Presented by
The Time is Now
Conference Objectives:
· Assess the current economic landscape in Northern Manitoba
· Explore resource development opportunities in the region
· Identify strategies for sustainable growth and regional prosperity
· Examine the role of reconciliation in driving economic advancement
Conference Schedule
Monday, October 20
Tuesday, October 21
Northern Manitoba’s Moment: The Opportunities And Challenges Of Canada’s Big Project Economy
Building Economic Futures: Place-Based Skills Development In Indigenous And Northern Communities
Wednesday, October 22
Stronger Together: Challenges And Successes In The Arctic (Virtual)
Tales Of Indigenous Development Corporations: Building Value (Virtual)
Panel Discussion | Connecting Communities: Supply Chain Strategies For The North
Our Speakers
Emaan Ali
Senior Consultant – Mokwateh
Emaan is an experienced public engagement practitioner that advises on and executes effective, inclusive processes across project design, implementation, reporting and evaluation. With a strong background in and passion for diversity, equity and inclusion (DE&I), she brings DE&I lenses to all aspects of her engagement practice, including approaches for engaging with equity-deserving communities in relational, supportive ways. An area of focus and expertise for her is fostering brave spaces for meaningful engagement on complex, sensitive subject matter.
Prior to her time at Mokwateh, Emaan led and supported national, provincial and local engagement processes on various public policy issues at Burson (formerly Hill and Knowlton). She has also coordinated engagement design, implementation and communications for grassroots and public education projects at municipal government, not-for-profit and global civil society organizations. The projects that she is the proudest of use arts-based strategies to engage young Muslim women and entire Muslim communities on issues of gender-based violence.
Emaan holds a Master of Arts in Global Governance from the Balsillie School of International Affairs and a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science and Social Justice & Peace Studies from Western University. She completed the International Association for Public Participation’s DE&I in P2/Engagement training in June 2024 and the Foundations in Effective Public Participation training in October 2021.
Expertise:
- Public engagement
- Inclusive design
- Project management
- Strategic communications
- Research, analysis and reporting
- Diversity, equity and inclusion
- Client relationship management
P. Jerry Asp
Co-Founder, Chair & CEO of Global Indigenous Development Trust
CEO/Chair, Spirit Rock Resources Ltd.
President, Gray Wolf Solutions Ltd.
Jerry is one of Canada’s most prominent Indigenous leaders. He is committed to enhancing the quality of life for Indigenous people through the creation of new business opportunities and development of skills and capacity. Jerry was President and founding member of the Tahltan Nation Development Corporation (1985), the largest native-owned and operated heavy construction company in Western Canada building it to a 110 million dollar corporation with 8 divisions and 29 joint-venture partnerships in the mining industry. Today, the Tahltan Trust Fund holds $160 million for future generations from these opportunities. He is also a founding member of the National Indian Businessman’s Association (1981) (now the Canadian Council for Aboriginal Business) as well as the Canadian Aboriginal Minerals Association (CAMA) (1991-November 2013) where he served as Vice President.
Jerry is an experienced negotiator. His success includes negotiating the first Impact Benefit Agreement in British Columbia with the Golden Bear Mine; the first native–owned independent power producer contract with BC Hydro; and a new health facility to serve the Dease Lake area.
As a seasoned trainer and educator, Jerry was instrumental in creating the Aboriginal Toolkit for Mining which received the Departmental Merit Award from Natural Resources Canada (2006) and won the International Award as the best Aboriginal mine training document in the world, from UNESCO (2007).
Jerry is currently co-founder and Chair of the Global Indigenous Development Trust (2014), where he actively travels the world sharing his knowledge and experience with indigenous communities in Peru, Colombia, Chile, Dominican Republic, Ecuador, Guatemala, Argentina, Panama, Sweden, Norway, Australia, Canada and the US. He is also Chair and CEO of Spirit Rock Resources, a mineral exploration and acquisition company formed to show how to work with the land and Mother Earth with reverence, respect and reciprocity, creating a new way forward in the resource sector (2019). Jerry has been Advisor to Minister of International Trade on Responsible Business Conduct (2018) and is currently Senior Advisor to the Canada-Africa Chamber of Business (2022).
Jerry has received the Prospector and Developers Assoc of Canada Skookum Jim Award – Aboriginal Prospector of the Year (2011); Queen Elizabeth II Diamond Jubilee Medal (2013) for his contributions to the inclusion and training of Indigenous People in the mining industry; Frank Woodside Past Presidents Distinguished Service Award AME BC (2016); Indspire Award for achievement in Business & Commerce(2017); Named Mining Person of the Year (2019) for BC, Mining Association of British Columbia (2020); was inducted into the Canadian Mining Hall of Fame in (2020) and received the Tahltan Leadership Legacy Award (2022).
Noel Baldwin
Executive Director – Future Skills Centre (FSC)
Noel Baldwin has been the Executive Director of the Future Skills Centre (FSC) since June, 2024. He brings nearly two decades of experience in leading strategic initiatives and policy development in postsecondary education, adult learning and skills development.
Since joining FSC in 2019 as Director of Government and Public Affairs, Noel has provided leadership in navigating the complex skills ecosystem and working with diverse stakeholders to foster innovation in skills development that addresses the evolving needs of the workforce and promotes inclusive economic growth. FSC has successfully forged strong relationships with federal departments, provinces, territories, municipalities, and international organizations like the OECD. His efforts drove FSC’s early strategic initiatives, including targeted investments addressing critical gaps across regions and sectors.
Prior to joining FSC, Noel was the Coordinator of Postsecondary Education and Adult Learning at the Council of Ministers of Education, Canada (CMEC).
Suzanne C. Bracegirdle
Human Resources Manager, Arctic Gateway Group
Vice-Chair, AFOA Manitoba
Suzanne Bracegirdle is a seasoned executive, educator, and HR consultant whose career has been defined by a deep commitment to empowering First Nations and northern communities. With over two decades of leadership experience across Indigenous-owned enterprises, post-secondary institutions, and regional organizations, Suzanne brings a unique blend of strategic vision, cultural competency, and emotional intelligence to every role she undertakes.
Currently serving as Human Resources Manager at Arctic Gateway Group since February 2025, Suzanne leads with integrity and purpose, fostering inclusive workplace practices and supporting the development of meaningful career pathways for Northerners. She also serves as Vice-Chair of AFOA Manitoba, an organization she believes truly helps make dreams come true for First Nation communities by building capacity in finance, governance, and leadership.
Suzanne holds two degrees in Aboriginal Studies, earned with compassion and deep respect for the traditional way of life. Her father’s experience attending residential school remains a powerful driving force behind her lifelong advocacy for reconciliation, education, and community empowerment. She also holds an MBA from Athabasca University and numerous professional designations in HR, Indigenous governance, and safety compliance.
Married to Robert Bracegirdle and proud mother to April, Suzanne’s personal and professional life is grounded in values of honesty, humility, and service. Whether leading strategic initiatives, designing educational programs, or advocating for Indigenous inclusion, she remains a tireless champion for ethical leadership and transformative change.
Darrel Burnouf
CEO – Primrose Development Limited Partnership
Darrel Burnouf is the Chief Executive Officer for Primrose Development Limited Partnership. A Metis growing up in Northern Saskatchewan, Darrel has committed his professional career to working with indigenous people, indigenous communities and indigenous businesses to assist in developing capacity toward economic development and in 2008, immersed himself in Saskatchewan’s uranium mining industry and Aboriginal relations at a senior level. Through this experience, Darrel has gained deep insights into its operations and potential for creating lasting benefits for Indigenous stakeholders. Now after 20 years, Darrel has returned to working with indigenous communities: fostering wealth creation, employment opportunities, and skills training within Indigenous communities. His work continues to be grounded in respect, partnership, and a shared vision of long-term prosperity and self-determination.
Mayor Peter Clarkson
Inuvik, Northwest Territories
Dr. Ken Coates
Professor Emeritus, Johnson Shoyama Graduate School of Public Policy, University of Saskatchewan
Distinguished Fellow – Macdonald Laurier Institute
President, Coates Holroyd Consulting Inc.
Paul Gruner, MBA, CPA, ICD.D
CEO
Paul is a senior executive leader with a background in energy (renewable energy, oil and gas) and mining with over 10 years of Indigenous business experience serving in a leadership role of four Indigenous corporations across multiple jurisdictions:
• Tlicho Investment Corporation (Northwest Territories)
• Tahltan Nation Development Corporation (British Columbia) • Det’on Cho Management LP (Northwest Territories)
• Dakwakada Capital Investments (Yukon / Alaska)
He has proven experience in delivering business results in partnership with Indigenous stakeholders. He has a dynamic range of experience in strategic leadership, mergers and acquisitions, business development, strategic partnerships, financial management, project management, corporate governance, contract negotiations, capacity building and job creation for citizens, and environmental, social, and corporate governance.
Paul has experience in transformation strategy that strengthens organizations and builds them into sustainable, profitable entities that have the leadership and resiliency to operate for generations.
Along with his vast working experience Paul also has been involved with several boards including:
• Canadian Council for Aboriginal Business (CCAB) • Canadian Chamber of Commerce
• Future Skills Centre Advisory Board
• NWT / Nunavut Chamber of Mines
• Dadan Sunivut (Subsidiary of APTN)
• Da Daguay Development Corporation
During his time in the Indigenous business space the corporations that Paul has led have won multiple awards including:
• Canada’s Most Admired Corporate Culture (2)
• Economic Leadership of the Year – NWT (Chamber of Mines) • Indigenomics – 10 to Watch List (2)
• Indigenous Business of the Year – NWT, BC YK (AIIC)
• Top 500 Business leaders in BC – BIV BC500
ASSOCIATIONS/ CERTIFICATIONS:
Chartered Professional Accountant (CPA)
Directors Education Program (DEP) / Institute of Corporate Directors Designation (ICD.D)
Project Management Professional (PMP) Project Management Institute
Canadian Venture Capital & Private Equity Association
Environment Social Government (ESG) Designation (ESG.D) – in progress
EDUCATION
Bachelor of Science, Hons., University of Northern British Columbia
Master of Business Administration (MBA), Warwick University / University of Northern British Columbia
Dr. Robyne Hanley-Dafoe
Educational Behaviourist, Speaker & Scholar
An educational behaviorist (one of very few in the world) and a globally recognized speaker and scholar, Dr. Robyne Hanley-Dafoe is also your friendly neighborhood scientist who makes life make sense! With a treasure trove of awards and a worldwide following, she’s on a mission to empower leaders and teams everywhere with practical strategies for fostering resiliency and making stress your ally, not your enemy.
Dr. Robyne embodies her teachings by seamlessly blending real-world realities, rigorous research, and profound wisdom with her own personal journey. A mother of three teenagers, a high school dropout turned respected professor, author, entrepreneur and survivor of a life-altering accident, her life story exemplifies her unwavering dedication of spreading resilience. Dr. Robyne proves that it is not just a theory, but a transformative skill set.
Known for her engaging delivery, Dr. Robyne crafts experiences that integrate scientific research with inspirational narratives into actionable insights across diverse platforms. Her approachability and relatability shine through, inspiring individuals and organizations to face challenges with confidence.
Fueled by historical fiction, coffee, and an unwavering belief that better days are always ahead, Dr. Robyne is here to show us that resiliency isn’t just a concept— it’s a skill set that transforms your work and life.
Miya Insker
Senior Manager Indigenous Governance – Mokwateh
Miya has worked with Indigenous organizations, and federal and provincial governments as a community champion and has committed her professional career to improving individuals’ social, community, and economic environments.
She has worked with organizations across the country, providing support and leading organizational development, capacity building, promoting culture and wellness, and program development. She is best known for her ability to build and maintain positive relationships with community organizations, funders, community members, and federal and provincial governments.
Miya is an experienced facilitator and policy analyst, specializing in research and development with a focus on social and financial policy. Miya works from the mantra “building individuals, families, communities, and nations one person at a time,” and enjoys co-creating human, social, and economic development programming.
Our Panelists
Kristina Akpalo
Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada
Government of Canada
Kristina Akpalo joined Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada in 2009 and currently works as an Outreach officer in Winnipeg, MB. In her current position, she helps Canadian employers learn how Canada’s economic programs may be used to support their hiring needs and help drive economic growth.
Noel Baldwin
Executive Director – Future Skills Centre (FSC)
Noel Baldwin has been the Executive Director of the Future Skills Centre (FSC) since June, 2024. He brings nearly two decades of experience in leading strategic initiatives and policy development in postsecondary education, adult learning and skills development.
Since joining FSC in 2019 as Director of Government and Public Affairs, Noel has provided leadership in navigating the complex skills ecosystem and working with diverse stakeholders to foster innovation in skills development that addresses the evolving needs of the workforce and promotes inclusive economic growth. FSC has successfully forged strong relationships with federal departments, provinces, territories, municipalities, and international organizations like the OECD. His efforts drove FSC’s early strategic initiatives, including targeted investments addressing critical gaps across regions and sectors.
Prior to joining FSC, Noel was the Coordinator of Postsecondary Education and Adult Learning at the Council of Ministers of Education, Canada (CMEC).
Tim Brewer
CentreCan Supply Chain Solutions Inc.
Tim Brewer is the Co-Owner and Co-Founder at CentreCan Supply Chain Solutions Inc., where he specializes in providing customized 4PL supply chain management, warehousing optimization, and interim leadership services. With over 20 years of senior experience in logistics, transportation, and supply chain operations, Tim brings a proven track record of delivering measurable results in complex, fast-moving environments.
Throughout his career, Tim has successfully led multimillion-dollar infrastructure and logistics projects, including large-scale warehouse builds, electronic logging device (ELD) implementations, and national distribution frameworks. During the COVID-19 pandemic, he played a pivotal role in designing and executing logistics frameworks that ensured the safe and efficient transport of over three million critical medical specimens across Western Canada. Tim also acted as the Transportation Consultant for History Channels “Ice Road Truckers” during its 8th season.
A Certified Logistics Professional (CCLP), Tim is recognized for his ability to combine strategic vision with operational excellence. He has extensive experience working with private companies, government organizations, and not-for-profits, aligning diverse stakeholders, and navigating regulatory frameworks to achieve shared goals.
Tim is committed to building resilient, future-ready supply chains that are efficient, sustainable, and scalable, while also mentoring the next generation of supply chain leaders.
Hon Renée Cable
Minister Advanced Education and Training, Province of Manitoba
Renée Cable was elected as the MLA for Southdale in 2023. She is a proud Métis mom who is passionate about building stronger, healthier communities.
Prior to becoming an MLA, Cable’s background was in management, HR, advocacy and public policy including working in various staff roles in the Manitoba legislature. She has also served on several child-care, community centre and non-profit boards. Cable holds a bachelor’s degree in political science and diplomas in human resource management and management, all from the University of Winnipeg.
Cable grew up in Brandon and now lives in Windsor Park in the Southdale constituency with her family.
Jaclyn Crone
HR Superintendent, Workforce Management
HudBay Minerals Inc, Manitoba Business Unit
Jaclyn Crone is a human resources and organizational development leader with over 15 years of experience driving workforce strategies and building people-centered solutions at Hudbay Minerals Inc. in Flin Flon and Snow Lake, Manitoba. She works closely with stakeholders to develop pathways that connect education, industry, and community—creating meaningful employment opportunities and strengthening northern workforces.
Jaclyn holds a Master in Human Resource Management and draws on her experience to champion equity, capacity building, and long-term workforce sustainability in remote regions. Her work is guided by the belief that the people of the North are the foundation of industry, and that by hiring and training locally, we keep growth rooted in the communities that sustain it.
Tara Elder-Young
Calm Air International
Tara Elder-Young is the Vice President of Business Development and Marketing at Calm Air International, where she leads strategic initiatives that foster regional growth and build meaningful partnerships across Northern Manitoba. With over 17 years experience in tourism in Northern Manitoba, Tara brings deep insight, a collaborative spirit, and a strong commitment to community-driven development. She is a dedicated business leader with a profound passion for Northern Manitoba—its people, landscapes, and rich cultural heritage. Throughout her career, Tara has championed sustainable, inclusive initiatives that celebrate and strengthen the North’s unique identity. Her approach blends strategic thinking with heartfelt commitment, and she continues to advocate for opportunities that create lasting impact through collaboration, innovation, and shared vision.
Victor Leitao
CentreCan Supply Chain Solutions Inc.
Victor is a seasoned supply chain leader with over 15 years of experience in supply chain management and international trade. Throughout his career, he has held strategic roles that span global operations, consistently driving cost reductions and operational improvements across diverse sectors.
As Co-Founder and Co-Owner of CentreCan Supply Chain Solutions, Victor has led transformative initiatives, including the full outsourcing of a Distribution Centre and the execution of international strategic sourcing projects across Europe, the USA, and China. His expertise also extends to implementing advanced technologies that optimize inventory, logistics, and transportation systems.
Victor holds a bachelor’s degree in International Relations, a Diploma in Business Administration, and two professional designations—SCMP (Supply Chain Management Professional) and CITP (Certified International Trade Professional). Known for his analytical mindset and commitment to continuous improvement, he approaches challenges as opportunities to innovate.
Passionate about mentorship and knowledge-sharing, Victor is dedicated to empowering professionals in the field and fostering a culture of growth and excellence
Sid Varma
NCN Thompson Bus Lines
Sid Varma is the Chief Operating Officer at NCN Thompson Bus, where he oversees operations, strategic planning, and organizational performance for one of the region’s key transportation providers. With extensive experience spanning banking, telecommunications, mining, and transportation management, Siddharth brings a unique cross-industry perspective to driving operational excellence and organizational growth.
Throughout his career, he has successfully managed complex projects involving vendor management, route optimization, and performance analytics, while cultivating strong relationships with stakeholders and partners. Known for his data-driven approach and meticulous planning, Sid has implemented performance dashboards and process improvements that enhance operational transparency, productivity, and long-term growth. His leadership is guided by a commitment to excellence, sustainable outcomes, and building high-performing teams that consistently exceed organizational goals.
Our Moderators
Chuck Davidson
President & CEO, Manitoba Chambers of Commerce
Chuck Davidson is the President & CEO of the Manitoba Chambers of Commerce, representing 64 local chambers and nearly 10,000 organizations throughout the province. Under his leadership since 2013, the Manitoba Chambers of Commerce has seen a renewed focus on policy and advocacy as the Voice of Business in Manitoba and is continually recognized as an accredited Chamber of Commerce with distinction. A dedicated community booster and champion of economic development, Chuck is also Chair or Co-Chair of the Rural Manitoba Economic Development Corporation, the Canadian Chamber of Commerce Accreditation Council, the Manitoba Mineral Development Fund and Travel Manitoba’s Provincial Tourism strategy, as well as a Board member of the Community Economic Development Fund.
Doug Lauvstad
President & Vice Chancellor, University College of the North
Doug is currently President and Vice Chancellor of University College of the North, a position he has held since August, 2017. This unique institution provides educational and training opportunities on campuses and centres throughout northern Manitoba. Prior to joining UCN, Doug was the Executive Director, of the Northern Manitoba Sector Council, an association of northern Manitoba largest industry sectors (mining, forestry, energy) The focus of Doug’s career is on building and sustaining a skilled, prosperous northern Manitoba.
Book Your Stay!
Andersen Inn & Suites
1717 Gordon Ave. The Pas, MB R9A 1K3
Phone: 1-204-623-1888
Kikiwak Inn
P.O. BOX 10040 Opaskwayak, MB ROB 2J0
Phone: 1-204-623-1800
For information on registration, please contact Kelly Watters: ucnlinkages@outlook.com
CONTACT US
Kelly Watters
Kelly Forgala Events
ucnlinkages@outlook.com
204 391 4419