West Coast Business Forum West Coast Business Forum & Award Dinner

Please note all times are Pacific Time

Business Forum
Award Dinner

Business Forum

9:30 AM

Registration & Coffee Connection Networking

10:30 AM

Welcome Blessing: Elder Larry Grant

Opening Entertainment: Coastal Wolf Pack

Host Welcome: Laurie Sterritt, Pathways Executive Search

CCAB President & CEO: Tabatha Bull

Welcome: Forum Lead Sponsor Scotiabank: Dana Martin

11:00 AM

MAINSTAGE: Uniting for a Sustainable Future: Strengthening Indigenous Communities through Strategic Partnerships

This panel brings together leaders from diverse corporate sectors and Indigenous communities to explore the profound impact of partnerships. By fostering strong relationships, we can enhance infrastructure, drive economic growth, and bolster the resilience of Indigenous communities.

Moderator: Mindy Henyu

Panelist/Speakers:

Justin Herman
Michelle Laviolette
Trent Zacharias

12:00 PM

Lunch

1:30 PM

BREAKOUT SESSIONS

Supply Change: Showcasing the Diversity of Indigenous Suppliers
Indigenous businesses are in every sector and industry in Canada’s supply chain. Learn from three businesses, as they share their challenges and successes navigating the procurement landscape in Canada.

Moderator: Philip Ducharme

Panelists/Speakers:

Anthony Wingham
Anita Pawluk
Rory Richards

Empowering Indigenous Businesses:Marketing & PR Strategies for Growth
Achieve sustainable growth with a well-crafted marketing and public relations (PR) strategy. Building meaningful relationships and focusing on community impact, can help Indigenous businesses thrive and create positive change in both the local community and the wider market.

Moderator: Chris Overton

Panelists/Speaker:

Deanna Wampler
Keenan Beavis
Shani Gwin

Recruiting and Retaining Indigenous Talent
Create diverse, inclusive, and culture-focused work environments. Learn how PAR-certified businesses have not only increased Indigenous participation in their workforces but have also been intentional and successful in keeping that talent.

Moderator: Marcel Pelletier

Panelist/Speaker:

Denise Gairdner
Laura Bain
Darrel Burnouf

Investing Indigenous- Money’s Role in Reconcili-action and Responsible Growth
Attracting investment and accessing capital as an Indigenous business owner and/or leader is paramount in achieving sustainability and profitability. Learn how to find and leverage capital to help keep your business on track over the long-term, while respecting ESG principles for growth.

Moderator: Paul Emile McNab

Panelist/Speaker:

Paul Lacerte
Dana Martin
Michelle Laviolette
Shannon Pestun

2:30 PM

Networking Break with Coffee & Dessert

3:15 PM

Key Note Speaker: Minister Rechie Valdez, Federal Minister of Small Business

3:30 PM

MAINSTAGE: Fireside chat with Chief Dr. Joseph and family members on Generational Reconciliation
Join Chief Joseph and family as they delve into the meaningful yet sometimes challenging journey forward in reconciliation. Gain valuable insights into the art of imparting and educating about our heritage, who we are and the impact we can all have on future generations and their ability to achieve prosperity.

Moderator: Rodman Joseph

Panelist/Speaker:

Chief Dr. Robert Joseph, OBC, OC
Karen Joseph
Shelley Joseph