Topic: BUSINESS

After saving for years, taking out student loans and hundreds of hours spent in lectures hunched over term papers, many students are finally finishing their university or college programs to only enter a bleak workplace that has been decimated by the COVID-19 pandemic.

New grads, and those who have lost their jobs amid the pandemic, are facing a tough labour market in the wake of ongoing lockdown measures and company cutbacks.

But while the prospects may look grim, some of Canada’s best minds in business say job hunters should be looking to take advantage of the situation to set themselves apart from the crowd.

BNN Bloomberg spoke with some of Canada’s top chief executives for their advice to those on the job hunt during challenging economic times.

Jim Pattison, chairman and CEO, The Jim Pattison Group

“I would go into something that I like – I wouldn’t go into something that is necessarily the most money at the minute. I would go into something that I really enjoyed and that I could grow in.

I would continue to get the best education I could, as long as I could afford to go, that’s what I would do. Once you get your education, you know, it’s an easy load to carry so the more education that you get, the stronger that I would encourage young people to stay with it as long as they could. And the ones that decided that they can’t for whatever reason or don’t wish to, then I would recommend that they go into a business that they really will enjoy being in.”

Don Walker, CEO, Magna International Inc.

“What you did during the pandemic lockdown is a question interviewers may ask graduates looking for their first job.  You can look at situations like this as a problem or an opportunity.  Employers want motivated, high-energy, positive problem-solvers. 

Hopefully you took the time to decide what is important to you, decide how to get there, develop a plan and stay focused.  We all have limited time.  Having a plan for your life and moving forward is critical.  But you also must be flexible and be ready to pivot by taking the skills you’ve learned and applying them in a new way.”

Bruce Flatt, CEO, Brookfield Asset Management Inc.

“Many great businesses and careers are launched or reimagined in times of dislocation. Those starting out in their careers today have an incredible opportunity to initiate the next wave of innovation and successful businesses as we come out of this.

We always tell young people not to underestimate the importance of perseverance in periods of adversity, and of focusing on both the opportunities that change brings, and on the positive impact they can have on the world.”

Heather Reisman, CEO, Indigo Books & Music Inc.

“Try to find an opportunity in a company whose mission you admire – and whose leadership team you admire.  Be willing to take any job to start if it is at a company you really want to work for and then bring your very best self to work every day.  People with talent and a real passion to contribute always get recognized and grow quickly in quality organizations. 

In uncovering job opportunities – use whatever ‘network’ you have – profs, family, friends, a person you know at your favourite brand.  Don’t be shy – people are generally very happy to help!”

Mark Little, president and CEO, Suncor Energy Inc.

“In your career, you’re going to be faced with things that go really well and things that don’t. Being resilient while handling failures will set you apart from others. Pick yourself up, dust yourself off and move on by focusing on developing the skills you lack. COVID has just emphasized how important this is!

Curiosity and creativity are also key. Everything you work on is a piece of a much bigger puzzle. Take the initiative to expand your understanding of how everything connects. People who are able to see four or five steps ahead are able to come up with super innovative solutions.”

Nancy Southern, chair and CEO, ATCO Ltd.

“Your graduation represents the key to your future. Your future success, however, will continue to be based on the same characteristics and qualities that allowed you to graduate during this difficult time: hard work and perseverance.

I encourage each of you to dream big, stay curious and courageous, never give up and strive for the highest standards in all that you do. I wish you the best of success, good health and much happiness.”

JJ Ruest, president and CEO, Canadian National Railway Co.

“I would encourage anyone looking for work to look at where economic trends are heading, and then try to ride the trend. For instance, the North American economy is slowly moving away from manufacturing and progressively heading to a service-based economy, which leads to career opportunities in industries that enable that shift. International trade, e-commerce, and advanced carbon-efficient supply chains are more critical than ever, offering new and uncharted career experiences for those who seek them.

I also always encourage people to bet on the economic enabling infrastructures that will always be needed, but to do so through the lens of: ‘How can technology enhance them?’ In a time when tech ‘disruptors’ are changing the face of business at an accelerated pace, what are the businesses that are leveraging those innovations to improve the way they are doing business? Knowing how to improve your operations, even if they are centuries young, is the key to prospering and a smart way to grow.”

Dave McKay, president and CEO, Royal Bank of Canada

“As we’ve seen this year, change is needed in so many aspects of our society – on building a more inclusive society, on combatting climate change, on reimagining how we educate and train our workforce, and how we protect the health and well-being of our communities, education and on healthcare.

I’m incredibly confident the skills this year’s graduates across the country have gained at school will not remain on the sidelines, especially because the world moves much faster than it did when I joined RBC as a young co-op student many years ago.

My advice to every grad out there is if you see a problem, don’t wait for someone else to solve it. If you see change is needed in society, reimagine a better future, and then take the lead. Our world has never needed the curiosity and contributions of new post-secondary grads more.”

Courtesy of: BNN Bloomberg

BC Bud Set for Sale in 2020

Burns Lake-based Nations Cannabis is set to become the first Indigenous band in British Columbia to operate a licensed Cannabis growing facility. A leader in the Indigenous cannabis business, Nations Cannabis is currently going through the late-stage federal licensing process. Their goal is to be fully approved, operational, growing and marketing its product as early as possible in 2020.

Former Burns Lake First Nation Chief and Municipal Councillor Wesley Sam is a company founder and executive co- chair of the fully Indigenous-controlled production company. “We started the application process to acquire a standard cultivation license through Health Canada last August, through the Navigator program – which guides all applicants,” said Sam. “We are a late-stage applicant. We recently received word that a high-level review of the application has been completed. That’s a positive sign, indicating the application is moving through the process as planned and there are no areas of concern.

Sam insisted that the company be based in Burns Lake to ensure that the company was developed through an Indigenous-lens, which encompasses more than simply growing cannabis. The Indigenous-lens philosophy means ensuring the local economy and Indigenous people in the region benefit from a social and economic standpoint. Nations Cannabis will provide jobs with wages necessary to support a family, return 5 percent of earnings to meaningful social and economic impacts for local communities and Indigenous populations, and develop health and education partnerships with lasting benefits. Operating through an Indigenous lens also means not going public.

Sam says that full-time employees are still needed in Horticulture and Plant Maintenance; Facility Maintenance; Finishing and Packaging; HVAC and Mechanical; Agricultural Pest Management; Business Administration and IT; Quality Assurance and Control; and Security and Storage. These positions are in addition to the employment opportunities associated with construction and the re-purposing of the Burns Lake Specialty Wood Building that has sat empty for years. Phase I should see up to 50 hires within the first year.

Once construction of the cultivation facility has been completed, Nations will move into the next stage of the process, which involves providing an “Evidence Package” demonstrating the building and appropriate security systems meet mandated requirements. The next stage involves growing product for the purpose of providing samples to Health Canada – Evidence Control – to ensure they meet all required guidelines and standards. It is at that point that a license would be granted. And of course, once a license is granted, there is an ongoing monitoring and inspection process.

Burns Lake is a northern interior community with a population of approximately 2,000 people located at the junction of Highways 35 and 36, which carries thousands of people to the town for shopping, banking and other needs. Six local First Nations call the region home – Burns Lake; Cheslatta Carrier; Lake Babine; Nee Tahi Buhn; Skin Tyee; and Wet’suwet’en). The cultivation facility is not on reserve land but is on First Nations land owned by the Burns Lake Native Development Corporation, which has six directors, one from each local First Nation band.

The community’s proud tradition and history has been put to the test by the downturn in the forest industry, which has been the lifeblood of the region for many years. This makes the development of Nations Cannabis more important because of the role it can play in providing jobs with wages suitable to support a family.

Sam says that Burns Lake fully backs Nations Cannabis. “We have consulted with and have received the support of Burns Lake and the Regional District, and are meeting zoning requirements and obtaining building permits,” says Sam. “We have consulted with neighbours who are near the cultivation facility, hosted a community meet and greet in April, and continue to reach out to groups and organizations in the region. We also have the support of the local First Nations [all of which own shares in Nations] and support of the Burns Lake Native Development Corporation.”

Sam and his business colleagues attended the recent Assembly of First Nations (AFN) Cannabis Summit in Vancouver. First Nations Drum asked Sam to share feedback his team received from other First Nation leaders and business operators.

“I believe First Nations want to be a part of this industry because they can see some possibilities for addressing issues like employment and poverty through this form of economic development,” says Sam. “But they also understand there are significant hurdles they need to overcome to get there, including a long and extensive application process, the need for capital, and a solid business plan.”

On a national level, there are currently three First Nations in the cannabis-growing business. This includes the Akwesasne Mohawk Nation, who, in 2018, retrofitted an 84,000 sq. ft. former bottling plant located on their land and began producing medical and recreational weed.

Akwesasne’s cannabis business is 100 percent band owned and has 75 employees. Business has been good and the band plans to expand to a 100,000 sq. ft. facility in the near future. Opaskwayak Cree Nation (OCN), located next to The Pas in Manitoba, is another First Nation community that’s gotten into the weed business. They partnered with National Access Cannabis (NAC), in a 51/49 company ownership split. OCN and NAC focus on the recreational segment of the business and sell their products in NAC’s Meta Cannabis Supply Co. stores. They recently opened a dispensary in the OCN providing jobs for 12 Opaskwayak. The Siksika Nation in Southern Alberta hold Canada’s second largest reserve in land mass. Siksika’s goal is for 100 percent ownership.

Some people believe that cannabis use leads to hard and addicting drugs. First Nations Drum asked Sam if Nations Cannabis has programs in place to teach the positive health aspects of cannabis and also address addictions issues. Sam said that Nations Cannabis’ goal is to do more than simply grow cannabis and addressing the question of addiction is part of their mission. “We will be returning 5 percent of earnings to provide meaningful social and economic impacts for local communities and Indigenous populations,” says Sam. “That will include health and educational partnerships with Carrier Sekani Family Services and First Nations Health Authority [in-progress]. Education, as it pertains to cannabis and addiction issues, will be a focal point. We are also establishing a Memorandum of Understanding to pursue education and Cannabis Cultivation Facility in Burns Lake
research opportunities with the University of Northern BC, and this may also be an area of collaboration.”

Sam says that on a broader level, they feel Nations Cannabis can play an important role in providing natural alternative treatments to serious health issues and conditions that are prevalent in many Indigenous communities, not the least of which is Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). “We are keenly interested to further understand the potential health benefits of Cannabis and in any research Health Canada undertakes that may show the benefits of cannabis in treating other ailments and conditions,” says Sam. “We will be taking direction from Health Canada on medically approved treatments based on their approved research findings.”

The Indigenous perspective, says Sam, is to recognize that people are dying every day from opioids and First Nations have a duty to explore alternatives. “While not a solution to the systemic problems of health among Indigenous Peoples, Nations Cannabis can be part of the solution for treating and advocating for its People,” says Sam. “We feel Nations Cannabis will provide a strong return on investment and have all the building blocks in place to be successful, and in doing so, create some tangible and positive benefits for Indigenous Peoples in the community and region.”

Canadian Council for Aboriginal Business – Research. Indigenous-owned small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) are showing that they are highly adept at breaking into foreign markets, according to a new report jointly released by the Canadian Council for Aboriginal Business (CCAB) and the Office of the Chief Economist of Global Affairs Canada (OCE-GAC).

The report, Indigenous-owned Exporting SMEs in Canada, finds that, based on CCAB survey data, nearly a quarter (24%) of Indigenous SMEs operating in Canada export. The rate of participation of all Canadian SMEs in foreign markets is 12%. This should be viewed as a great point of pride for the estimated 50,000 Indigenous-owned businesses operating within every single one of Canada’s provinces and territories. The data also shows that non-exporting Indigenous SMEs were twice as likely to report competition as an obstacle to growth than exporting Indigenous SMEs. Similarly, 42% of non-exporting Indigenous SMEs reported overall economic conditions as being a greater obstacle to growth compared to 34% of their exporting counterparts. This suggests that Indigenous-owned small and medium-sized enterprises that export appear to be able to overcome competition and tough economic conditions locally, allowing for growth.

The Canadian Council for Aboriginal Business and the Trade Commissioner Service are both committed to the success of Indigenous enterprises at home and abroad. Networking programs, numerous resources, and business insights when it comes to navigating international markets are just a couple ways these organizations can help indigenous businesses reach their full potential. 

“Indigenous-owned businesses have exceptional growth potential in export markets,” says JP Gladu, CCAB’s president and CEO. “Recognition of this potential by OCE-GAC sends a powerful message to the federal government about the need for new policies and programs to address the challenges slowing international expansion by Indigenous SMEs.” 

The most popular destination market of Indigenous exporters is the United States, with approximately 21.5% of Indigenous SMEs selling goods or services to our southern neighbour. Interestingly, one in seven exporting Indigenous-owned businesses do not export to the United States, rather these SMEs are in other international markets. Indigenous SMEs have demonstrated that they are engaged in global exports and do not just export to the U.S. due to its proximity. The ability for these businesses to expand into the global market is an indicator of their success. In fact, Indigenous-owned SMEs exporting and operating out of Australia, South America, and Canada alike have the potential opportunity to foster and develop global indigenous relationships and prosperity for their communities. 

For almost 125 years, the Trade Commissioner Service (TCS) has been helping companies navigate international markets. Canadian trade commissioners, located in more than 160 cities worldwide, can provide Canadian companies with key business insights and access to an unbeatable network of international contacts. 

The Chief Trade Commissioner, Ailish Campbell, says the Trade Commissioner Service “is ready to do all that it can to assist export-ready Indigenous businesses that are looking to sell their products and services around the world.”

Internationalization is a strategy for business growth and there is a myriad of information available for businesses who believe global trade is the next step for the success of their company. For more information visit the Canadian Council for Aboriginal Business at www.ccab.com or visit the Trade Commissioner Service at https://www.tradecommissioner.gc.ca/. 

Access to the full report can be found at https://www.ccab.com/research/ccab-collaboration-series/indigenous_export/

Air Canada marked National Indigenous Peoples Day by proudly highlighting the achievements and contributions of its Indigenous employees. On June 21, an Air Canada jet was flown by an all-Indigenous crew of two pilots and nine flight attendants for the first time in the company’s 54-year history. Passengers aboard Flight AC185 from Toronto to Vancouver flew in Air Canada’s flagship Boeing 787 Dream liner also served by an all-Indigenous ground crew.

Marie France Roy is Air Canada’s Official Languages & Diversity Partnership Manager. She says the all-Indigenous crew idea came about in 2018 after Air Canada decided to proudly highlight the achievements and contributions of its Indigenous employees.

 “We decided this event would coincide with the June 21st National Indigenous Day celebrations, and really from there it was a matter of finding out and planning the Indigenous crew within our Air Canada team,” said Roy.

Crew members spoke with First Nation’s Drum to recall their experience aboard this historic flight. 

Air Canada In-flight Service Director Karen Chapman is a Coast Salish from the Cowichan Tribes on Vancouver Island who’s been flying with Air Canada for 19 years. Chapman was excited when she learned the news that Air Canada was considering the possibility of doing a flight with an all-Indigenous crew for National Indigenous Day.

“We have many proud Indigenous colleagues that want to represent our company and our communities, and what an amazing way to do it. The day they called me to say we were going to be able to do it was one of the best days of my career,” said Chapman. “I was extremely grateful for all the people at Air Canada that made it possible. It was a team effort.”

Chapman says her fellow Indigenous co-workers are all involved within their communities. 

“They participate in Pow Wows, the Longhouse, Sun Dance, Sweat Lodge, and more. They’re a very knowledgeable team that sheds light on many different aspects of the Indigenous cultures.”

Chapman says the crew received a lot of positive feedback from passengers on board their “special flight.” 

“I actually do get asked quite often what nationality I am, and passengers are always intrigued about Indigenous culture,” said Chapman. “I’ve also been told by Indigenous passengers that they are proud to see me in the position I’m in within my company.  It makes me even more proud.” Chapman continued, “Many passengers told us they were so happy we were doing this flight and that they could be a part of the occasion. 

“One passenger had tears in his eyes after First Officer Lewis Yesno made his ‘welcome announcement’ in his Ojibway language. We saw passengers shedding tears while our crew was welcomed into the boarding area by the Musqueam dancers once we arrived into YVR. It was very touching to hear the positive comments and see the emotion.”

Chapman says that making her arrival announcement over the PA to the passengers was an amazing feeling. “Ladies and Gentleman, welcome to Vancouver International Airport, located on the traditional lands of the Musqueam people.”

First Pilot Lewis Yesno is from Eabametoong First Nations in Northern Ontario. Lewis says he’s always wanted to fly the skies since he was a little boy. 

“This position has allowed me to travel the world, see other cultures, and experience things I could only dream of when I was a kid,” said Yesno. “Growing up on the reserve, I’d see the planes far up in the sky with the airplane exhaust trail, and I would tell my cousins and friends, ‘One day I am going to be up there flying those planes.’ I always knew that is what I wanted to do when I grew-up.”

His advice to young Indigenous people who want to become a pilot is to never give up on their aspirations to become whatever they want.

“With perseverance, one can achieve anything,” said Yesno, who first flew on a familiarization flight after attending a Geraldton Composite High School Career-Day Fair in September 1979 and then acquired his pilot’s license in March 1983.

He says that Air Canada is a very-diversified company that hires people from all backgrounds from all over the world and is very happy to be a part of the Air Canada Family.

“The all- Indigenous crewed flight from Toronto to Vancouver was awesome and a once-in-a-life- time experience,” said Yesno.  “I’m very proud to have been a part of it.” 

Members of the business community also expressed their thoughts on the all-Indigenous flight crew – the first by any major international airliner.

“Leading by example, Air Canada is first out of the gate to deploy an entirely Indigenous-operated flight and acknowledging the contributions of their Indigenous employees. This is an unprecedented move to advance Indigenous participation and business initiatives and will motivate other companies to support long-term sustainable opportunities that enhance our economy,” says JP Gladu, President and CEO of the Canadian Council for Aboriginal Business (CCAB).

Sharon Sunshine is a member of the Fishing Lake First Nation and a Saulteaux Cree in Saskatchewan. She’s worked in the airline industry for over 20 years and joined the Air Canada family almost three years ago.  Prior to Air Canada, she worked for smaller carriers and as a trustee for the Fishing Lake 1907 Surrender Trust

“I always wanted to work and fly with Air Canada because they are a global airline, and the opportunities are endless,” Sunshine says. “Working at Air Canada, we have the ability to challenge ourselves and grow in our professional development. For example, I take part in career fairs to promote Indigenous recruitment. 

“We go out to the communities and discuss our roles as flight attendants. We answer questions, and our goal is to inspire future flight attendants or pilots, or anyone who would like to work at Air Canada.  Another example is we have language courses available so that we may learn French and feel confident with basic phrases. There are so many different special assignments that we can apply for, and it is an exciting time to be a part of this great company.”

Sunshine says her thoughts on the Indigenous flight was one of enormous pride.

“To take part in something so momentous really is a highlight in my career. As flight attendants, we all shared the same narrative, which is being proud to represent the First Nations community and to be role models not only for our people but for corporate Canada.  Air Canada really allowed us to showcase that pride, and I am so grateful for that opportunity. The passenger feedback from that day was everyone kept congratulating us as crew members and Air Canada for allowing the event to take place.” 

Sunshine says that passengers asked her about her Fishing Lake First Nation, her language,family, and the origin of her name.

“There was genuine interest and excitement that was palpable,” Sunshine said. “For any Indigenous person who is considering a career in aviation, I would say ‘Go for it!’ You get to work with people from around the world and learn so much about their culture, and they learn so much about yours.”

Trades programs are coming to Indigenous people in unique ways, from unions and workers associations, to mobile schools and government outreach.

Alternative education to postsecondary institutions can be vital to gaining employment. According to Statistics Canada, Aboriginal people who completed postsecondary education had an employment rate of over 75%, but those with less than high school were at a rate of just over 40%.

The Indigenous population is the fastest growing in Canada – and that translates into more need of representation in the workforce. Over the next decade, of those aged 25-64, the Indigenous labour force will grow four times more than those who aren’t Indigenous.

Skilled trades and apprenticeships are becoming more tailored to Indigenous communities. Some outreach programs are literally coming to their doorsteps.

The Nicola Valley Institute of Technology has two campuses in Merritt and Vancouver, but it offers a third option for learning. Their Bridging to Trades program brings two 53’ mobile trailers around the province for a 12-week, pre-foundational training in one of four trades. 

The idea is to introduce skills in electrical work, plumbing/pipefitting, machining, and welding before a student decides if they want to continue on that path and go to a trade school. 

Dr. John Chenoweth, Associate Vice-President, says the program has been going strong for 10 years. They’ve visited around 45 to 50 communities around the province and complete 60 hours in each trade, plus 60 hours of employment readiness.

“The biggest things we want to achieve out of this, is a lot of these students probably haven’t graduated from high school,” he says. “They probably don’t have a thought in their mind that they have the ability to to those things.”

Chenoweth says the one of the neat things about the program is that some of their instructors also haven’t finished high school, but they have 30 to 40 years in successful careers as tradespeople.

He says even the students who don’t end up going into the trades still come out of the program with skills and a confidence they didn’t have before.

“One of the most positive things we see is students say, yeah, I’ve learned that I don’t want to be a tradesperson, but I didn’t realize I was such a good student at math. Maybe I want to go into business, or get my grade 12 and become a teacher,” he says. “It’s almost like an awakening program for students who feel like, I can do anything. That’s what that program does, ultimately.”

WOMEN ENTER THE WORKFORCE

In 2016, Canadore College in North Bay, Ontario announced its Aboriginal Women in the Trades program. Women will participate for 12 weeks and learn on of four trades: electrical, plumbing, construction, or carpentry. 

The program is unique: tuition is free. The Ontario Poverty Reduction Fund partnered with community members so women receive training, materials, and bus passes to remove any barriers to participating. 

The certificate program has a cultural foundation, using holistic approaches to learning and academic support. 

Judy Manitowabi, Manager of the First Peoples’ Centre at Canadore, said that increasing these women’s capacity for skilled labour lays a positive foundation for growth in Indigenous communities

“This is intended to be an introduction to help women find the path best suited to them,” she said in a school statement. “Upon completion, they will have basic skills to rely upon, but they will also be qualified to further their education in the skilled trades at the postsecondary or apprenticeship level.”

FEDERAL PROGRAMS LEND A HAND 

The Government of Canada has also invested in making trades programs more accessible to Indigenous people. Last month, the government announced funding for Indigenous apprenticeships in New Brunswick. More than one million dollars will be provided to MAP Strategic Workforce Services (MAPSWS) for its First in Trades Program. 

MAPSWS will open up 18 to 20 Indigenous apprenticeships positions within 14 unions of the New Brunswick Building Trades Unions. 

In Alberta, the Flexibility and Innovation in Apprenticeship Technical Training (FIATT) program funded a welding program in partnership with Red Deer College and the Montana First Nation. Starting in 2018, it will teach 50 Indigenous apprentices from rural communities to become certified welders. 

Rhonda Stangeland, Project Coordinator of FIATT at Red Deer College, said the partnership has allowed students to explore new career pathways.

“The project combined the use of a redesigned curriculum delivery model and learning technologies to prepare 50 Aboriginal learners for a career in welding,” she said in a press statement. “Now many of them have completed their technical training and are on their way to finding jobs in their chosen trades.”

The Indian Resource Council (IRC) hosted the Indigenous Energy Pavilion (IEP) at this year’s 51st Annual Global Petroleum Show (GPS) in Calgary, Alberta.  The Global Petroleum Show is North America’s Leading Energy Event with over 51,000 attendees from 115 Countries.  The IEP was the gathering place of over 200+ First Nations represented organizationally and 40+ First Nation companies during the 3 day event.

The IRC held a 3 day conference within the Indigenous Energy Pavilion that featured talks around Traditional Knowledge and History, Engagement with First Nations, Hiring of Indigenous talent, Information sessions on Bill C48 and Bill C69, Upcoming changes to the regulations in the Indian Oil and Gas Act, presentations from IEP participating companies, and more.

Indigenous companies participating in this year’s pavilion included BitCrude, Circle for Aboriginal Relations Society, D Jean Enterprises Inc., Top Notch Oilfield Contracting, Indian Oil and Gas Canada, Indian Resource Council, Ermineskin Resource Development Inc., Heart Lake Group of Companies, Total Containment Inc., Spirit Staffing Inc., Comec Energy Services/Genmec ACL, Cold Lake First Nations, and First Nations Major Projects Coalition.  

The IRC held meetings with numerous trade commissioners during the event who are keen on doing business with First Nations across the country, contact our office for more information.

The IRC was host to the Young GPS program, which provided youth with information on Indigenous communities participation in responsible energy development. IRC demonstrated to multiple groups how its members are making the energy industry more sustainable by applying real world solutions for real world challenges.

The IRC was nominated in the category of Indigenous excellence at the Global Petroleum Show Awards Gala alongside companies such as Innotech Alberta, Tamarack Valley Energy, and Project Reconciliation.  This year’s winner of the Indigenous excellence award was Steel River Group from Calgary, Alberta.

IRC President/CEO Stephen Buffalo presented on a panel at the GPS Strategic conference on First Nations-led Projects: A Path Forward, alongside fellow panelists IRC Board Member Delbert Wapass, Clayton Norris – VP Indigenous Services MNP, and Honourable Greg Rickford Minister of Energy – Northern Development and Mines and Minister of Indigenous Affairs Government of Ontario.  The panel was well received with many follow up discussion on First Nations projects.

For more coverage and highlights, follow #GPS2019 on twitter.  If you would like to be part of the energy for GPS2020, contact the Indian Resource Council / National Energy Business Centre of Excellence Office today at www.irccanada.ca

The sky hasn’t fallen and civil society hasn’t collapsed since Canada ended its national cannabis prohibition in October 2018. Contrary to the warnings by drug warriors, cannabis decriminalization and government regulation has resulted in economic opportunity and empowerment and is generating additional revenue needed to better finance important tribal programs.

Siksika Nation is the latest First Nation to stake a claim in the Green Rush. Via a 50/50 partnership with Kelowna BC-based Frozen Penguin Medical Industries, construction is set to begin this fall on a 25,000 sq. ft. cannabis cultivation and processing facility.  Involved with cannabis production since 2013, Frozen Penguin brings invaluable experience to the partnership. Reefer grown at the facility will exclusively help supply Health Canada and none will be diverted for recreational resale at a dispensary.

When complete, the building will be the first purpose-built cannabis production facility constructed on Indigenous land in Canada, according to Siksika Resource Development Ltd. CEO Tom Many Heads. The facility will be located in the same industrial park as SRDL headquarters. Siksika Construction, the construction arm of Siksika Resource Development Ltd. (SRDL), will be given the honour of helping build the infrastructure and erect the structure. No figures are available on the number of construction jobs that will be created, but 50 full-time positions for Siksika Nation members to staff the facilities’ day-to-day cultivation operation will be needed.

The plan is to produce five crop rotations per year that are expected to bring Siksika Nation coffers up to $15 million annually. The band intends to spend the money on social programs like housing and combating the opioid crisis – a catastrophe that is especially hard on Canadian Indigenous communities where many of our young people are succumbing to the deadly outcome of addiction.

The warehouse-type structure will contain a number of grow rooms. Frozen Penguin is working on a new system developed by RotoGro where plants are grown in a barrel-shaped planter and fertilized using a rotating motion. Barrels provide approximately 3.14 times additional grow area when compared to a bed, and this system can increase the yield by as much as twelve times the floor space of a traditional facility. For twelve months, Frozen Penguin has been testing the system at their Kelowna facility, and according to RotoGro CEO Adam Clode, they’re “getting exceptional yields.”

The RotoGro system will help Siksika Nation set the price they need to sell at to stay competitive and turn a profit. That would be good news for Siksika First Nation. According to Roland Bellerose, an advocate for Indigenous participation in the pot business, pricing for recreational sales are quite high and may not be sustainable. “What happens when a country like Columbia starts selling their product at 60 cents a gram?” asks Bellerose.

Siksika Nation’s decision to grow Mary Jane follows that of the Akwesasne Mohawk Nation, who in 2018 retrofitted an 84,000 sq. ft. former bottling plant located on their land and began producing medical and recreational weed. Akwesasne’s pot business is 100 percent band owned and has 75 employees. Business has been good and the band plans to expand to a 100,000 sq. ft. facility in the near future.

Opaskwayak Cree Nation (OCN), located next to The Pas in Manitoba, is another First Nation community that’s gotten into the weed business. They partnered with National Access Cannabis (NAC), in a 51/49 company ownership split. OCN and NAC focus on the recreational segment of the business and sell their products in NAC’s Meta Cannabis Supply Co. stores. They recently opened a dispensary in the OCN providing jobs for 12 Opaskwayak.

Siksika’s goal is for 100 percent ownership. Though branching out and joining the recreational-use dispensary sector in the future is a possibility, for now they want to learn, develop, and perfect the medicinal cannabis business one step at a time.

Frozen Penguin is in the process of a name change to comply with Health Canada’s strict rules against using animal names to promote products such as cannabis.

The Forward Summit was a good distraction from the chaos in world affairs. The February 26-28 event attracted a gathering of industry professionals, bankers, consultants, a dragon, and Indigenous people seeking better communication and participation in today’s economy.

First Nations Drum attended the first two days of the three-day conference held at the Telus Convention Centre in downtown Mohkínstsis – “elbow” in Blackfoot, and their name for Calgary, Alberta. The summit began on a bone-chillingly cold day with Elder Martin Heavy, Head of the Kainai Nation, opening with a Blessing and thank you to the Creator. Following were panel sessions, roundtable discussions, and workshops.

The panel sessions started with the First Nation Major Projects Coalition, which is a group of 52 members from across Canada who want to help each other in negotiating the acquisition or building of major infrastructure projects. These projects will bring employment and a degree of financial independence.

Shane Gottfriedson, a former chief of the Tk’emlup First Nation, near Kamloops B.C., gave a keynote speech on his band’s expanded portfolio. They invested in resource development that includes partnership in a gold mine.

He also talked about his own business dealings with friends in starting Powwow Coffee Co. and becoming franchisees with Tim Hortons. They hope to build their Powwow Coffee company to become one of the major suppliers in B.C. and beyond.

The roundtable discussions were held concurrently, so I chose to attend Attracting Capital and Sustainable Economic Participation. There were also discussions on hydrocarbons, mining partnerships in Canada, capacity building, and energy gridlock.

Preston Manning was in on the discussion, and he mentioned that the challenges Indigenous people face need support by positive and proactive political will from government to move infrastructure projects along. Removing political risk would make Indigenous participation possible.

Chief Jason Gauthier of the Missanabie Cree First Nation spoke about his band’s involvement in purchasing a railroad in north Ontario, additional agreements in revenue sharing, partnership in a large forestry company, and 70 joint ventures.

Mathew August from Animus Capital Partners explained his firm’s work with Indigenous communities that wish to acquire infrastructure projects and be involved from the planning phase to completion and operations.

Also in the Attracting Capital and Sustainable Economic Participation roundtable discussions were the China Railway First Survey and Design Initiative Group who shared their railway-building expertise. The company is doing a feasibility study on a rail link for the Ring of Fire development in north Ontario.  

Some summit participants were there looking for contacts and possible contracts. Clarence Assassin with Pride Hydrovac was busy networking when I asked him about the work situation in Northern B.C. He replied, “It’s slow like everywhere, but we have people and machinery out there.”

Jack Toth is founder and CEO of Impact Society, a group that works with Indigenous youth and communities. Toth was in attendance to better understand the commitment that industry groups have to holistic youth and community development. He wanted to learn how the Impact Society can partner with industry and communities in a positive manner so opportunities can be maximized.

Dan Pawlachuk from Deh Tai was at the summit getting info for the Fort Nelson First Nation, which has been expanding their business portfolio to include the Laird Hot Springs owned by the band.  

Troy Buchanan, from Modular Home Builder Modus out of Crossfield, Alberta, was there to promote their product to First Nations experiencing housing shortages. Those wanting a quote can contact his team via their website at Modus.ca.

A panel session on the second day covered building sustainable relationships. It brought together the Mikisew Cree Nation, McMurray Metis, and Chris Stannell of Teck Resources Ltd. who discussed their involvement in the proposed Frontier Project north of Fort McMurray.

The Mikisew Cree have lived in the area since time immemorial and were opposed to the project initially, but through consultations with all the groups involved, they’ve come to an agreement that will safeguard the environment during construction, operation, and for the duration of the project. This project will need pipelines built and add 260,000 bbl/d to the supply system for the life of the mine.

In the event of a spill, Delta Remediation explained their cleanup procedure that uses petroleum metabolizing organisms to break down spills and help nature heal itself through natural processes.

This method uses naturally occurring microbes, is non GMO, and safe for use in any environment where a pipeline is situated. Across Canada and the U.S., pipelines are having a lot of problems getting started, and those being built are having trouble getting completed.

Chief Clifford White of the Gitxaala Nation spoke of their relationship with LNG Canada and how he’s pushing for legacy projects to help future generations so that when natural resource projects are no longer viable, the wealth created will have been properly invested and provide a return. “We want to make sure that our people are looking at that 7th generation of our children’s children yet to be born,” said White.

Guy Lonechild, CEO of First Nations Power Authority, talked about Indigenous groups getting into solar and clean energy projects. He explained how his group partnered with the Saskatchewan government to deliver 40 megawatts of renewable energy to SaskPower.

Heather Black of Creative Spirit Solutions moderated a panel session of small business entrepreneurs who started up small businesses after getting opportunities either through trial and error, hard work, or luck.

Jordan Jolicoeur is CEO of Carvel Electric who managed to pull off a $300,000 contract through handwork, determination, and a few credit cards. Stephen Nairn is an expert on project risk analysis who saw a lack of risk capital for Indigenous entrepreneurs, so he and some friends started Raven Indigenous Capital Partners.

Teara Fraser always wanted to go to Africa, so when she had a chance to go, it was in a small plane. When the plane banked, she saw what she wanted to do for the rest of her life. Frasier become a pilot and founded Iskwew Air, and today she is selling her first air surveying company.

The Growth of the Cannabis and Hemp Industry round table discussion was hosted by Francine Whiteduck and Roland Bellerose of the Cannabis and Hemp Indigenous Consortium Canada. Bellerose spoke of the way many Indigenous people have always known cannabis as a medical plant and this is why we need cooperation from as many Nations as we can get to better lobby for growth and distribution of all types of cannabis products.

Hemp and cannabis are good carbon-capture tools that have the potential to transform our economy by helping to rebuild our manufacturing industry and selling finished products to the rest of the world.  

Reconciliation will take time, but events and conferences like Forward Summit are important for Indigenous and non-native people because they remind us we have too much in common to keep going the way it has been since our ancestors were forced to accept a foreign way of life.

Forward Summit organizers Miki Reeder of Connect Partnership Group and Muskwa Media’s Nicole Robertson wanted Indigenous people who are experts in their fields of work included in the summit. After attending, I found it evident they were successful in attracting those experts. A shout out also to event co-chairs Chief Charles Weaselhead of Kainai Nation and JP Gladu, CEO of Canadian Council for Aboriginal Business (CCAB).

Those interested in receiving updates and learning more about Forward Summit should visit ForwardSummit.ca,

Clarence Louie, Chief of the Osoyoos Indian Band will be inducted into the 2019 Canadian Business Hall of Fame on June 19, 2019. Mr. David Denison, Chancellor of the Order of the Business Hall of Fame says the 2019 Class of Companion Inductees is a very special group which recognizes and celebrates the accomplishments of Canada’s most distinguished business leaders.

“The Canadian Business Hall of Fame is honoured to recognize their enduring contributions to the business community and our country,” said Denison.  “We will have the great privilege of highlighting their excellence in business leadership, outstanding professional achievements and dedication to bettering Canada’s social fabric.”

Clarence Louie, the first Indigenous person inducted into the Business Hall of Fame was born in 1960 and raised on the Osoyoos Indian Band by his mother. Due to high unemployment, many adults on his First Nation community had to work as transient labourers on fruit orchards in nearby Washington State. Louie was forced to be self-sufficient during his childhood years. At age 19, he left BC and enrolled at the First Nations University in Regina. He then completed native studies at the University of Lethbridge. After receiving his degree, he returned to home to Osoyoos.

At 24 years of age, Louie was elected as chief of the Osoyoos Indian Band. Louie has won every election but one since 1985. The band has 540 members, and controls 32,000 acres of land. He started the Osoyoos Indian Band Development Corporation (OIBDC) in 1988. Through the corporation’s efforts, the previously impoverished band started or acquired nine businesses, including tourism, construction, and recreation companies. The band now employs 700 people including non-First Nations. A high-profile business started by the OIBDC during Louie’s tenure is Nk’Mip Cellars, the first aboriginal-owned winery in North America.

First Nations Drum had the chance to speak with Clarence Louie and discuss his induction into the Canadian Business Hall of Fame.

When did your interest in business start?

“I guess when I was first elected chief back in December of 1984 because you quickly realize in order to create self sustaining jobs on the reserve you have to be in business affairs, there aren’t enough jobs in the band office for every band member; and the biggest employer should not be the band office. The only way to create jobs is to get involved in economic development and business.”

One of your main goals was to hire band members, was this difficult, and how did you go about getting members trained and qualified for their positions?

“Well any band’s main goal is to employ band members, of course you can’t always do that, because you need experienced people and you need to hire qualified people for those jobs whether that be in finance or any position. I know many First Nations who hire white people or whoever because you need people to keep the ship running. This is why you need to set aside money for training, and the money that comes from Indian Affairs for Education is never enough, so you have to create your own revenue to cover and employment & training. Leasing revenue pays for everything around here at Osoyoos Indian Band. Not all band members want to work for their band, so you have to hire non-band members, and it’s no different here at Osoyoos. Every band has some capacity building to do, so we set aside money to send band members to go get their education and training, whether it’s in Canada or the U.S., so they have an opportunity to manage some of our businesses.”

You are the first Indigenous business person to be inducted into the Canadian business Hall of Fame, what are your thoughts?

“Well again I’m not the original entrepreneur here, as elected chief, I don’t own any of these companies here in Osoyoos. So I find it strange that I’m being singled out, because I didn’t put any of my money in these companies, they’re owned by the band, so it should be the band recognition because this was a team effort, not only one person. I played a role in Osoyoos accomplishments and success, but there’s council, and band members that have to agree in the business ventures and land leases, so it’s a recognition for the Osoyoos Indian Band.”

What are some of the achievements that stand out?

“Well all the jobs we’ve created. We now have more jobs than we do band members. Every First Nation can’t say they’re independent if they can’t create their own money, it’s a simple reality. If your money comes from Indian Affairs, then you’re a dependent First Nation, if the biggest employer on the First Nation is the band office, then that’s wrong. You can’t be independent if you don’t create your own revenue.”

You have been elected chief of the Osoyoos since you were 24 years old, how has the business landscape changed for you, since 1984?

“No, I ran for chief 17 times and  been elected 16 times since 1984. Well of course I’ve learned  a lot, I have a lot more business contacts, experience. We’ve done some stupid things, and we learn from those mistakes. When I was first elected, we only had 2 council members and now we have 5 council members and a Chief, plus our population has grown. We have more mouths to feed, more demands, therefore we have to make more money and create more jobs.”

It seems you started from scratch to your current business and investments (including a vineyard and winery, a four-star resort, and a 9-hole golf course) what were the main challenges you faced?

“Well it always boils down to money and that is the main obstacle.  We need money to seek out good advisors to create proposals and grant money. We also needed to change our mindset that we can’t always depend on Indian Affairs for money and we have to start creating our own economy and become more business minded and we need better finance people, number crunchers, better business minded individuals, and hire business advisors. We need to move forward and get on our economic horse.”

The welfare rate on First Nations in Canada is quite high, what is the rate, if any on Osoyoos Indian Band?

“In every community you have people on welfare, some have good reason, cause of their health, or maybe a disability, single mothers raising children and of course we have our group of ‘lazy ones,’ I think every community has their ‘lazy ones. 80 per cent of my people or more are employed compared to many First Nations that have 50 per cent of their people unemployed. We have a membership of 540, but like every band, not all our members live on our First Nation, we have members scattered throughout the U.S. and Canada, but the majority live on the reserve, and we’ve had members move back to Osoyoos because of the opportunity of jobs. But we have more jobs then we do have band members. Is everybody working, ‘no.’”

Wet’suwet’en hereditary leaders are saying they have authority over the territory and the elected band councils have authority over the band reserve, would you like to comment on this issue?

“We don’t have hereditary chiefs in the Okanagan First Nations, so we don’t have to deal with this issue here, but all people on our reserve still have a say on decisions that are important to Osoyoos. My understanding is the First Nation is owned collectively not individually.

What are your thoughts on current Liberal MLA, Jody Wilson-Raybould controversy?

“I have too many other issues to deal with on my reserve, that’s a national issue, we have a national chief, and of course you have your provincial AFN (Assembly of First Nations) chief, and Union of BC Chiefs, so we elect them them and they get paid to keep their focus and eyes and ears on national issues.”

From left to right: Claude Lamoureux O.C., FCIA, Chief Clarence Louie O.C., Annette Verschuren O.C., Stephen J. R. Smith. Photo credit: Tom Sandler (CNW Group/JA Canada)

Clarence Louie, Chief of the Osoyoos Indian Band will be inducted into the 2019 Canadian Business Hall of Fame, which recognizes and celebrates the accomplishments of Canada’s most distinguished business leaders. Also being inducted are: Claude Lamoureux, retired president & CEO, Ontario Teachers’ Plan, Stephen J.R. Smith, chairman & CEO of First National Financial, and Annette Verschuren, chair & CEO of NRStor Inc.

Mr. David Denison, Chancellor of the Order of the Business Hall of Fame says the 2019 Class of Companion Inductees is a very special group.

“The Canadian Business Hall of Fame is honoured to recognize their enduring contributions to the business community and our country,” said Denison.  “On June 19, 2019, we will have the great privilege of highlighting their excellence in business leadership, outstanding professional achievements and dedication to bettering Canada’s social fabric.”

Clarence Louie who’ll be the first Indigenous person inducted into the Business Hall of Fame was born in 1960 and raised on the Osoyoos Indian Band by his mother. Due to high unemployment, many adults on his First Nation community had to work as transient labourers on fruit orchards in nearby Washington State. Louie was forced to be self-sufficient during his childhood years. At age 19, he left BC and enrolled at the First Nations University in Regina. He then studied native studies at the University of Lethbridge. After receiving his degree, he returned to home to Osoyoos.

At 24 years of age, Louie was elected as chief of the Osoyoos Indian Band. Louie has won every election but one since 1985. The band has 460 members, and controls 32,000 acres of land. He started the Osoyoos Indian Band Development Corporation (OIBDC) in 1988.Through the corporation’s efforts, the previously impoverished band started or acquired nine businesses, including tourism, construction, and recreation companies. The band now employs 700 people including non-First Nations. A high-profile business started by the OIBDC during Louie’s tenure is Nk’Mip Cellars, the first aboriginal-owned winery in North America.

In 2003, Louie was chosen by the U.S. Department of State as one of six Canadian First Nations leaders to review economic development in American Indian communities. In 2004, he received the Order of British Columbia. Louie has also been involved in land claim settlements with the provincial government.

The Canadian Business Hall of Fame was established by JA Canada in 1979 to honour Canada’s preeminent business leaders for their professional and philanthropic achievements.

This year’s Class of Companions will formally be inducted into the Canadian Business Hall of Fame at the 2019 Gala Dinner and Induction Ceremony at the Metro Toronto Convention Centre on June 19, 2019. Proceeds from this gala help JA Canada meet the growing demand for financial literacy, work readiness, and entrepreneurship programs for Canadian students, which are essential to youth’s future success