women’s Professional Association of Edmonton since 2014 as treasurer and elected as President in 2016.
In 2012, she created a partnership company, The Career Chicks, providing Aboriginal training to organizations that need training and diversification. Currently her position is the Executive Director of Akamihk Community Development Society serving the Akamihk community of Maskwacis, serving since 2014. Furthermore, she enjoys living traditionally including actively dancing at pow-wows and exhibition gatherings as a traditional dancer, singing and playing traditional stick games. Vickie has one daughter and is a grandmother to her first grandchild.
Presented by: Jenna Gall, Community Energy Project Coordinator, FNPA
Jenna recently joined the FNPA team and brings a wealth of experience in renewable energy project management, design and installation, and community energy planning. She has been actively involved in over 500 solar projects in Saskatchewan alone. She has lived in and worked with Indigenous communities in Saskatchewan, British Columbia, Yukon and Nunavut and looks forward to bringing her knowledge and experience to the FNPA team.
Getting a Legal Survey Done for Economic Development, IOGC and Lot Surveys
Wednesday, September 20 • 1:00pm - 2:30pm Enoch E
Presented by: Andrew Brebner
Presented by: Mark Hatcher, Senior Regional Manager - West Natural Resources Canada (NRCAN)
Mark Hatcher is the manager of the Alberta Regional Office for the Surveyor General Branch (NRCan). He has been with Surveyor General Branch since 2009 starting in the Atlantic Regional Office and making his move to the Alberta office in 2014. Mark is a Canada Lands Surveyor (CLS), Nova Scotia Lands Surveyor (NSLS) and a Newfoundland Land Surveyor (NLS) as well as professional engineer (P.Eng.). Mark is a graduate from the Centre of Geomatic Sciences (COGS) with a diploma in Geomatic Engineering Technology and from the University of New Brunswick with a Bachelor of Science in Engineering (Geomatics), cadastral surveying option.
Regulating Oil and Gas Activity on First Nation Reserve Lands
Wednesday, September 20 • 1:00pm - 2:30pm Enoch F
The workshop will be a presentation of IOGC's role with respect to the lifecycle of oil and gas activity on First Nation reserve lands, as well as the interaction with Chief and Council.
Presented by: Dan Kumpf, Director of Lease and Royalty Admiration, IOGC
Dan Kumpf is the Director of Lease and Royalty Administration at Indian Oil and Gas Canada. His unit is responsible for the liaison between First Nations and industry with respect to oil and gas exploration on First Nation reserve lands. This includes lease negotiations, surface agreements and royalty calculation. Mr. Kumpf has been directly involved working with First Nations for over 17 years. In addition to an expertise in oil and gas issues, he also spent 10 years working in community planning.
First Nation Land Management (FNLM) Regime
Wednesday, September 20 • 2:45pm - 4:15pm Enoch A
In this session you will receive information on the Framework Agreement on First Nation Land Management, those First Nations involved in the process, highlighted successes, an overview of Indian vs. Land Code and time to discuss your questions from your community.
Full Workshop Presentation PDF (Click Icon To Download)
Presented by: Angie Derrickson, Capacity Building, Training & Professional Development, FNLM Resource Centre
Angie Derrickson is a member of Westbank First Nation, located in south central British Columbia, Canada. Her career started at Westbank First Nation, with roles in administration, Intergovernmental Affairs, and Senior Lands Officer from 2000 to 2010, completing her Professional Lands Management Certification at the University of Saskatchewan. Angie has assisted with governance activities of the WFN Self‐Government Agreement, including community working groups, treaty, land acquisition, land code, law development and land registry system.
From 2010 to 2013, Angie joined BC Assembly of First Nations as a Policy Analyst, continuing to promote awareness of community governance initiatives and contributing to the BCAFN Governance Toolkit; supporting First Nations to conduct governance self‐assessments and community engagement tools. In June 2013, Angie joined the First Nations Land Management Resource Centre providing support to First Nations under the Framework Agreement, the First Nations Land Management Act and capacity building for Land Management across Canada.
Presented by: Eugene Peterson, Support Technician, FNLM Resource Center
Eugene Peterson is a member of Long Plain First Nation, Manitoba, with over 25 years of experience as a practicing lawyer. Eugene has served as senior legal counsel and lead negotiator in Land Claims, Self- Government negotiations and the establishment of the Treaty Relations Commission of Manitoba. Possessing an Economics degree, he has designed and developed First Nation Constitutions, Election Laws, Land Codes and related laws in a manner that reflects the needs and realities of First Nation communities. Mr. Peterson’s current focus is upon implementing stable governance mechanisms and institutions consistent with binding U.N. Instruments and Canada’s Constitution that support community self-sufficiency.
International and Inter-tribal Trade: Start planning now for tomorrow’s opportunities
Wednesday, September 20 • 2:45pm - 4:15pm Enoch B
Inter-tribal and international trade for indigenous businesses looks promising as various efforts including a possible Aboriginal Chapter to the renewed North American Free Trade Agreement negotiations (currently underway) show promise of possible protection of traditional knowledge and security of a possible protected nation-to-nation trading relationship. As indigenous land claims continue to be settled and as tribes are seeking investment advantages such as establishing Foreign Trade Zones, there is tremendous opportunity for economic development for native peoples and for the communities and businesses with whom they come in contact. This session will explore the efforts being made to build global inter-tribal trade.
What you will learn:
• Trends in inter-tribal and international trade by indigenous businesses
• How your community and aboriginal-owned businesses can benefit from these new trading initiatives
• Sharing of best practices amongst tribes on how to develop better trade relationships
Presented by: Wayne Garnons-Williams, Chair, International InterTribal Trade and Investment Organization
Wayne is Plains Cree Indian, the founding President of International Inter-tribal Trade Organization, Senior Lawyer and Principal Director of the law firm Garwill Law Professional Corporation specializing in Tribal Economic Development, as well as Chair of the Federation of Saskatchewan Indian Nations Appeal Tribunal. He is a board member of Three Feather Corporation, owned by the Mohawk Council of Akwesasne. He is past-Chair of the National Council for Aboriginal Federal Employees and is an active member in the Indigenous Bar Association, the Canadian Bar Association, and the Canadian Council on Aboriginal Business.
First Nations Power Authority Pre-Feasibility Assessment
Wednesday, September 20 • 2:45pm - 4:15pm Enoch E
Participants are invited to this workshop on Pre-Feasibility Assessments. Understanding how renewable energy projects fit into your communities' vision is essential to moving renewables forward in our communities. Often, the problem is not knowing where to begin. In this session, you will learn about what information you need to know before investigating how utility scale energy projects may benefit your community, including information about AESO. We will also provide insight on the process of utility scale projects by highlighting completed projects in the North.
Presented by: Jai Roberts, Renewable Energy Project Manager, FNPA
Jai Roberts is currently the Renewable Energy Project Manager of First Nations Power Authority. Building on his experience in large industrial project management, Jai is responsible for overseeing the implementation of FNPA’s utility-scale power projects. Jai also works with both General and Industry Members in the evaluation of new project opportunities. Jai came to FNPA from Mitsubishi Hitachi Power Systems Canada (MHPSC), where he led its project management team responsible for precision machining and complex manufacturing (weld & fabrication) projects for MHPSC’s hydro, gas and steam turbine customers in Canada, including SaskPower, and around the world.
Blood Tribe Economic Impact Study
Wednesday, September 20 • 2:45pm - 4:15pm Enoch F
Full Workshop Presentation PDF (Click Icon To Download)
The Blood Tribe is a major contributor to the social and economic progress of the people of Southern Alberta. The Tribe commissioned the Economic Development Department and Meyers Norris Penny to prepare a profile of its economic and fiscal impact on the Southern Alberta region.
The study has assessed the economic impact of spending at the Tribe and Tribe-owned business level as well at the Tribe member-owned business level and from the member personal spending perspective. Additionally, in keeping with the Tribe’s desire to become self reliant, potential economic development projects and/or small business opportunities identified throughout this process were captured.
Presented by: Rob Crow, Director, Blood Tribe Economic Development
Rob Crow is a member of the Blood Tribe located in southern Alberta. Rob has received a Management certificate in the BESS program, a Bachelor of Management Degree, and a Masters of Science Degree (Management) from the University of Lethbridge. He also received his Professional Aboriginal Economic Developer (PAED) Certification from the Council for the Advancement of Native Development Officers (CANDO) in 2007.
Rob has been employed by the Blood Tribe for over 20 years. He is currently the Director of the Economic Development Department. In this capacity he is responsible for the overall direction, evaluation, and operations of the various Tribal development initiatives. He was formerly the Director of the Recreation and Parks Department. Rob's prior work experience is in the Auto Body industry, in which he has his journeyman certification.
Rob has served on several Provincial and National boards including being the Alberta representative (3 consecutive - 3 yr. terms) on CANDO. He currently serves on Indigenous Affairs & Northern Affairs (INAC), Lands and Economic Development Advisory Committee and the Economic Development Lethbridge (EDL) Board. Rob was also honored as the EDO of the year by CANDO in 2016.
Panel Discussion - Professional Associations
Thursday, September 21 • 9:00am - 10:00am Enoch CD
aksis - Edmonton’s Aboriginal Business & Professional Association:
Terry Coyes, Member of the Board of DirectorsProudly serving the Aboriginal business community since 1997, Terry Coyes is Métis, from St. Albert, Alberta and is the principal consultant of Coyes & Associates, an independent management consultancy located in Edmonton. Services provided include strategic economic development planning, enterprise development/business planning, project management and feasibility assessments. An active member of the community, Terry volunteers on various boards, enjoys spending time coaching, playing sports and travelling to learn about different cultures with his wife and four children.
Full Workshop Presentation PDF (Click Icon To Download)
Business Link:
Gord Sawatzky, Executive DirectorGord Sawatzky is the Executive Director of Business Link, an organization dedicated to helping people start successful business ventures. Gord has a background in management consulting, where his focus was supporting Indigenous communities in achieving their economic development goals. Over the course of his career, he has held management roles in a number of private, public and non-profit organizations. Gord holds both Bachelor of Arts and Master of Business Administration degrees from the University of Alberta.
Full Workshop Presentation PDF (Click Icon To Download)
National Aboriginal Lands Managers Association (NALMA):
Leona Irons, Executive DirectorLeona Irons is from the Curve Lake First Nation in Ontario and has held the title of Executive Director for the National Aboriginal Lands Managers Association (NALMA) since the organization’s inception in 2000. Leona has over 30 years experience in First Nation Lands Management.
As Executive Director, Leona reports and is accountable to the Board of Directors of the National Aboriginal Lands Managers Association. She is responsible for carrying out NALMA’s mandate and strategic work plan. She manages operations and projects within the parameters of an annual operating work plan and budget.
Alberta Lands and Economic Development Advisory Committee (Alberta LEDAC):
Suzanne Life, Chair Full Workshop Presentation PDF (Click Icon To Download)
Council for the Advancement of Native Development Officers (CANDO):
Ray Wanuch, Executive DirectorBorn in Edmonton, Alberta, raised on the Paddle Prairie Métis Settlement and is of First Nations descent from the Ermineskin Cree Nation. Obtained a Bachelor of Management degree from the University of Lethbridge in 1989; and also possesses the Technician and the Professional Level Certification from Cando. Prior to working with CANDO, was the CEO of Settlement Investment Corporation. Then moved on to facilitate and manage the Métis Settlements Economic Viability Strategy, which received international recognition for sustainable development. Also managed and taught a self‐employment program for the Métis Nation of Alberta.
Volunteer work includes being appointed to the Alberta Water Council by the Métis Settlements General Council; as well as serving as the former Cando Co‐President and Director representing Alberta. Married to Nola Wanuch from the Enoch Cree Nation, and have three wonderful kids: Wendell, Natasha and Sydney, and three wonderful grandsons: Aiden, Nashua, and Taye.
Disasters: Building Response, Recovery & Resilience
Thursday, September 21 • 10:15am - 11:00am Enoch CD
As many communities know, when disaster strikes, services of first responders are essential. However, once they leave and communities start to get back to normal, how do community leaders create and implement effective business and economic recovery efforts?
Land managers and economic development officers can and should play a role in community recovery efforts; however, many do not have the tools or experience to do so.
In this session, delegates will learn about the various types & nature of disasters; better understand community response, recovery and resilience; and gain unique insights and observations about the 2016 Alberta wildfire.
Full Workshop Presentation PDF (Click Icon To Download)
Presented by: Leann Hackman-Carty, CEO, Economic Developers Alberta (EDA)
Leann worked as an Executive Assistant, Community & Economic Development to the Mayor of Calgary for over 10 years and Since 2009, has been the CEO of Economic Developers Alberta (EDA).
In 2014, she led an Economic Disaster Recovery Project in 10 flood impacted communities and Treaty 7 Community Futures (Siksika/Stoney), including 11 technical assistance teams and individual reports. In 2016, after the Fort McMurray wildfires, she established business recovery hotline operations; validated businesses for emergency relief; and led a 10-member technical assistance team, whose final report was released June 2017 with 50+ recommendations on business/economic recovery.
In 2017, she updated the Community Toolkit for Economic Recovery and Resiliency and piloted an Economic Resilience Training for Community and Regional Leaders course in 4 Alberta communities, which will be available to all Canadian communities in 2018
Presented by: Ray Wanuch, Executive Director, CANDO
Born in Edmonton, Alberta, raised on the Paddle Prairie Métis Settlement and is of First Nations descent from the Ermineskin Cree Nation. Obtained a Bachelor of Management degree from the University of Lethbridge in 1989; and also possesses the Technician and the Professional Level Certification from Cando. Prior to working with CANDO, was the CEO of Settlement Investment Corporation. Then moved on to facilitate and manage the Métis Settlements Economic Viability Strategy, which received international recognition for sustainable development. Also managed and taught a self‐employment program for the Métis Nation of Alberta.
Volunteer work includes being appointed to the Alberta Water Council by the Métis Settlements General Council; as well as serving as the former Cando Co‐President and Director representing Alberta. Married to Nola Wanuch from the Enoch Cree Nation, and have three wonderful kids: Wendell, Natasha and Sydney, and three wonderful grandsons: Aiden, Nashua, and Taye.
ATAC/Culture and Tourism/Travel Alberta
Thursday, September 21 • 11:00am - 12:00pm Enoch A
Are your clients interested in tourism? Learn more about the opportunity for Indigenous tourism in Alberta and the resources available to help your clients succeed. From business start-up through market readiness and on to export ready, this session will introduce you to three key tourism organizations available to assist tourism entrepreneurs: Alberta Culture and Tourism, Travel Alberta and the Aboriginal Tourism Association of Canada.
Full Workshop Presentation PDF (Click Icon To Download)
Presented by: Laura McGowan, Tourism Business Development Officer Indigenous, Alberta Culture and Tourism
Laura McGowan has been with the Tourism Division of Alberta Culture and Tourism for nine years. She has been involved in provincial-wide initiatives such as culinary tourism and regional initiatives such as the Crown of the Continent in southwest Alberta. Currently, she is the Indigenous tourism lead working closely with Indigenous operators and associations such as the Aboriginal Tourism Association of Canada to grow Indigenous tourism products across the province. Laura holds a BA Leisure, Tourism and Society specializing in ecotourism and cultural/heritage studies from the University of Calgary and an MSc Responsible Tourism Management from the University of Greenwich, UK
Presented by: Casey Vanden Heuvel, Director, ATAC
Presented by: Lori Beaver, Regional Coordinator, ATAC
Climate Leadership Programs
Thursday, September 21 • 11:00am - 12:00pm Enoch B:
A presentation describing the recently announced seven Alberta Indigenous Climate Leadership programs. In addition, opportunities to link the programs together to maximise the funding available to Indigenous Organizations.
Full Workshop Presentation PDF (Click Icon To Download)
Presented by: Dwayne Lemiski, Team Lead Energy Efficiency, Alberta Indigenous Relations
Dwayne has enjoyed a 22 year career in multiple levels of Government. When employed by the Government of Canada, he worked with the Canada Revenue Agency as an auditor and as a field services officer with Indigenous and Northern Affairs Canada. After a move to the Alberta Government, Dwayne worked in several positions within Municipal Affairs including a policy advisor with Municipal Grants and 9-1-1 coordinator with the Alberta Emergency Management Agency. His current role is Team Lead – Climate Leadership is with Indigenous Relations.
Dwayne has a strong passion for stakeholder relations with respect to accessing government programs and services. A client focus is need to assist stakeholder understanding of programs including application/reporting processes and impacts to their organizations.
RLEMP Presentation
Thursday, September 21 • 11:00am - 12:00pm Enoch E
The Reserve Land and Environmental Management Program is a capacity development program for First Nation lands managers. Lyndon Simmons, manager of Community Lands Development for Indigenous and Northern Affairs Canada has recently concluded a cross country engagement on the program, and has agreed to share the results. If you are interested in lands management, want to know a bit more about the program, are curious about what was said across the country, and want to share some of your own views, then this session is for you.
Full Workshop Presentation PDF (Click Icon To Download)
Presented by: Lyndon Simmons, Manager, INAC
Lyndon Simmons is the manager of the policy team for Community Lands Development at Indigenous and Northern Affairs Canada. His current responsibilities include stakeholder and community engagement for the Reserve Land and Environmental Management Program (RLEMP). He has just completed a cross country tour to seek the feedback of First Nation lands managers on the RLEMP program.
Lyndon was born and raised in Southern Alberta. He completed his bachelor’s degree from the University of Lethbridge in 1999, and has a master’s degree in Public Administration from the University of Victoria with a focus on Education Economics. Lyndon has been working for the Government of Canada in Ottawa since 2002. He loves policy work; and even though he misses the prairie sky, the Chinook, and Taber corn, Lyndon shows up to work every day excited to see what they will throw at him next.
Presented by: Bernice Draper-Hickey
Comprehensive Community Planning (CCP)
Thursday, September 21 Enoch F:
11:00am - 12:00pm (Part 1)1:00pm - 2:30pm (Part 2)
Comprehensive Community Planning has been a best practice for communities in BC and across Canada and has contributed to community growth. It has been attributed to these communities success in their improved success in governance, economic development and community wellness. This workshop will give you an overview of what Comprehensive Community Planning is, indigenous planning practices and community engagement and communication strategies that can be utilized in all aspects of planning.
Presented by: Elaine Alec, Partner, Alderhill
Elaine Alec is a member of the Penticton Indian Band and from the Syilx (Okanagan) and Secwepemc (Shuswap) Nations from the Interior of British Columbia. She has been responsible for setting up and managing a small entertainment and talent recruitment business for the past 17 years. She is an independent planning and community engagement specialist. She has worked in both provincial and federal government for 17 years including the Ministry of Health and the Ministry of Children and Families.
She worked on the Penticton Indian Band's Comprehensive Community Plan (CCP) starting in 2008 and continues to be involved in the implementation of the plan, which involves creating a Land Use Plan through community consultation for the largest reserve in British Columbia. She has mentored 20 communities in British Columbia in the CCP process. She is a keynote and motivational speaker, facilitator and mediator passionate about building community with a foundation of healing and implementing Indigenous Knowledge.
Balancing Business, Politics and Building Sustainability
Thursday, September 21 • 1:00pm - 2:30pm Enoch A
Full Workshop Presentation PDF (Click Icon To Download)
In 2012, Ermineskin Cree Nation (ECN) Leadership initiated a comprehensive economic development review on existing businesses. Nation Leaders envisioned a separation of business and politics and to set up the ECN Corporate Business arm of the Nation. With the assistance of consultants, Neyaskweyahk Group of Companies Inc. (NGCI) was officially launched in March of 2013. NGCI was and is mandated to create employment and transform existing and future businesses into viable and profitable ventures.
NGCI is just over 4 years old and is reporting success in capturing leakage dollars, generating employment and accelerating in their mandate. Keys to the success of NGCI is building good relationships with ECN Leadership and Citizens, integrating Cree values into the governance of the corporation and monitoring and setting high performance standards for the company. The Ermineskin experience in developing a business corporation is a testimony to a Nation taking a central role in rebuilding and supporting strong healthy economies for the benefit of future generations.
Presented by: Samuel Minde, President & CEO, NGCI
Since December of 2014, Mr. Minde has led Neyaskweyahk Group of Companies Inc. (NGCI) as their President and CEO. He holds a Bachelor of Management from Athabasca University and a Masters of Business Administration from Simon Fraser University. Prior to serving as CEO, Mr. Minde was elected and served a term as Councilor for the Ermineskin Cree Nation (ECN) from 2011 – 2014.
Mr. Minde’s 10 years of governance experience is composed of serving on many boards and committees. Notably, Ermineskin Education Trust Fund, National Aboriginal Trust Officers Association, Six Independent Alberta First Nations, INAC Lands and Economic Advisory Committee, Alberta’s Electricity Technical Working Group, and the Pigeon Lake Watershed Association. He also receives and provides advice to the NGCI Board of Directors as their CEO.
Maximizing your Capital Investments: Getting Maximum Benefits for Your Community
Thursday, September 21 • 1:00pm - 2:30pm Enoch B
Have you ever wondered how major community economic projects go from inception all the way to implementation? This session will provide real life ideas on how to create economic development projects that lead to revenue generation and job creation for the community. Funding sources such as the Aboriginal Business Investment Fund (ABIF) and how to make the best use of the grant will also be explored.
Full Workshop Presentation PDF (Click Icon To Download)
Presented by: Chris Tyrkalo, Acting Manager, Capital Programs
Chris is a Business Development Advisor for Alberta Indigenous Relations. In addition to over 10 years of experience in labour force and economic development with the Government of Alberta, Chris has Bachelor’s degrees in Economics and Management and has broad work background in Hospitality & Tourism, Retail and Information Technology fields.
Chris strives to maintain strong relationships with Indigenous communities and business enterprises by providing advisory services and financial pathfinding assisting them in identifying economic development opportunities. He is working to increase the number of Aboriginal-owned enterprises operating in Alberta by helping them to apply to Alberta's Aboriginal Business Investment Fund (ABIF) grant program.
Presented by: Lekan Oladokun, Business Development Advisor, Alberta Indigenous Relations
Lekan Oladokun’s professional career is built on a diverse work experience including commercial banking, wealth management and financial advisory. He brings technical expertise related to project financing, financial analysis, business planning and business valuation. Since joining Alberta Indigenous Relations in August 2016, Lekan has worked with several Indigenous communities providing business development advice on economic development projects and preparing communities for the ABIF annual Call For Proposals.
Lekan earned a Master of Business Administration (MBA) and a Bachelor of Commerce in Finance from the University of Alberta. He currently works with the Government of Alberta as a Business Development Advisor for the Aboriginal Business Investment Fund.
Lands Designation Process
Thursday, September 21 • 1:00pm - 2:30pm Enoch E
The presentation provides a basic overview of how to navigate the land designating process in order to lease reserve lands. It examines the Designation process as set out in sections 37 - 41 as set out in the Indian Act. We will examine the land designation referendum process and what happens after a successful vote.
Full Workshop Presentation PDF (Click Icon To Download)
Presented by: Mitchell Reynaud, Regional Program Development Officer, INAC
Mitchell Reynaud has been an employee of the Federal Government for the past 8 years. Beginning with the CRA, Mitchell moved to INAC in 2011 taking on a variety of roles before joining the Community Opportunities Unit in 2014. Mitchell currently works in the Land Designation and Leasing unit in Community Opportunities as a Regional Program Development Advisor.
Featured Guests:
Rick Lightning, Elder
Born in Morley, Alberta and raised by his parents Albert and Jesse Lightning in a traditional way, Rick Lightning has a strong foundation of Plains Cree cultural knowledge. From a young age, his father, Albert (Buffalo Child) was a traditional Elder and healer taught him about political issues facing Maskwacis Cree and about his people’s traditions and culture.
Rick is a third generation residential school survivor; he attended the residential school at Maskwacis on the Ermineskin Reserve. Rick’s cultural knowledge has played a huge role in his career. He has worked as a counsellor in the fields of alcohol and drug addictions and family remediation and was elected councillor of the Ermineskin Cree Nation, serving from 2004-2007.
Stan Wesley
Artisans:
Jshine Creeations
Heather Poitras
Colleen Tweedle
Kokom Bertha
Marlene Burnstick
Martha Campiou
Alberta Links To Learning 2017 Photos:
This year's Trade Show will feature Exhibitions from:
