Binasi: Economic Reconciliation Forum

Tréchelle Bunn is the first woman and youngest person ever elected Chief of Birdtall Sioux Dakota Nation, and one of the youngest serving Chiefs 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 Reconcillation Run, Canada’s first National Day for Truth and Reconcililation 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 Charies Ill Coronation Medal, the CBC Manitoba Future 40 Award, and the University of Manitoba Outstanding Young Alumni Award. 

Tasked with leading the growth and development of the Indigenous tourism industry in Manitoba and in collaboration with Travel Manitoba and Indigenous Tourism Association of Canada, Holly Courchene will lead efforts for implementation of the Manitoba Indigenous Tourism Strategy, which focuses on the development of sustainable market-ready and export-ready Indigenous tourism products, as well as increasing the demand for Manitoba’s Indigenous tourism experiences. Holly was born and raised in Peguis First Nation where she owned and operated multiple successful businesses. She understands the barriers and complexities of owning a business both on and off the reserve and brings that first-hand knowledge to tourism operators in Manitoba. 

Through her previous work as the Manitoba Regional Coordinator at ITAC from 2019 to 2022, Holly guided many Indigenous entrepreneurs and community-owned tourism enterprises to strengthen their offerings into market and export-ready products. Holly’s connections and leadership within the region are proven and she is a true advocate for Indigenous tourism in Manitoba. 

Kelsey L Debets, Regional Director, Western Region Procurement Assistance Canada, Public Services and Procurement Canada Kelsey began her career in the Federal Public Service in 1998 with DND, moving to PSPC in 2000. Kelsey was seconded in 2006 to the Manitoba Federal Council and National Manager’s Community to lead several interdepartmental, intergovernmental, and national Public Service Initiatives. Kelsey returned to PSPC in 2011 to manage various teams in real property. In 2019, Kelsey moved on to a Client Service Director role, and in 2021 the Regional Director, Procurement Assistance Canada. Kelsey is the Executive Champion of WR Indigenous Engagement. Kelsey and her family reside on a golf course in Sandy Hook, MB near Lake Winnipeg. 

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, E.J. and Eva 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! 

• 2011 U of M Asper School of Business, Aboriginal Business Leadership Award 

• 2012 U of M Faculty of Agriculture & Food Sciences, Certificate of Merit – Recognition of contributions to Manitoba’s Agricultural community 

• Board Member of Food Matters Manitoba 

• Board Member of the Mayor’s Indigenous Advisory Council for the City of Winnipeg. 
• Certified Master Facilitator – Smart Work Ethics curriculum 

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, he learned early that results don’t come without effort – and that success is built by teamwork. Whether it was early mornings on the farm, grinding through four seasons in the Manitoba Junior Hockey League, or climbing 60-foot poles as a young lineman with Manitoba Hydro, Scott developed a deep respect for those who put in the work to keep communities running.

That same commitment to service led him to spend more than 20 years as a pastor, working with people to strengthen communities and tackle tough challenges. Over time, he saw how city policies directly impacted the lives of families, businesses, and neighborhoods – and he knew he wanted to do more. That’s what led him to run successfully for the St. James ward on City Council in 2014,and again in 2018.

During his time at City Hall, Scott has built a reputation as a collaborative leader with a long-term vision for Winnipeg. As Chair of the Finance Committee, he led the development of the city’s first-ever multi-year balanced budget – a critical move that helped Winnipeg navigate a $220 million revenue shortfall during the pandemic while protecting essential services. He has worked across governments and industries to invest in infrastructure, strengthen public safety, and grow Winnipeg’s economy.

Since being elected as Mayor in 2022, Scott has focused on delivering real results: fast-tracking a whole new transit network, driving the most ambitious housing reforms the city has seen in decades to get more homes built, and finally ending the 45-year debate about re-opening Portage & Main to pedestrians. These changes reflect his belief that leadership is about collaboration and action.

He’s also taken Winnipeg’s voice to the national stage as Vice-Chair of the Big City Mayors’ Caucus, pushing for progress on housing, public safety, and economic growth.

As FCC Senior Director of Indigenous Financing, Monica James leads a national team dedicated exclusively to empowering Indigenous participation in food and agriculture, assisting communities in reclaiming their inherent right to food security. 

Monica is a member of the Peter Ballantyne Cree Nation and grew up in northern Manitoba. With over 20 years of experience creating space for Indigenous entrepreneurs at the economic table within corporate Canada, she’s passionate about bridging the gap between Indigenous and Western worldviews. 

Before FCC, she was instrumental in creating a strategy to support Indigenous entrepreneurs at the Business Development Bank of Canada and guided the organization’s reconciliation journey with Call to Action #92. 

Monica works and resides on Treaty 1 Territory and the Homeland of the Red River Metis and acknowledges that she’s a guest on these lands. 

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 received a Master of Architecture and a Bachelor of Environmental Design from the University of Manitoba (UofM). 

Reanna advocates for Indigenous inclusion and representation in design education and is committed to empowering Indigenous communities and youth. While at the UofM, she 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.” Additionally, Reanna is working with Portage & Main Press on a three-part children’s book series on Indigenous Architecture. 

Her work continues to amplify Indigenous voices, community engagement, and land-based pedagogies in architecture locally and nationally. She is a member of the Indigenous Task Force with the RAIC, Chair of the Welcoming Winnipeg Committee with the City of Winnipeg, and a member of the local design advocacy organization Storefront Manitoba. Through this advocacy work, Reanna was recognized by CBC Manitoba with a Future 40 Award, by Women in Urbanism Canada as one of the 14 Mobilizing Women Impacting Urbanism in Canada and named the 2023 Youth-First Nations Laureate with the Indspire Awards, which is considered the highest honor Indigenous people bestow upon its own people. 

Reanna grounds herself in heart work, ceremony, community, and wellness, and she continuously works towards the resiliency and resurgence of Indigenous peoples in all that she does. 

Former NCN Councillor Willie Moore who was elected as the new Assembly of First Nations (AFN) Regional Chief On July 24th, 2024. 

AFN is a national advocacy organization that works to advance the collective aspirations of First Nations individuals and communities across Canada on matters of national or international nature and concern. 

Mr. Moore’s dedication, accomplishments, and service as a former NCN Councillor from 2014-2022 have always been a source of inspiration and pride for the community. We are confident that his leadership will continue to positively impact and represent the interests of our people at the regional level. 

Willie Moore’s election as AFN Regional Chief is a testament to his vision, commitment, and the trust placed in him by the Manitoba Chiefs. 

At Manitobah, every step forward is guided by purpose–and for Daman Morissette, our Vice President of Social Impact, that purpose is clear. A proud Anishinaabe member of Sagkeeng First Nation, Daman’s passion lies in uplifting Indigenous communities and creating meaningful opportunities. 
 
From his early days playing competitive basketball to co-founding one of North America’s biggest Indigenous basketball tournaments, Daman has always been driven by community and leadership. At Manitobah, he channels that same energy into programs that empower Indigenous artisans, amplify voices, and support reconciliation. 

“My name is Daman Morissette, I am Anishinaabe, a member of Sagkeeng First Nation, and the Vice President of Social Impact at Manitobah. 
 
I was born in Winnipeg, Manitoba, and spent my early years in a small town being raised by my grandparents. From a young age, I grew up playing basketball competitively which equipped me with various transferable life skills and provided many lessons and opportunities. 
 
My professional motivation has always been finding an organization that aligns with my values. At Manitobah, I can continue to support my community through my current role and uniquely place purpose before profit.” 

“Growing up in Winnipeg, there wasn’t a big Indigenous basketball community. There were no teams, no tournaments, and you didn’t see Indigenous referees (still don’t!) or many coaches.” 
 
Seeing a need for change, Daman and two friends took action. 
 
“We started one of the biggest annual Indigenous basketball tournaments in North America – the Battle for Turtle Island, hosted in Winnipeg. It brings together Indigenous youth and adult basketball players from across the continent, creating space for representation and competition.” 

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. 

Rachel Seenie is a passionate and multifaceted professional, recognized as an actor, entrepreneur, hairstylist, and a dedicated political Councillor for the Roseau River Anishinabe First Nation. 

With a deep commitment to her community and culture, Rachel is actively involved in initiatives that promote economic development and job creation, aiming to enhance the prosperity of her people.

Born in Winnipeg, Manitoba and originally from the Roseau River Anishinabe First Nation, Rachel’s roots are deeply entwined with her heritage. Her passion for acting blossomed in her youth, where she engaged in local films, showcasing her talent and love for acting. Through her acting career, Rachel has not only entertained but has also worked to raise awareness about Indigenous issues and cultural narratives, making her a prominent voice within the artistic community.

In addition to her acting career, Rachel is the visionary founder of Ojibwe Cosmetics, a beauty brand that celebrates Indigenous culture and heritage. The brand emphasizes cosmetics, apparel, mocassins and jewelry, offering products that resonate with the values of sustainability and authenticity. Rachel’s entrepreneurial spirit extends beyond cosmetics; she also is a hairstylist. By providing excellent services and promoting Indigenous beauty, she empowers individuals to embrace their unique identities.

As a political Councillor for the Roseau River Anishinabe First Nation, Rachel is committed to enhancing the economic landscape of her community. She is a driving force behind initiatives focused on job creation, with plans to establish a casino and a pharmaceutical business that aims to generate significant revenue for tribal members. 

Rachel envisions these projects as essential avenues for financial sustainability, providing employment opportunities and fostering economic independence for the First Nation.

Her dedication to community development is complemented by her collaborative approach, as she actively seeks partnerships and resources to ensure the success of her initiatives. 

Rachel is not only focused on immediate economic benefits but also aims to create long-term, sustainable growth that honors the traditions and wisdom of her ancestors.

Rachel Seenie embodies resilience, creativity, and leadership in every aspect of her life. As she continues to navigate her diverse roles, she remains steadfast in her commitment to uplifting her community and celebrating Indigenous culture. 

Through her work in the arts, entrepreneurship, and politics, Rachel is making a lasting impact, inspiring future generations to embrace their identity while fostering economic growth and self-sufficiency for the Roseau River Anishinabe First Nation.

Devi Shantilal ( /DAY-vee SHAHN-tee-lahl/) 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.

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. 

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.