Cherie is a partner and national leader of Indigenous law at Borden Ladner Gervais LLP and has an Indigenous law and commercial practice across a wide variety of sectors, including energy and transmission, land development and financing on First Nations lands and economic development. Industry clients in the energy, infrastructure and mining sectors will seek Cherie's counsel when developing projects or partnerships with Indigenous groups and have a need to address constitutionally protected interests of the Indigenous nations with which Canada shares its land and jurisdiction.

Over the last 15 years, Cherie’s involvement in the energy space in Ontario has resulted in several firsts: the first 100% First Nation owned wind power project in Ontario; the first Aboriginal loan guarantee from the Province of Ontario to enable First Nations to develop energy projects; the first major share purchase transaction involving 14.4M shares of a major public utility – Hydro One Limited; and the first public company in Canada (Hydro One) to commit to 50/50 equity partnerships on all major transmission projects over $100M.

A past recipient of the Lexpert Zenith Award; Lexpert's "Rising Stars: Leading Lawyers Under 40." And recent Distinguished Alumni Award from the Faculty of Law at the University of Toronto, Cherie continues to devote her extra time to several work related and personal areas of interest in the public policy, electricity sectors and health and wellness space – all focused on uplifting Indigenous communities and bringing awareness to the unique needs and interests of on reserve First Nations.

She is both Mohawk from Mohawks of the Bay of Quinte and Ojibway from Wikwemkoong Unceded Territory.

Now an independent director for Hydro One Limited since 2018 and Toronto-Dominion Bank since 2021, Cherie is active in advising on policy matters relating to First Nations to enable communities to achieve financial and economic sustainability.

Hillary Thatcher is Managing Director of Investments, leading the CIB’s Indigenous Infrastructure team. In her role, Hillary is responsible for the CIB’s engagement with Indigenous communities, advancing investments in Indigenous infrastructure projects consistent with key priority areas.

Previously Director General of Innovation and Services at Indigenous Services Canada, Hillary spent 15 years with the Ontario government in senior roles across Indigenous Affairs, Energy and Infrastructure, and Natural Resources. Hillary has a proven track record of building linkages among Indigenous, government and industry interests.

Hillary is Métis and has been an active member of the urban Indigenous community of Toronto through her volunteer roles at the Native Canadian Centre of Toronto, Red Sky Performance and the Downie Wenjack Fund.
Hillary graduated from Concordia University in Montreal and the University of Victoria.

Freddie Huppé Campbell (she/they) is a proud Michif Two-Spirit human, urban raised on Ktunaxa Kinbasket territories. They strive to learn and grow in identity, culture, language, art and action. Freddie is the Director of the Energy & Climate team at Indigenous Clean Energy where they work to support community-led clean energy sovereignty and equitable, just climate action on national and global scales.

Mihskakwan James Harper is a proud citizen of Sturgeon Lake Cree Nation in Treaty 8, Alberta. He is currently the Business Development Manager at NRStor Inc., where he champions developing large-scale energy storage and clean microgrid projects in a way that empowers communities and contributes to meaningful climate action.

He is a Board Member with Indigenous Clean Energy and the Pembina Institute. He holds a Bachelor’s in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Manitoba and has recently completed a Master of Science in Renewable Energy from KTH Royal Institute of Technology and Ecole Polytechnique, and the ESADE Business School. He is the co-chair of the SevenGen council, an organization that develops and leads programs for Indigenous youth to lead in clean energy and climate action. He co-hosted the podcast, Decolonizing Power, a series that aims to amplify voices worldwide on how clean energy enables authentic community empowerment.

This experience combined with the 20/20 Catalyst program, he is passionate about the carbon free future, particularly within the power and mobility sectors. He loves his partner, family, and his community, who inspires him to work to build a future that is sustainable and empowers all. 

Under her leadership, the IESO oversees the safe and reliable operation of Ontario's bulk electricity system, ensuring affordable electricity is available when and where people need it.

As part of its mandate to plan and prepare for the future, the IESO works with sector partners to identify energy needs, develop supply options, drive innovation, and harness data and information for decision-making. The IESO also delivers energy efficiency and demand management programs that contribute to the cost-effectiveness and reliability of Ontario’s power system.

Throughout her career, Ms. Gallinger has focused on driving strategic change within complex organizations to deliver shareholder and stakeholder value. Prior to joining the IESO, she served as President and Chief Executive Officer of Elexicon Energy, a large municipally-owned electricity distributor in Ontario, which she led through a sizeable merger integration. She has also held senior roles in the electricity sector that include Chief Strategy and Financial Officer at the Electrical Safety Authority as well as VP, Corporate and Regulatory Affairs and Chief Financial Officer at Oakville Hydro.

Ms. Gallinger sits on several boards, including the Ontario Energy Network where she serves as Vice Chair, and the Nuclear Waste Management Organization. Prior to joining the IESO she also served on the boards of the Ontario Energy Association and the Electricity Distributors Association. She holds a Master of Business Administration from the Schulich School of Business at York University, is a Chartered Professional Accountant and a Certified Public Accountant (Illinois). She has also completed the Chartered Director and Audit Committee Certified program at the DeGroote School of Business, McMaster University.

Willow Fiddler is a national news reporter for The Globe and Mail, covering northern Ontario and Manitoba. Prior to joining The Globe, she was a video journalist for Aboriginal Peoples Television Network National News reporting in Thunder Bay. She is a three-time finalist for the Canadian Association of Journalists awards and the recipient of the 2017 Emerging Indigenous Journalist award. Ms. Fiddler is passionate about stories and issues that impact Indigenous people and communities, particularly in the North.

Ryan MacDonald is the Senior Editor of Climate, Environment and Resources for the Report on Business section at The Globe and Mail.

James is a member of Walpole Island First Nation, where he has previously served as Chief Executive Officer. James led the development of First Nation equity participation in two 100MW wind farms. These and similar experiences led James to become a champion of Indigenous community and business partnerships in clean energy. James holds an M.A. from the University of Texas at Austin and is a former municipal clerk. He has also spent time running a consulting business, Ajijaak Solutions, which provided governance and management support for First Nations and businesses. James is a sessional instructor at Western University’s Public Administration program. He is a proud father of three, a multi-instrumentalist, and an avid outdoorsman who loves camping, boating, hunting, and fishing.

Margaret Pfoh, a proud member of the Tsimshian Nation from the Ginaxgiik tribe (people of the Hemlock), carries the Blackfish crest, symbolizing the powerful killer whale. Margaret has dedicated over 30 years to advocating for Indigenous rights and advancing housing solutions for Indigenous Peoples across Canada. She is CEO of the Aboriginal Housing Management Association (AHMA) and current Board President of the Canadian Housing Renewal Association (CHRA). 

Under her visionary leadership, AHMA has not only solidified its role as a key player in Indigenous housing but also launched innovative, first-of-its-kind initiatives like the URN Strategy, Complex Care Housing, and Rental Protection Fund. These groundbreaking programs have been instrumental in addressing the evolving housing needs of Indigenous communities, paving the way for sustainable, community-driven solutions. 

Margaret’s strategic acumen was integral to the 2019 establishment of the Building BC: Indigenous Housing Fund, a historic partnership between AHMA and the government of British Columbia. This fund extended provincial support to Indigenous Peoples across on-reserve, urban, rural, and northern regions, setting a new standard for Canada.

In 2022, Margaret co-founded the National Indigenous Collaborative Housing Inc. (NICHI), further amplifying Indigenous voices in housing policy and ensuring Indigenous leadership is central to shaping national housing strategies. 

A dynamic leader on national and international stages, Margaret’s influence reaches far beyond AHMA. Her engagements with the United Nations and her leadership roles within the CHRA underscore her commitment to Indigenous housing rights. She continues to champion justice for Indigenous Peoples globally, using her voice to highlight housing as an inherent human right. 

Margaret’s enduring legacy is built not only on her past achievements but also on her forward-looking approach. She ensured that AHMA’s strategic plan aligned with national and international advancements in Indigenous housing. Her work continues to shape policy, partnerships, and the future of Indigenous housing on a global scale.

Andrew Saunders is the President and CEO of The Globe and Mail, overseeing all aspects of Canada's national newspaper, its business magazine, digital advertising network, digital platforms and events and conference lines of business. With over 20 years of experience at The Globe, he brings expertise in revenue generation and management, business transformation, change management and digitization, data analytics & consumer insights, technology implementation, branding and performance marketing, pricing optimization and more.
In his previous role as Chief Revenue Officer at The Globe, Andrew was responsible for shaping the monetization strategy and driving the business transition from print to digital across all facets of the business, including subscription revenue, licensing, advertising sales, events and conference business, data engineering & analytics, digital media/UX and consumer marketing.
Andrew is an active and highly respected figure within the media and advertising community, having served on various industry juries, including the Media Innovation Awards, Marketing Hall of Legends, and the Effie Awards. He is Chair of the Canadian Cannes Advisory Board, a member of the executive team on the IAB board of directors, a board director of the World Association of News Publishers – IFRA supervisory board, and a board member of The Canadian Press and the Advertising Standards of Canada. His voluntary activities include board membership of the United Health Network Foundation and a member of the 2024 United Way Greater Toronto Campaign Cabinet.
In his capacity as President and CEO, Andrew Saunders is dedicated to maintaining The Globe and Mail’s journalistic excellence and steering it towards innovation in the ever-evolving media landscape.

Janna Wale is Gitxsan from Gitanmaax First Nation and is also Cree-Métis on her mother’s side. Wale holds a bachelor of Natural Resource Sciences (B. Nrsc.) from Thompson Rivers University, and a MSc in Sustainability from UBC Okanagan, where her work focused on climate resilience in Indigenous communities, using a seasonal rounds model. She currently works as the Indigenous Research and Partnerships Lead at the Pacific Institute for Climate Solutions (PICS).

In 2023, Wale was the recipient of the Anitra Paris Memorial Award for female youth climate leadership through Clean Energy BC. She also published two reports in collaboration with the Yellowhead Institute and was named as an Indigenous Trailblazer through Diversity in Sustainability. In 2024, she was a finalist for the Community Advocate of the year award through Foresight Canada and was selected for a Community Award – Emerging Leader through the B.C. Achievement foundation.

Matt Jamieson is a proud member of the Tuscarora Nation and resident of Six Nations of the Grand River, Canada’s most populated First Nation.

As Chief Executive Officer, Matt leads SNGRDC investment strategy, operations, and asset management. SNGRDC has developed numerous partnerships with some of Canada’s largest and most respected private and publicly traded companies.

Under his leadership, SNGRDC has built a $100+ million portfolio and participated in the construction of $3 billion of infrastructure assets. Since inception, SNGRDC has generated $250 million of direct economic impact for Six Nations of the Grand River.

Matt holds a Post-Bachelor’s in Management, an MBA from Athabasca University and is a graduate of the ICD-Rotman Directors Education Program. Matt also serves as an Executive-in-residence at the Rotman Business School and an Executive fellow at the Ivey Energy Policy & Management Centre.

Gerry graduated from the Native Land Management Program at Cambrian College in 1998 and started working for Dokis First Nation in 2003-2006 In 2010, he returned home to Dokis First Nation where he took on the position as the Consultation Coordinator for all matters in and around Dokis’ Traditional Territory. In 2010, he was the lead in passing the Dokis Land Code, the Ratification Officer for the Okikendawt Hydro Project and the Okikendawt Hydro Trust. Verifier for the Ratification Process of the Framework Agreement for First Nation Land Management. A Mentor for the Indigenous Clean Energy 20/20 Catalyst Program. First elected to Dokis Council in 2012, then Deputy Chief in 2014, Elected as Chief in 2016 now serving his 4th term.

Jason Schulz, Executive Director Strategic Advisory Services, has been with the Athabasca Chipewyan First Nation (ACFN) since 2017. Jason's background encompasses Indigenous business, infrastructure projects and investments, business development and governance, community engagement, marketing, human resources and education.

Jason ensures corporate governance practices are aligned while serving as Director (President) on the Tahsipiy pipeline partnership that closed on November 30, 2021. In addition, he continues to play an active role in monitoring progress during construction of three merchant solar farms in the ACFN-Concord Pacific partnership. He continues to serve as Director, Chair and President of the Indigenous Communities General Partnership, representing ownership interests of the Athabasca Chipewyan First Nation, Bigstone Cree First Nation, Mikisew Cree First Nation, and Sucker Creek First Nation in Alberta PowerLine. Jason currently serves as Secretary for Three Nations Energy, an organization where the Athabasca Chipewyan First Nation, Mikisew Cree First Nation and Fort Chipewyan Metis Association partnered with ATCO Electric to establish Canada’s first and largest off-grid solar farm.

As the Executive Director of Strategic Advisory Services for ACFN, Jason is responsible for overseeing higher level strategic priorities and long-term infrastructure projects. Jason collaborates with ACFN Chief and Council, CEO, and senior management team to foster economic and community development. Jason has been instrumental in accessing funding for ACFN capital projects and developing a strong network of Nation and Industry partnerships.

Steven Crowchild is a Tsuut’ina Isgiya, father, and a current elected member of the Tsuut’ina Nation Xakujaa-yina/Chief and Council. Prior being elected to leadership in 2019, Steven served the Tsuut’ina Nation in the capacity of Education Services Agreement Coordinator for the Tsuut’ina Education Department, where he worked to improve student outcomes through the development of innovative approaches to education, as well as advocating for improved student services through service agreements.
Steven has also played an integral role in Tsuut’ina language revitalization efforts through his work with the Tsuut’ina Gunaha Institute, where he began working in 2012, and served in various capacities, including Director from 2014 – 2018. Under his leadership, the program evolved to fill the need for language and culture revitalization on the Nation.
Over the years, Steven has been directly involved in developing and piloting various initiatives and projects such as app development, curriculum development, culture camps, language nest, mentor-apprentice initiative, animation, film projects, and professional development initiatives and recording projects. Steven continues to build the community to its full potential and build initiatives for resource sovereignty and land and water rights protection.

Sarain Fox is a storyteller. She blends her talents as a dancer, choreographer, activist, television host, and filmmaker. She harnesses these diverse mediums to amplify the voices of her indigenous community and foster meaningful dialogue between indigenous and settler communities. Sarain has emerged as a prominent figure in the realm of branding and marketing. She is a passionate advocate for meaningful representation, serving as a Nike N7 ambassador and Canada Goose, Goose Person. She has also dedicated nearly a decade to collaborating with Manitobah Mukluks. Through her work, she has skillfully utilized Indigenous representation and narratives to showcase the rich tapestry of Indigenous fashion and expertise to a global audience. Sarain has made notable contributions to the screen, with credits including Rise (Viceland), Cut-Off (Viceland), and APTN’s Future History. Her documentary film ""Inendi"" (CBC Gem, 2020) garnered critical acclaim, earning her a Canadian Screen Award nomination for Best Host or Interviewer in a News or Information Program. In 2024, Sarain won a Canadian Screen Award for Best Host or Interviewer, News or Information for VeraCity: Indigiqueer. Sarain also made HERstory as the first guest judge to grace the stage on multiple occasions across various seasons of Canada's Drag Race and Canada vs. the World.

Matt McClearn is an investigative reporter and data journalist with The Globe and Mail’s Energy, Natural Resources and Environment Team. He specializes in complex, data-informed projects relating to energy and environmental matters, and particularly the electricity sector. He worked as a business journalist for many years prior to joining The Globe in 2015.

Claire Sault was elected Chief on December 9, 2023, and served on the Missisaugas of the Credit Council through a bi-election since October 22, 2022. She formerly worked as the CEO of Northwind Business Development, a company wholly owned by Caldwell First Nation. Prior, Chief Sault served as the CEO for Kettle & Stony Point First Nation Administration with a large staff. During the Covid pandemic, Ms. Sault worked in a consulting capacity and prior to that, served as CEO of Noozhoo Nokiyan Limited Partnership owned by the Mississaugas of Scugog Island First Nation. She was the President of a non-profit in California called Divine Choices and Vice President and Director of Human Resources for a large public company and its subsidiary called First American Trust. Both, in the United States.

She was born and raised on the Mississaugas of the Credit First Nation with deep roots and strong ties to her mother’s First Nation (Six Nations) as well. After returning to Canada, she functioned in various consultative capacities including working with a First Nation in Saskatchewan. Prior to moving to the United States though, she gained experience within various Aboriginal agencies, including tourism, addictions treatment, First Nation governments and various service organizations.

As President of a non-profit and services company, from 2007 through 2013; she travelled extensively promoting the mission and cause of child sexual abuse prevention through public speaking engagements, social media, and TV commercials.
She’s also an author and co-author of various papers, teaching materials and a book called “The Lie That Binds”.

Gary Smith is from Naicatchewenin First Nation and is an Aftercare Clinician, specializing in Trauma-Based Healing.

Gary is passionate about learning and creating opportunities to break barriers. Gary has 15+ years experience in Facilitation and Master of Ceremonies which includes National Gatherings such as NICWA, Mino Bimaadiziwin Conference, Cultural Services Camp/Land-based Learning and Pow Wows across Canada and the US.

Gary embodies the spirit of grassroots advocacy, cherishing the Anishinaabe language and advocating for the preservation of indigenous ways of life. His passion lies in passing down the knowledge of living off the land and safeguarding the rights of indigenous communities. His advocacy serves as a beacon of hope for future generations, inspiring others to embrace and protect the rich traditions and rights of indigenous peoples.

Melina Laboucan-Massimo is Lubicon Cree. She was born in her community of Little Buffalo, Treaty 8 territory in Northern Alberta. She has worked on social, environmental and climate justice issues for the past 20 years.

Melina is the founder and Executive Director of Sacred Earth Solar. Melina is a co-founder of Indigenous Climate Action and was the inaugural Indigenous Fellow at the David Suzuki Foundation where her research focused on Climate Change, Indigenous Knowledge and Renewable Energy. She is the host of a TV series called Power to the People which profiles renewable energy in Indigenous communities across Canada.

Melina holds a Masters degree in Indigenous Governance at the University of Victoria with a focus on energy transition and governance. As a part of her Masters thesis, Melina implemented a 20.8 kW solar installation in her home community of Little Buffalo in the heart of the tar sands which powers the health centre. She is the lead author on the Indigenous Justice Transition Guide.

Melina has studied, campaigned and worked in Brazil, Australia, Mexico, Canada and across Europe focusing on resource extraction, climate change impacts, energy transition, media literacy and Indigenous rights & responsibilities. In 2021, Melina was named one of the 26 Climate Champions in Canada by the Canada Climate Law Initiative. She also received the Canadian Eco-Hero Award in 2019 by Planet in Focus.

Crystal Nicholas is known for her robust expertise in leadership, training, and economic development. Currently serving as the Interim General Manager at Wskijinu’k Mtmo’taqnuow Agency Ltd. (WMA), she skillfully coordinates and manages the executive functions of the organization. Her role involves developing strategic plans for 13 Chiefs and overseeing various projects aimed at economic development.

Prior to this, Crystal spent many years leading the development of Potlotek First Nation through various roles including Acting Economic Development Manager, Chief Financial Officer, and Chief Executive Officer.

Her academic background is equally impressive, with a Certificate in Management Essentials and Negotiation Mastery from Harvard Business School, an ongoing JD Program at Dalhousie University, and a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science from Cape Breton University. Crystal's additional skills include team building, financial management, accounting, bookkeeping, analytical problem solving, project management, and effective leadership and communication.

Crystal is a member of Potlotek First Nation. 

Robert Burns is the Manager of SevenGen Energy, he assists the SevenGen Youth Council in supporting Indigenous youth advance a sustainable and equitable energy future.

Robert is from the Gitxsan and Heiltsuk First Nation and is currently in his final year of Indigenous Studies at the University of British Columbia. Having spent the last ten years in youth programming and community development his focus has been on building relations. Understanding the conflicts of living in two worlds, Robert grew up outside of his community and has been navigating the connection to his nations and living in western society. Currently a participant in the Audible Indigenous Writers’ Circle, his writing has focused on Indigenous resistance, exploring identity and the relationship to our ancestors. Bending space and time to understand our relations to kin, community and land. An advocate for Indigenous youth, as manager of SevenGen Energy he is focused on supporting the next generation of Indigenous youth stewarding our relationship to land.

National Chief Cindy Woodhouse Nepinak was born and raised in Pinaymootang First Nation, Manitoba. Her ancestor, Chief Richard Woodhouse, was an original signatory of Treaty No.2. She began her term as National Chief of the Assembly of First Nations on December 7, 2023, becoming the youngest woman and mother to hold the position.

National Chief Woodhouse Nepinak holds a Bachelor of Arts degree from the University of Winnipeg and has completed Harvard Business School’s Tribal Leaders program.

In 2021, she was elected as the Regional Chief for the AFN Manitoba Region. During her tenure, she was the lead negotiator for the First Nations Child and Family Services and Jordan’s Principle class action lawsuit, which resulted in over $40 billion compensation for First Nations children and families.

Throughout her career, National Chief Woodhouse Nepinak has accumulated a wealth of experience lobbying the Senate, House of Commons, Cabinet Ministers, and the Prime Minister’s Office to fulfill mandates from Chiefs. She continues to advocate for First Nations priorities, as directed by the First Nations-in-Assembly collaboratively with First Nations leadership, to protect collective rights–Treaty, inherent rights, title and jurisdiction, the right to self-determination, and all human rights.

Søren is a local islander – born and raised on Samsø in Denmark. He has been the driving force in the transition towards 100% renewable energy for the entire island. Samsø was elected to be the Danish renewable energy island back in 1997. Søren was the first employed staff member, and he has been involved in all stages of the booming energy transformation.

Søren is a farmer of education, but most importantly, he is a local that coordinates with other farmers and citizens of the island to get involved and engaged in the transition through joint ownership and responsible participation. Yimby – “yes, in my back yard” is short for the acceptance of windmills and other installations in your neighbourhood.

Today, Søren is leading the Samsø Energy Academy – a place for learning, meeting, and networking for the future energy transition. Søren works locally and globally as a writer, speaker, and organizer.

Ancestral name: Aura Akoshua Balanta, Afro-Colombian, Aura made her rematriation to Africa in the Ewe nation in the traditional area of Avatime, Volta Region, Ghana. She has a Bachelor's degree in Performing Arts from the National Pedagogical University of Colombia, specialised in Public Policy and Gender Justice from the Latin American Council of Social Sciences.

She is a Decolonial artist, creator of educational strategies for ethnic-feminine reparations in the Global South, and Co-founder of the Glocal Grassroots Movement of Movements Foundation. She was the International Coordinator of the South Abya Yala Affinity Network, the International Network of Scholars and Activists for Afrikan Reparations (INOSAARREPAFRIKA) and ex member of the All-Party Parliamentary Group on African Reparations (APPGAR, UK).

She was also a young accompanist of the peace processes of the Truth Commission in Colombia as a member of the: We are Generation of Truth Network and the Re-Connecting Laboratories of Truth and Reconciliation in the Womb of Mother Earth project.

Sierra Bein is a multimedia journalist who joined The Globe after working for the National Post, Financial Post and VICE Canada. You can find more of her work in Toronto Life, VICE news, The Eyeopener and CANADALAND. Prior to her work in journalism, she was also a piano teacher and skateboarding coach.

Jason Rioux has a proven track record in developing and operating all forms of energy projects, especially carving new paths through complex energy markets, contracting, and regulatory environments. As Chief Development Officer of NRStor, Jason leads NRStor’s project development activities, and thrives on the challenge of marrying new storage technologies with new commercial business models with utilities and Indigenous communities -- a key success factor in developing energy storage projects. From Flywheels, to Compressed Air on Salt Caverns, to 1000’s of Tesla Powerwalls in homes across Canada, and to the recent 1000 MWh Oneida battery project - Jason has done it all. Previously the Director of Business Development for Ontario Power Generation, Jason led a wide variety of business development initiatives and played a large role in decarbonizing the Ontario power sector.

Don has 30 years experience building agreements between First Nation governments and economic development corporations, project proponents, and Crown agencies, together with extensive global experience with environmental assessments, socio-economics, traditional ecological knowledge, and enhancing community well-being. Don optimizes economic development and environmental protection for major projects, thereby supporting First Nation ownership and co-development. Areas of expertise include economic development & partnership structuring, business planning, and project impact assessment. Sectors include energy, nuclear, mining, and infrastructure development projects. Don has been working for the Mississaugas of Scugog Island First Nation for 3 years.

Alexandra is a Nakota Wiya (woman) mixed with French descent belonging to Cega’Kin (Carry the Kettle) First Nation on Treaty 4 Territory in Saskatchewan, Canada. Driven by a passion for advancing Indigenous resurgence in climate and energy, she has dedicated her career to enabling pathways toward socio-economic equity and restoration of sustainable, healthy, and culturally rich livelihoods for all kin through Indigenous-led partnerships and project that resonate with community. Alexandra holds a Bachelor of Science in Chemical Engineering, which was sparked by an interest in continuously searching for the equilibrium between Indigenous perspectives of natural law and western sciences.

Currently, Alexandra holds a Director role at Indigenous Clean Energy, providing leadership to programs that empower Indigenous young people (ages 18-30) to participate in clean energy projects through project grants, technical mentorship, wrap-around supports, and internship opportunities. Alexandra established ICE’s innovative ImaGENation program in partnership with Student Energy and SevenGen Indigenous Youth Council, provides strategic leadership to ICE’s Generation Power program, while contributing to the development of ICE’s organizational goals and objectives. Alexandra is honored to support and include the voices of young, Indigenous trailblazers, wholeheartedly believing in their ability to reclaim an energy future rooted in ancestral values.

Grounded by an immense love for family, community, and the land, Alexandra strives to embody the Oceti Sakowin principle of “Mitakuya-Oyasin” (All My Relations), a philosophy that means all things created on earth and in the universe are related and inhabit a shared space, and as such, all things hold a responsibility to discover a purpose that ensures all our relatives thrive in our shared space. In her personal time, she expresses her creative spirit through jazz and R&B songwriting, beading, exploring the outdoors, photography and fashion, attempting to cook new recipes, and reading Indigenous literature to nurture cultural connectiveness.

Daniel Secord is from the Mississauga Nation (Nishinaabek), of The Three Fires Confederacy People. Mizizaagiik who originate from the Greater Toronto areas and the many lakes, waterways around these areas in Ontario. He is of the Mukwa dodem (clan), was raised and lives in The Mississaugas of the Credit First Nation with his children. A single parent, Daniel is active in community activities, local businesses and organizations. He is a graduate of The Banff Centre for the Performing Arts, Fanshawe College and McMaster University. He has spent his entire life participating in First Nations’ Traditional Song, Dance, and Culture and has proudly been involved in The North American Indigenous Games, The Pan Am Games & Para Pan Am Games, the Special Olympics, multiple Winter Games, and The Winter Olympics in Canada. As well as carrying the Olympic torch to light the caldron at The Temple of Athena in Sicily, Italy for North America. He has toured across Canada, USA, Italy and South Korea. His other interests are learning and participating in the revitalization of his language, Nishinaabemowin, attending Powwows, Socials, Ceremonies and most importantly being a Dad. Daniel currently is managing 2 First Nations businesses with his family in New Credit First Nation. These small businesses are Nishinaabek owned and operated, independently on the MNCFN. The later business, is a First Nation Art, Craft, Materials, Regalia Making Store and Gallery.

Chief Erica Beaudin (she/her) is a Nehiyaw/Metis woman from the Cowessess First Nation on Treaty Four territory, and a dedicated grandmother, mother, wife, aunt, niece, cousin, and kin to many. Her academic background includes education in Women’s/Gender Studies, Indigenous Communication, and two designations in Indigenous Business Administration and Sovereignty. However, it is her lifelong learning from Indigenous Knowledge Keepers, spiritual leaders, and matriarchs that has profoundly shaped her role as Chief.

Elected as Chief in 2023, Erica has been a respected advocate with a deep commitment to community service and social justice. Before assuming her role as Chief, she demonstrated exceptional leadership in the nonprofit sector, notably through her transformative work at Regina Treaty/Status Indian Services (RTSIS). There, she expanded the organization into a significant force for community empowerment. Since her election as Chief of Cowessess First Nation, she has championed economic development and serves as the chair of the board for Cowessess Ventures LTD. She also has oversight of the Awasis Nehiyawewini Energy Development, which includes the Community Solar Net-Metering Project, Awasis Solar Project, Bekevar Yôtin Project, and Seven Stars Wind Energy Project.

Erica’s leadership is characterized by her advocacy for the inherent and treaty rights of children, youth, and families, reflecting her profound dedication to ensuring their well-being is prioritized in all aspects of community development. Her approach blends compassion with practical wisdom, harmonizing traditional values with contemporary insights to guide Cowessess First Nation into a new era of growth and progress. Her tenure is marked by a relentless commitment to cultural revitalization, redemption, and fostering strong partnerships among Indigenous communities, understanding that collaborative efforts are crucial for achieving shared goals and advancing collective well-being.