This monthly Open Forum will be an opportunity for Economic Development Officers and others working in Indigenous economic development to discuss current projects, current events, and successes/ challenges.
The Open Forum will be framed around questions developed ahead of time to be discussed in breakout rooms. This will be a great opportunity to network with fellow EDO’s and those interested in Indigenous economic development from across Canada in a virtual way.
Agenda/Schedule:
- Introductions: MC – Shawna Morning-Bull (5 minutes)
- TAED/PAED Presentation: Geraldine Potts, Certification Coordinator, Western Region (10 minutes)
- Guest Speaker: Michelle Francis-Denny (40 minutes)
- Q&A and Closing Remarks (5 minutes)
Michelle Francis-Denny is a proud member of Pictou Landing First Nation, a small Mi’kmaw community in Nova Scotia. She considers herself a lifelong learner with a passion for Indigenous rights and environmental justice. She most recently completed her MBA in Indigenous Business Leadership with Simon Fraser University, in British Columbia and has renewed her technician level certification with CANDO. Michelle worked closely with the Province of Nova Scotia, leaders and community members of PLFN for 5 years in her as former role as the Community Liaison Manager for the Boat Harbour Remediation Project. Michelle is passionate about supporting Indigenous communities through inclusive and responsible business relationships and is currently working in the capacity of Indigenous relations in Atlantic Canada for Bird Construction.