RBC Convention Centre (North Building, Main Floor)
375 York Avenue,
Winnipeg, Manitoba R3C 3J3, Canada
October
28, 2025
-
October
29, 2025
09:00AM -
04:30PM CST
About The Event
The Southern Chiefs’ Organization Inc. (SCO), along with the Southern Chiefs Economic Development LP (SCED), are pleased to invite you to the upcoming event, “Binasi: Economic Reconciliation Forum” on October 28th and 29th, 2025. This event will take place on Treaty One Territory at the RBC Convention Centre in Winnipeg, Manitoba.
The landmark event will focus on advancing economic reconciliation through meaningful partnerships, innovative collaboration, and Indigenous-led economic development. Binasi will bring together Indigenous leaders, entrepreneurs, business executives, government representatives, and allies committed to shaping a more equitable and inclusive economy.
The forum is a unique opportunity to engage directly with Indigenous leaders & entrepreneurs, explore meaningful opportunities for procurement & investment, and gain valuable insight in Indigenous priorities, business models, and success stories. It will also provide space for dialogue around the shared responsibilities and actions needed to move reconciliation forward through economic inclusion.
We look forward to seeing you and engaging in meaningful dialogue at Binasi this October. “
Attendees
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Breakfast Buffet - Registration & Visit Business Booth
North Building, Main Floor
08:30AM -
08:45AM
Opening Ceremonies and Prayer - Dr. Jerry Fontaine
Main Room
About Speaker
Jerry Fontaine
08:45AM -
09:00AM
Spirit Horse Drum Group
Main Room
09:00AM -
09:45AM
Opening Remarks
Main Room
Description:
Grand Chief Jerry Daniels, Souther Chiefs' Organization
Grand Chief Kyra Wilson, Assembly of Manitoba Chiefs
Grand Chief Garrison Settee, MKO
The Honourable Minister Ron Kostyshyn, MInister of Agriculture
His Worship Mayor Scott Gillingham, City of Winnipeg
Larry Wright Jr., National Congress of American Indians
About Speaker
Grand Chief Jerry Daniels, Southern Chiefs' Organization
About Speaker
Grand Chief Kyra Wilson, Assembly of Manitoba Chiefs
In 2022, Kyra Wilson was elected Chief of Long Plain First Nation. As Chief she led with compassion, humility and a clear vision forward. She focused on building opportunities for youth and families, strengthening community infrastructure and improving access to health and wellness services. She worked side by side with Elders, fellow Chiefs and community members, always listening first and leading with care.
Now serving as Grand Chief of the Assembly of Manitoba Chiefs, Kyra brings that same leadership to the broader table. She continues to focus on what matters most: children, families and the future of First Nations people.
About Speaker
Grand Chief Garrison Sette, Manitoba Keewatinowi Okimakanak
Grand Chief Garrison Settee is from the Pimicikamak Cree Nation in Northern Manitoba. He is Ininiw and was born and raised in a Cree-speaking home. He was raised in a home with strong values and work ethics, where his parents instilled strong spiritual values that keep him grounded to this day.
He attended Frontier Collegiate and R.D. Parker Collegiate in Thompson and went on to obtain a Bachelor of Education degree from Brandon University.
Grand Chief Settee taught First Nation Studies and First Nation Law at the grade 12 level for many years. He introduced his students to the critical issues pertaining to Indigenous rights and treaties. Through his experiences as an educator, both students and Elders encouraged Mr. Settee to allow his name to stand for leadership at the community level.
Answering the call of his students and Elders, Garrison was first elected as Councillor and then nominated and elected as Chief of Pimicikamak. He served as Chief from 2008-2013.
During tenure on Chief and Council of the Pimicikamak Cree Nation, Mr. Settee was involved with a wide range of Councils and committees, including the Executive Council of the Assembly of Manitoba Chiefs and Manitoba Keewatinowi Okimakanak (MKO); the Assembly of First Nations Chiefs Committee on Education; school administrator; and a member of the Peace Keeper Patrol-Gang Violence Strategy.
A gifted orator, Grand Chief Settee is a strong advocate for the North. He was first elected as Grand Chief of MKO in August 2018. He was re-elected for a third term in August 2024. In his leadership position, he represents 26 Northern First Nations. He is a strong advocate for missing and murdered Indigenous women, girls, and Two Spirit people; children and families impacted by the child welfare system; economic development; and education for First Nations youth. Grand Chief considers it an honour to serve Northern First Nations.
In his spare time, the Grand Chief enjoys reading non-fiction history books and biographies. He enjoys playing music and is learning to speak Anishinaabemowin. Grand Chief Settee resides in Thompson, Manitoba.
Several notable highlights include: - Represented MKO at UN meetings in Geneva, Switzerland and exposed Canada’s treatment of Indigenous people. - Represented MKO in lobbying efforts for the implementation of Jordan’s Principle, and after four days Anita Neville, MP for the Liberal Party, brought the issue of Jordan’s Principle to Parliament, and this was the first time it was mentioned in the House. - As Chief, Garrison was principal proponent to introduce a resolution to demand an inquiry into Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls at the Assembly of First Nations Assembly. He apologized to the women that not enough was done by the chiefs to pursue the issue of MMIWG.
About Speaker
The Honourable Minister Ron Kostyshyn, Minister of Agricultur
About Speaker
His Worship Mayor Scott Gillingham, City of Winnipeg
Scott Gillingham believes great cities are built by people who roll up their sleeves, work together, and tackle big challenges head-on.
Raised on a farm near Carman, Manitoba, Scott learned early that success comes through effort and teamwork. From long mornings on the farm, to playing in the Manitoba Junior Hockey League, to climbing 60-foot poles as a lineman for Manitoba Hydro, he developed a strong respect for those who keep communities running.
That spirit of service led Scott to spend over 20 years as a pastor, supporting families and strengthening communities. This experience inspired him to run for public office, and he was elected City Councillor for the St. James ward in 2014 and re-elected in 2018.
As Chair of the Finance Committee, he introduced Winnipeg's first-ever multi-year balanced budget, helping the city manage a $220 million pandemic revenue shortfall while protecting essential services. He has built a reputation as a collaborative leader who works across sectors to invest in infrastructure, public safety, and economic growth.
Since being elected Mayor in 2022, Scott has focused on results: fast-tracking a new transit network, leading ambitious housing reforms, and ending the decades-long debate over reopening Portage & Main to pedestrians. He also serves as Vice-Chair of the Big City Mayors' Caucus, where he advocates nationally for housing, safety, and economic opportunity.
About Speaker
The Honourable Minister Ron Kostyshyn
09:45AM -
10:30AM
Collaborative Economic Pathways Towards Reconciliation
Main Room
About Speaker
Jim Ludlow, President at TNRED
After serving as True North Sports + Entertainment's President & CEO since its inception, Jim Ludlow transitioned to the role of President, True North Real Estate Development in 2014, advancing and developing a variety of commercial and real estate developments, expanding the footprint of True North and adding to Winnipeg's physical and business landscape.
Born and raised in Winnipeg, Ludlow attended the University of Manitoba, earning a B.A., and then attended Osgoode Hall Law School in Toronto, where he received his law degree. Prior to joining True North in 1999, Ludlow was a partner at a senior Canadian law-firm, and previous to that was General Counsel and Vice-President of Corporate Development to a leading Canadian venture-capital firm.
Ludlow is actively involved in the Winnipeg community, having served or currently serving as a member of the boards of the Royal Winnipeg Ballet, CentreVenture Development Corporation, Alpine Canada, the Winnipeg Art Gallery and the Walker Theatre Performing Arts Group Inc. He previously held the position of Honorary Colonel with 1 CFFTS at 17 Wing Winnipeg, and in 2011 was the recipient of the national award for Business Achievement at the Western Canada General Counsel Awards in Vancouver.
10:30AM -
10:45AM
Wellness Break
Main Room
10:45AM -
11:45AM
First Nations Youth & the roles they play in economic reconciliation
Main Room
About Speaker
Moderator: Kevin Chief
About Speaker
Bram Strain, President & CEO of Business Council of Manitoba
Bram Strain is the President and CEO of the Business Council of Manitoba. Bram is a Manitoban, raised in Elm Creek and is a graduate of Brandon University. Prior to joining the Business Council, Bram worked at all three levels of government in senior roles such as, City Manager in Lethbridge, Alberta, Deputy Minister in the Manitoba Government in Infrastructure and Education, Training, and Immigration, in the Federal system as Assistant Deputy Minister for Western Economic Diversification and Regional Director General for Citizenship and Immigration Canada.
Bram was appointed to the Premiers Business & Jobs Council, subcommittees U.S. Trade and Clean Energy & Economy and on the board of the Assiniboine Park Conservancy. He was also part of Ministers' Immigration Advisory Council and the 2023 World Police and Fire Games.
Bram is a strategic leader who utilizes a relationship-based leadership style that focuses on results and outcomes beneficial to stakeholders. Bram has worked extensively with the private sector in the development of economic and infrastructure projects leading to growth and community enhancement. On behalf of the Business Council, he is focused on economic growth for the province of Manitoba by creating the conditions for a competitive business environment for industry to thrive.
About Speaker
Honourable Jamie Moses, Minister of Business, Mining, Trade and Job Creation
About Speaker
Daman Morissette, VP of Social Impact at Manitobah Mukluks
At Manitobah, every step forward is guided by purpose—and for Daman Morissette, Vice President of Social Impact, that purpose is clear. A proud Anishinaabe member of Sagkeeng First Nation, Daman is deeply committed to uplifting Indigenous communities and creating meaningful opportunities.
From his early days playing competitive basketball to co-founding one of North America's largest Indigenous basketball tournaments, Daman has always been driven by community and leadership. At Manitobah, he brings that same drive to programs that empower Indigenous artisans, amplify Indigenous voices, and support reconciliation efforts.
Growing up in Winnipeg, Daman saw a gap in Indigenous basketball opportunities. 'There were no teams, no tournaments, and you didn't see Indigenous referees—or many coaches.'
Determined to change that, Daman and two friends co-founded the Battle for Turtle Island, now one of the biggest annual Indigenous basketball tournaments in North America. Held in Winnipeg, it brings together Indigenous youth and adult athletes from across the continent, creating a powerful space for representation, competition, and community pride.
Tréchelle Bunn is the first woman and youngest person elected Chief of Birdtail Sioux Dakota Nation, and one of the youngest serving Chiefs in Canada. She graduated with distinction from the University of Manitoba with a bachelor's degree in criminology and a minor in Indigenous Studies. She is now pursuing a law degree at Robson Hall, the Faculty of Law at the University of Manitoba.
A dedicated advocate for Indigenous rights and youth empowerment, Tréchelle has spoken on provincial, national, and international stages, including at the United Nations. She is the founder of the Reconciliation Run, Canada's first National Day for Truth and Reconciliation half marathon, and the creator of the first Indigenous student-athlete scholarship at the University of Manitoba.
Her leadership and advocacy have been recognized with numerous honours, including the Indspire First Nations Youth Award, the King Charles III Coronation Medal, the CBC Manitoba Future 40 Award, and the University of Manitoba Outstanding Young Alumni Award.
11:45AM -
12:00PM
INvesting in the Future: Partnerships to Support First Nation Youth and Aspiring Leaders
Main Room
About Speaker
Wade Miller, President & CEO of the Winnipeg Blue Bombers
12:00PM -
01:00PM
Networking Lunch Break
Main Room
About Speaker
Jerry Fontaine
12:45PM -
01:00PM
Leaading the Way in First Nations Cosmetics
Main Hall
About Speaker
Rachel Ferreira (Seenie), Roseau River Anishinabe First Nation Councillor, Founder of Ojibwe Cosmetics
01:00PM -
02:00PM
Jay Treaty, Tariff-Free Trade Corridor Across the Canada-United States Border
Chief Darcy Bear has dedicated himself to the betterment of his community since being elected to Whitecap Dakota First Nation's Council in 1991 at the age of 23. In 1993, Darcy was elected as Chief of Whitecap, and is currently serving his 27th year as Chief of WDFN. As Whitecap's leader, Chief Bear has always maintained a focus on community development, and has worked to bring greater fiscal accountability, transparency and good governance to the community. He has been widely recognized for his economic, business and community development achievements and has received numerous awards to recognize these accomplishments.
Today, Whitecap enjoys a reputation as one of Canada's most successful communities in investment attraction and job creation. Chief Bear's focus on 'progress through partnerships' has been pivotal to this status as he and Band Council have worked with the federal government, the provincial government, neighbouring rural municipalities and communities in the region.
03:15PM -
03:45PM
Building Futures: Indigenous Employment and Economic Empowerment in Wehwehneh Bahgahkinahgohn
York Ballroom
About Speaker
Chief E.J. Fontaine
After delivering cultural support services and facilitating work placements for a Winnipeg Construction Association Training Project, First Nations entrepreneurs E.J. Fontaine and Eva Wilson-Fontaine identified a void in the market. In 2006, they founded AMIK, Canada's Original Indigenous Job Board.
AMIK immediately filled a niche within the market, simplifying work placement between the country's fastest-growing labour force and employers. AMIK has since grown to become Canada's #1 Leader in Indigenous Workforce Engagement & Training Services. Through innovative strategies and customized solutions, AMIK continues to develop strong partnerships across the country, building a stronger Indigenous future — Today!
Awards & Recognition: • 2011 – U of M Asper School of Business, Aboriginal Business Leadership Award • 2012 – U of M Faculty of Agriculture & Food Sciences, Certificate of Merit • Board Member – Food Matters Manitoba • Board Member – Mayor's Indigenous Advisory Council (City of Winnipeg) • Certified Master Facilitator – Smart Work Ethics curriculum
About Speaker
John Einarsson, Southern Chiefs' Organization
03:45PM -
03:45PM
Closing Remarks
Main Room
About Speaker
Jerry Fontaine
02:45PM -
03:15PM
Future Aircrew Training, Program Overview & Oppotunities
Main Hall
About Speaker
Devi Shantilal, SkyAlyne
08:00AM -
09:00AM
Breakfast Buffet - Registration & Business Booths
York Ballroom
09:00AM -
09:30AM
Welcome Remarks
Main Room
About Speaker
Chief Willie Moore, Assembly of First Nations (AFN) Manitoba Regional
Willie Moore, former NCN Councillor, was elected as the new Assembly of First Nations (AFN) Regional Chief on July 24th, 2024.
The AFN is a national advocacy organization that advances the collective aspirations of First Nations individuals and communities across Canada on matters of national and international concern.
Mr. Moore's dedication, accomplishments, and service as an NCN Councillor from 2014 to 2022 have long been a source of inspiration and pride for his community. His election as AFN Regional Chief is a powerful testament to his vision, commitment, and the trust placed in him by the Manitoba Chiefs.
We are confident that his leadership will continue to positively impact and represent the interests of First Nations people at the regional level.
About Speaker
Honourable Mike Moroz - Minister of Innovation and New Technology
With years of experience in public administration, teaching, theatre and community service, Mike Moroz was proudly elected as the MLA for River Heights on Oct. 3rd, 2023. Having worked across Canada, Mike is pleased to have chosen River Heights as his home with his spouse Christine. Mike is the proud father of five children and four grandchildren who inspire him to continue to serve the community with investments in health care, education and innovation.
Mike was sworn in as Manitoba's first minister of innovation and new technology and looks forward to working with his colleagues to continue to grow the new economy.
About Speaker
Honourable Ian Bushie - Minister of Natural Resources and Indigenous Futures
09:30AM -
10:15AM
Strengthening Indigenous Economies Through Business and Partnerships
Main Room
About Speaker
David Chartrand, President, Manitoba Métis Federation
Red River Métis politician and activist. David Chartrand has served as the elected President of the Manitoba Métis Federation (MMF) since 1997, making him the longest-serving president in the federation's history. He is currently serving an eighth term following the 2022 election. From 1997 to 2021, he was also a member of the Board of Governors of the Métis National Council, holding various portfolios. Chartrand was first elected to the Manitoba Métis Federation Board of Directors, representing the Winnipeg Region, in 1988, and was re-elected four times.
He has held various volunteer positions, including Vice-President of the Indian and Métis Friendship Centre of Winnipeg, President of the Manitoba Association of Friendship Centres, President of the National Association of Friendship Centres, and a founding director and president of Beat the Street, an adult literacy program in Winnipeg.
He also served on the board of the Northern Justice Society (Simon Fraser University) and as a Director for the Manitoba Métis Federation for 10 years before becoming President in 1997. He served as a member of the Premier's Economic Advisor Committee for the Province of Manitoba.
10:15AM -
10:30AM
Wellness Break
Main Room
10:30AM -
11:15AM
Panel: Matriarchs in Manitoba's Business Sector
York Ballroom
Description:
Panel: Matriarchs in Manitoba's Business Sector Topic: Leading the Way: Women Shaping the Future Economic Growth
About Speaker
Moderator: Ashley Callingbull
About Speaker
Michelle Cameron - Indigenous Chamber of Commerce
Michelle Cameron, a proud member of Peguis First Nation, is the founder of Dreamcatcher Promotions, Canada’s largest Indigenous-owned promotional company. In addition, she is also the founder of Indigenous Nations Apparel Company (INAC), Manitoba’s first Indigenous-owned retail store in CF Polo Park. A dedicated mentor and advocate, she supports women entrepreneurs through the Assembly of First Nations and Red River College.
About Speaker
Reanna McKay - Number Ten Architectural Group
Reanna McKay is an architectural intern at Number Ten Architectural Group, based on Treaty 1 Territory. She is a Nîhithaw (Woodlands Cree) artist, writer, and educator from Barren Lands First Nation. Reanna holds a Master of Architecture and a Bachelor of Environmental Design from the University of Manitoba.
A passionate advocate for Indigenous inclusion in design education, Reanna co-founded the Indigenous Design and Planning Student Association and co-edited the publication 'Voices of the Land: Indigenous Design and Planning from the Prairies.' She is currently collaborating with Portage & Main Press on a three-part children's book series focused on Indigenous architecture.
Reanna's work centers on amplifying Indigenous voices through community engagement and land-based design. She serves on the Indigenous Task Force with the RAIC, is Chair of the Welcoming Winnipeg Committee, and is a member of Storefront Manitoba, a local design advocacy organization.
Her contributions have been widely recognized, including: • CBC Manitoba Future 40 Award • Named one of Women in Urbanism Canada's 14 Mobilizing Women • 2023 Indspire Award – Youth-First Nations Laureate
Reanna grounds her work in heart, ceremony, community, and wellness, and is committed to the resilience and resurgence of Indigenous peoples in all that she does.
About Speaker
Ilona Niemczyk - Economic Development Winnipeg, Director of Corporate Partnerships
Ilona Niemczyk, a strategic leader with over 25 years in economic development, directs corporate partnerships at Economic Development Winnipeg. She advances economic reconciliation by forging Indigenous business alliances and serves on boards like United Way Winnipeg. Her collaborative approach prioritizes trust and inclusive growth.
11:15AM -
12:00PM
Crowns Lands and Financing of First Nations Agriculture Projects
Main Room
About Speaker
Monica James, Farm Credit Canada Corp.
About Speaker
Geoff Reimer, SCO Director of Environment
12:00PM -
01:00PM
Lunch
Main Room
01:00PM -
01:45PM
Fireside Chat: Guiding Economic and Agricultural Growth: Manitoba Chief's Perspective
Main Room
About Speaker
Moderator: Dr. Jerry Fontaine
About Speaker
Chief Gordon Bluesky, Brokenhead Ojibway Nation
About Speaker
Chief Murray Clearsky - Waywayseecappo First Nation
01:45PM -
02:30PM
Economic Empowerment Through Gaming: How We Strengthen Our Native Nation and Keep Traditions Strong
Main Room
About Speaker
Mary Smith - COO, Four Winds Casino USA
02:30PM -
02:45PM
Wellness Break
York Ballroom
02:45PM -
03:15PM
Future Aircrew Training, Program Overview and Opportunities
Main Room
About Speaker
Devi Shantilal, Head of Indigenous Relations
Devi Shantilal is the Head of Indigenous Relations at SkyAlyne, where she leads efforts to advance Indigenous participation in the Future Aircrew Training (FAcT) Program—Canada's next-generation military aircrew training initiative. With over 15 years of experience, Devi has worked alongside Indigenous communities since 2012 across both public and private sectors, fostering inclusiveness via advocacy and engagement.
She chairs the Indigenous Participation Plan (IPP) Committee for the Industry Participation Association of Canada (IPAC), where she champions collaboration between industry, government, and Indigenous partners to strengthen Indigenous economic inclusion in the defence sector.
A strong advocate for economic reconciliation, Devi is committed to aligning procurement, workforce, and community engagement strategies with meaningful Indigenous participation. She holds an MBA from the Schulich School of Business and an Honours degree in Civil Engineering. Based in Toronto, she identifies as an ally to Indigenous Peoples and is passionate about intercultural learning, travel, and spending time in nature.
03:15PM -
04:00PM
Indigenous Peoples in International Trade, Truth and Reconciliation in Practice
Delta Hotels by Marriott Winnipeg Immanuel Volfango immanuel.volfango@deltahotels.com https://www.marriott.com/en-us/hotels/ywgdw-delta-hotels-winnipeg/overview/ Delta Hotels by Marriott Winnipeg
Indigenous Chamber of Commerce Susan Harlow procure@indigenouschambermb.ca 2042379359 https://www.indigenouschambermb.ca/ Indigenous Chamber of Commerce
Indigenous Engagement, The University of Winnipeg Grace Redhead g.redhead@uwinnipeg.ca 2042295926 https://www.uwinnipeg.ca/indigenous/ Indigenous Engagement, The University of Winnipeg
True North Sports Entertainment Real Estate Development Susan Olson solson@tnse.com https://www.tnse.com/ True North Sports Entertainment Real Estate Development
True North Sports Entertainment Real Estate Development