Episode 10: The Power of Policy: Building Structural Change with Sarah Jacknife

Episode Overview In this episode of the Forward Together podcast, host Rod Miller engages with Sarah Jacknife, a Métis and Cree policy expert, educator and entrepreneur. They discuss Sarah's journey from her roots in the Elizabeth Métis settlement to founding Jacknife Consulting, which focuses on Indigenous policy and inclusion. The conversation explores the importance of education, the role of policy in structural change, and the need for co-creation in governance. Sarah shares insights on misconceptions surrounding Indigenous inclusion, the significance of celebrating Indigenous excellence and her vision for true reconciliation in Canada. Key Takeaways Sarah's upbringing in a community of entrepreneurs shaped her desire to work for herself. Education is crucial for understanding the historical context of Indigenous issues. Policy can hold organizations accountable and drive structural change. Co-creation in governance ensures equal representation and accountability. Indigenous knowledge offers valuable insights for addressing contemporary issues. Small steps in Indigenous inclusion can lead to significant structural changes. Misconceptions about Indigenous inclusion often stem from nervousness or overconfidence. Celebrating Indigenous excellence can shift the narrative from trauma to empowerment. Global perspectives on Indigenous relations highlight the need for community-specific solutions. True reconciliation involves integrating Indigenous perspectives into everyday life. Guest Bio:  Sarah Jacknife, MPP, is a nationally recognized Métis and Cree policy expert, educator, and advocate for Indigenous inclusion and reconciliation. A proud member of the Elizabeth Métis Settlement with roots in Saddle Lake Cree First Nation (Treaty 6) and mixed European ancestry, Sarah is the Founder and Principal of Jacknife Consulting—an Indigenous woman-owned firm specializing in Indigenous policy, research, curriculum development, and organizational learning. Sarah's work is grounded in advancing Indigenous voices, perspectives, and prosperity within Canadian institutions. Through Jacknife Consulting, she partners with organizations across sectors to design inclusive policies, develop culturally relevant curricula, and deliver impactful training on reconciliation, anti-racism, and Indigenous history. Her expertise has been sought by post-secondary institutions, government agencies, and corporations—including Rogers Communications, where she led Indigenous Corporate Development and Community Engagement. Sarah is also a sessional instructor at the University of Calgary's School of Public Policy and an active member of the Canadian Indigenous Leadership Circle and her writing has appeared in The Globe and Mail, CBC, and the Calgary Herald. Sarah's leadership is defined by her commitment to meaningful reconciliation, decolonization, and the creation of pathways for Indigenous economic and social prosperity. She currently resides in Calgary (Mohkinstsis) on Treaty 7 territory. Host: Rod Miller — President and COO of the Connect Partnership Group, producers of Forward Summit and Workforce Forward. Resources & Links: Learn more about Jacknife Consulting → https://jacknifeconsulting.ca/ Connect with Sarah Jacknife on LinkedIn → Click Here! Learn more about Forward Summit → https://forwardsummit.ca/ Follow Forward Summit on Social Media: LinkedIn Read the Forward Magazine → Magazine Link Forward Summit Events and Pricing: Register Now!