Spirit Statement

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As a daughter of two residential school survivors, I am passionate about improving the lives of Indigenous people through change and providing opportunity.

Throughout my career in Indigenous relations, I have witnessed two major barriers to reconciliation: racism and lack of knowledge. I have made a personal commitment to help overcome these barriers. I am driven to bridge the knowledge gap between employees, companies, and Indigenous communities. My understanding of the relationship between Canada and First Nations is influenced both by my personal experiences growing up in a city and maintaining strong connections to my Wiikwemkoong Unceded First Nation roots. Walking a path in both worlds has allowed me to develop a confidence navigating reconciliation with my colleagues and clients.

I have spent many years in the energy sector, building positive personal working relationships with Indigenous communities and individuals. By working closely with communities in the sector, I have been able to promote Indigenous economic development and reconciliation in many ways.

 

I have supported economic inclusion by supporting changes to the way Indigenous businesses participate in the procurement of goods and services. I have supported Indigenous/non-Indigenous relationship development by designing and implementing community engagement activities that respected Aboriginal and Treaty rights. I personally believe that relationships require personal attention and I am always commit to being attentive, responsive, and respectful in all of my interactions.

I am proud of the work I have contributed to in assisting with the negotiation of true partnership agreements with four First Nations communities on the partial ownership of two transmission lines. I am also proud of my educational accomplishments, obtaining my law degree, specializing in Aboriginal law and my Master of Law in Energy and Infrastructure.

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