Beyond The Lair

EDGARD VILLANUEVA CRUZCEO of Turtle Island ConnectionTOPIC: The value, influence and impact of today’s youth.Edgard Villanueva Cruz is a budding leader and entrepreneur engrained with a mission to support the needs of Indigenous youth, economies and communities. As a Tahltan Nation member and a confident, engaging facilitator, Edgard leverages his leadership skills, honed through mentorship and hands-on experience, to drive impactful initiatives in youth leadership, policy development, and the dreams of Indigenous youth. His work embodies a collective, unified, and reciprocal approach, ensuring the needs of youth are met, and the protocol of the respective nation followed. As a champion of change, he always aims to inspire, educate and elevate.

LEAH COSSCo-Founder of Build a Biz Kids & Founder of BBK NetworkLeah’s journey, her why and the impact that instilling confidence in youth can make.Leah Coss is a visionary leader revolutionizing education by equipping youth with essential soft skills, hands-on experiences and a growth mindset so they can thrive in a rapidly evolving world. As the Co-Founder of Build a Biz Kids and Founder of BBK Network, Leah leverages her extensive background in franchise systems to develop scalable, cost-effective learning models that reach even the most vulnerable demographics. Her innovative approach to programming combines advanced learning methodologies with strategic collaborative partnerships to maximize impact and foster a culture of growth and inclusion. Driven by her passion for empowering individuals, Leah is on a mission to create a society where everyone recognizes and realizes their true value and has the confidence to take action on their ideas. 

Teara fraser • Founder of Iskwew AirTeara’s story about an unstoppable will to succeed at every level and push the limits of even her own expectations.Becoming a pilot was transformational, truly giving this Métis woman wings. Teara is the Founder of Iskwew Air and elibird aero. She believes that together in this innovative space we will reimagine, rematriate, and rebuild our air transportation system - centring equity and sustainability. Teara also founded the not-for-profit Indigenous LIFT Collective and has recently co-founded Liberty Wilderness Lodge. Teara has been named WXN Canada’s Most Powerful Women: Top 100, Top 25 Women of Influence, YWCA Woman of Distinction, and one of 24 ‘real world heroes’ in the DC Comics Wonder Woman anthology. In 2023 she received the Indigenous Business Award of Distinction for Lifetime Achievement by the BC Achievement Foundation.

RYAN ST. GERMAINE • Founder & CEO of the Indigenous Tech CircleHow Ryan created a circle to support, advance, educate and inspire Indigenous tech entrepreneurs and companies.Ryan St. Germaine is a seasoned entrepreneur, AI strategist, and advocate for Indigenous leadership in technology. As the Founder & CEO of the Indigenous Tech Circle, he established Canada’s largest Indigenous-led tech network, fostering growth, collaboration, and innovation among over 350 Indigenous founders, leaders, and changemakers. Now Board Chair of the Circle’s non-profit, he leads a 100%The Indigenous board focused on strategic vision and impactful programming.With a career spanning HRTech, EdTech, AI-driven insights, and social recruitment, Ryan has co-founded and led companies like BCjobs.ca and Jobcast to successful exits. His expertise includes AI, product development, marketplace innovation, and purpose-driven community building. As an Executive in Residence with Foresight Canada, New Ventures BC, and Raven Indigenous Capital Partners, he mentors founders on AI, scaling ventures, and community-driven impact. Known for building resilient tech ecosystems, Ryan empowers Indigenous professionals by connecting them to capital, mentorship, and growth.

Shain Jackson • President of Spirit Works Ltd.His journey making a difference as a lawyer, a social entrepreneur & leading change while improving Indigenous lives. Shain Niniwem Selapem Jackson is Coast Salish from the community of Sechelt. He is a lawyer who has represented the interests of Indigenous communities and organizations throughout British Columbia in relation to a broad array of issues. After years working within the Canadian legal system, Shain switched gears to begin exploring Indigenous laws and their codification within artwork.Artistically, Shain works in Coast Salish design. As he has continued to develop his own artwork to a higher level, he has had the privilege of collaborating with many well-known and up and coming artists.Currently Shain is the President of Spirit Works Limited, an Indigenous owned, operated and staffed company focused on the design, production and distribution of Indigenous artwork such as jewelry, bentwood boxes, paddles, and artworks integrated into building infrastructure.Shain has always taken very seriously his responsibilities not only to his own community, but to the larger urban Indigenous community. To further this he has developed programs aimed at providing employment and training to Indigenous youth; donates space, equipment and expertise to Indigenous artists in need; consistently donates time and artwork to numerous charitable organizations; has designed and facilitated workshops aimed at providing cultural teachings for at-risk Indigenous youth; and much more.

Steven Stark - President & CEO, Tsawwassen Shuttles Inc.Challenges from the past can lead to strength and perseverance for business in the futureSteven Stark’s journey is a testament to resilience. Born in Chilliwack, BC, he faced challenges with family instability, abuse, and undiagnosed dyslexia and deafness. Expelled at 15, he experienced homelessness, addiction, and incarceration. At 24, a family intervention led him to rehab, where he rebuilt his life. Steven worked in carpentry and fishing while earning his 150GT maritime certificate. In 2011, he founded Tsawwassen Shuttles Inc. (TSI), which grew into a leading employer in the Tsawwassen First Nation community. TSI now offers transportation, street sweeping, water trucks, and marine logistics, serving a variety of industries. Steven's motto: "Persistence Overcomes Resistance."

Keerit Jutla - President & CEO, AME The importance of meaningful participation in the mining sector, highlighting reconciliation, education, & building mutual respect between Indigenous peoples and industry.Keerit is the President and CEO of the Association for Mineral Exploration BC (“AME”). He is a lawyer with a decade of experience in the natural resource sector, working with and acting for both mining companies and First Nations. Keerit is passionate about responsible natural resource development and brings with him a depth of knowledge and a unique perspective on the opportunities and challenges facing the entire spectrum of mineral exploration and development. Prior to joining AME, Keerit spent two years with the BC provincial government at the Environmental Assessment Office and the Ministry of Energy, Mines and Low Carbon Innovation, where he focused on promoting permit efficiency for mineral exploration projects and operationalizing the Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples Act, striving to build permitting certainty to both companies and First Nations. Keerit has also practiced regulatory and Aboriginal law across a variety of industries, including oil and gas, oil sands, pipelines, LNG and mining. Over his career, he has assisted companies and First Nations to develop impact benefit agreements and negotiate joint venture deals and equity investment for First Nations in the natural resource sector. Keerit holds a Bachelor of Arts in political science from the University of Western Ontario and a Master of Arts in political science from the University of Windsor. He completed a Master of Business Administration and Juris Doctor at the University of Alberta, with an applied focus on natural resources and Aboriginal law.

Jeff Ward - Founder & CEO, Animikii - Building a career in technology, the power of AI, and why data sovereignty is crucial for Indigenous communities. Jeff founded Animikii in 2003 and has orchestrated and managed its growth ever since. Everything Jeff does in business is geared toward uplifting his family, communities and Indigenous Peoples. He is Ojibwe and Métis, originally from Manitoba, and now lives and works in Victoria, BC on Lekwungen territory. Jeff is a software developer, product designer, author, and speaker. He also serves as Vice Chair for the Aboriginal Peoples Television Network (APTN) board.

Zinat H. Damji - President & CEO, Alliance Trust Company: Core values from the first female in Canada to have founded a Corporate Trust company and how the social impact from supporting Indigenous communities feels.Zinat comes from a family of entrepreneurs and believes in paying it forward. She thrives on the excitement of starting and growing successful companies, with a strong reputation for integrity and professionalism—key traits for running a trust company. Early in her career, Zinat founded Corporate Shareholder Services Inc., driven by a desire to provide cost‐effective, high‐quality service. She raised $100,000 in 30 minutes from a corporate contact, later securing $2.7 million from 14 investors to launch Valiant Trust Company, which was sold to Canadian Western Bank. Zinat took a break to travel the world, then raised $2.8 million for a new venture, Alliance Trust Company, which received its Trust Charter in 2007. Alliance Trust emphasizes community support, including initiatives like camps for Indigenous teens through Bears Lair. Zinat’s journey is a testament to succeeding as a female and visible minority in the male‐dominated finance industry.

Leadership, partnerships and the evolution of the Haisla Nation.Crystal Smith, elected Chief Councillor of the Haisla Nation since 2017, has led groundbreaking initiatives like the Cedar LNG Project, the world’s first Indigenous majority-owned LNG facility, and established a fully electric-powered tugboat fleet in partnership with Seaspan. As Chair of the First Nations LNG Alliance, she champions economic and employment opportunities for BC’s Indigenous communities, balancing sustainable development with cultural preservation. Smith holds a Diploma in Business Administration from Coast Mountain College, a Business Skills Certificate from Thompson Rivers University, and is an ICD.D certified director.

The importance of relationship building, teamwork and promoting programs that support financial literacy, entrepreneurism and affordable housing. A spotlight on Vancity's new program - The Wealth Mindset Program.Michelle, Director of Indigenous Banking at Vancity, drives Reconciliation efforts and fosters partnerships with Indigenous members, organizations, and communities. With a background in various management roles at Vancity, Michelle has led initiatives like opening a remote branch in Alert Bay with the ‘Namgis First Nation. Married to a member of the Northwest Territory Métis Nation and with distant Ojibway ancestry, she is dedicated to embedding Reconciliation into Vancity’s values. Residing in South Delta, Michelle is active on environmental and cultural boards and enjoys time on the Fraser River and supporting her children’s sports.

Evolution and the rise of the BC lions + their social impact and initiatives on and off the field.George Sr.VP Business at BC Lions Football Club, has been a pivotal figure with the BC Lions for over three decades, serving in roles such as Director of Marketing and Vice President of both Football and Business Operations, contributing extensively to the team’s on- and off-field success. Since 1997, he has focused on business development, managing partnerships and driving new revenue initiatives. An SFU alumnus and former player and coach, George also worked as a player agent representing over 40 CFL athletes. He has been instrumental in helping to organize six Grey Cups in Vancouver, was a founding member of the Waterboys to connect the Lions with the business community, and has earned accolades like the CFL Commissioners Award and induction into the BC Football Hall of Fame. A devoted supporter of SFU Football, George continues to serve in leadership roles for various football organizations and resides in Burnaby, BC, with his fiancée Velvet.

Chelsee Pettit, Founder of Aaniin Retail joins Geena Jackson-Montgomery and Dean Montgomery as they chat about life after winning season 2 of Bears' Lair TV,  fulfilling a lifelong dream, a new pop-up shop launch, product diversification and enhancing customer engagement.Chelsee Pettit is an Anishinaabe member of Aamjiwnaang First Nation and creator of Aanin Retail Inc., a 100-percent Indigenous-owned department store. Launched as a streetwear brand in 2021, Aaniin is on a mission to reclaim the Indigenous economy through fashion and commerce, while working as a hub to create opportunities for emerging Indigenous entrepreneurs.

Corey Janvier - Owner of Cedar Brush Indigenous Site Services & JanitorialSeason 2 Contestant of Bears' Lair TVStarting a company just 3 years ago with $400 and a staff of 2 to right now having 100 employees and 3 different divisions and how important relationship building really is.Corey Janvier is a member of the Chipewyan Prairie Dene First Nation in Alberta and owner of Cedar Brush Indigenous Site Services & Janitorial. Cedar Brush provides essential services such as commercial cleaning, Indigenous home care, property management, and cleaning solutions to Indigenous communities, organizations, Elders, families and individuals in Metro Vancouver and beyond. 

Harlan Kingfisher - Founder of Smudge the BladesSeason 2 Contestant of Bears' Lair TVOvercoming racism in minor and junior hockey and his quest to break down barriers, elevate youth and celebrate achievements in sports, while paving a way for athletes, entrepreneurs and fans worldwide. Harlan Kingfisher of Sturgeon Lake First Nation is the founder of Smudge the Blades, a hockey apparel company out of Saskatchewan that pays homage to First Nations hockey culture. A portion of the company’s sales goes to helping First Nations youth buy hockey equipment and pay hockey registration fees. 

Dave Tuccaro - President & CEO of Tuccaro Group of CompaniesGrowing up, being a natural born entrepreneur from humble beginnings, to creating companies with annual revenues of over 2 billion dollars but most importantly finding the balance between family and life.Dave is a proud member of the Mikisew Cree First Nation of Fort Chipewyan, Alberta. Under his leadership, the Tuccaro Group has grown into to seven well-respected companies that provide a range of services to companies and people across Alberta, the core of Canada’s energy sector. Dave was recognized by the Financial Post as a “Top 40 under 40′ leader in 1998, won a National Aboriginal Achievement Award in 1999, was featured in Venture magazine in 2000 as one of Alberta’s 50 Most Influential People. He was the Chair of the Board for Indspire for over 20 years, and his companies support local sports teams, education and health initiatives.

Prominent Chief, Astute Business Leader and Advocate for Youth. A true leader  speaking on what a better Canadian society can look like today.Willie Sellars was born and raised in Williams Lake, BC and is a member of the Williams Lake First Nation (“WLFN” or “T’exelc”) of the Secwepemc Nation. Elected to WLFN Council at the age of 23 in 2008, Willie was one of the youngest elected Councilors in WLFN history. After serving 10 years on Council he was elected as the Chief of the Williams Lake First Nation in 2018 and is currently in his second term. In his previous work experience, Willie worked as a Wildland Firefighter for the Ministry of Forests, Lands and Natural Resource Operations before returning to his community to assume the position of Special Project Coordinator in the WLFN Economic Development Department. During this time he was responsible for new business initiatives flowing from Impact Benefit Agreements, engagement with proponents in the traditional territory and community consultation for major WLFN projects.Willie is also a published author of “Dipnetting with Dad,” which won a Moonbeam Children’s Book Award, and was shortlisted for the Chocolate Lily, Shining Willow, and Ontario Library Association awards. His second book, “Hockey with Dad,'' was released in the Fall of 2021. Willie enjoys his family time with his partner and five kids, powwow dancing, playing hockey with the Williams Lake Stampeders, attending community events at WLFN, hunting and dipnet fishing.

Josh nilson - founder of Maskwa InvestmentsHis Journey to Becoming CEO of one of the Largest Gaming Companies & How the Advancement of Tech can Make a DifferenceJosh Nilson, is Metis and from Willow River, BC. He is the founder of Maskwa Investments which focuses on early stage seed funding and advisement with a focus on Indigenous tech businesses. Prior to that he was a founder at East Side Games (ESG), making mobile games like Trailer Park Boys, The Office, Ru Paul Drag Race Superstar and more. ESG went public in 2021. Josh has been working in tech since 2002 and was recognized as one of the most influential business leaders in the province as part of the BC500 in 2021, 2022, 2023. Just recently, Josh was named Person of the Year 2022 at the BC Tech Technology Impact Awards and included in the Hall of Fame. 

YOLONDA SKELTON - Gitxsan Textile Artist and Fashion Designer at Sugiit Lukxs DesignsFrom the Runway, Film and Television - the Meaning of her Designs, Fabrics, Energy and Giving BackYolonda Skelton Sugiit Lukxs (Sug-iit-looks) is a visionary fashion/costume designer from the Gitxsan First Nations, whose work beautifully intertwines her cultural heritage with contemporary aesthetics. Yolonda's deep connection to her roots as taught to her by her late maternal grandmother Lily Jackson is evident in each and every one of her creations. Her innate ability to fuse the old and the new has made her a trailblazer in the industry, captivating audiences worldwide with her unique style.Yolonda's designs tell stories of her ancestors, invoking a sense of pride and reverence for the Gitxsan culture. She honors the traditions passed down through generations while embracing the ever-evolving world of fashion.Yolonda's acclaimed designs have graced the runways of prestigious fashion shows, attracting a loyal following. She consistently pushes the boundaries of what is possible, challenging conventional fashion and redefining what it means to be an Indigenous designer.

Bobbie racette - FOUNDER & CEO OF VIRTUAL GURUSGrowing up an Introvert & the Creation of one of the Largest Virtual Assistant Platforms on the PlanetBobbie Racette, a trailblazing Métis-Cree tech entrepreneur, epitomizes innovation and social change as the Founder & CEO of Virtual Gurus. Her visionary approach has redefined the remote work sector, advocating for inclusivity and equitable opportunities for historically marginalized communities. Under her leadership, Virtual Gurus has become one of North America's premier Talent Place platforms. Bobbie's numerous achievements include being named Indigenous Entrepreneur of the Year in 2022, EY Winning Women 2022 and receiving the Distinguished Entrepreneur of the Year award from the University of Victoria’s Gustavson School of Business in 2023. Her commitment to social equity and community extends beyond her business, as evidenced by her role as the inaugural Chair of the Board for the Indigenous Prosperity Foundation and as a Telus Friendly Future Foundation Board member. Through her initiatives, Bobbie not only opens doors for diverse talent but also instills a belief that "no" is not an answer, paving the way for groundbreaking success stories.

Social impacts, politics and campaigning for the rights of others. 

The importance of where we are, where we come from and who we are as Indigenous people and what true reconciliation means to us from Indigenous communities and industry.

Authenticity, Relationship Building and Making a Difference with Profit for Purpose and the Prevention of Human Trafficking 

Growing up in the North, Graduating from Harvard and becoming the CEO of Cedar Leaf CapitalClint Davis is a Senior Advisor at Scotiabank and the incoming CEO of Cedar Leaf Capital, the first Indigenous majority-owned investment dealer in Canada. He founded North35, a firm helping Indigenous governments and businesses. As former CEO of Nunasi Corporation, he led significant divestments, property sales, and investment growth. Clint started as a lawyer in St. John’s, NL, then served as a Senior Advisor to Ministers of Indian and Northern Affairs Canada. He transitioned to finance, holding leadership roles at BMO, the Canadian Council for Aboriginal Business, and TD, where he developed Indigenous Banking strategies. Clint received the Indspire Award in Business and Commerce and is an Hon. Lt. Col. of the Queen’s York Rangers. He holds degrees from Harvard, Dalhousie, and Acadia University. An Inuk from Labrador, Clint was born and raised in Goose Bay.

Meet Chris and learn more about the Klahoose Wilderness Resort where one lucky family will win a 4 day discover Klahoose prize package this season on Bears Lair!

Journey into the Indigenous Tourism Industry, who we are now, where the industry is going and tools for advancing to the next level

Honouring the land, core values, promoting indigenous culture and experience in creating a corporate culture based on knowledge, education and respect.

The importance of authentic partnerships, due diligence, doing what is right for your community and developing economic prosperity

Reconcili-action, Indigenous Advancement and Working Collectively Together

Matriarch Leadership, Lessons from Sports, Fashion and Leading the Next Generation

Insights on Authentic Social Impact, Profit with Purpose and Learning from Listening

Transformation, stardom, leadership and making a difference

Entrepreneurialism, technology, living with a superpower, preserving and protecting Indigenous language and art.

Finding your purpose, making a difference, and enhancing industry relations with Indigenous communities, one at a time.

Past, present, and incredible future of storytelling of new 6-part series Back to the Fire. In search of lost values that could change the world!Chief Gibby Jacob, whose ancestral name is Kákeltn siyám (pr. Kokel ten See yam) carries the title of hereditary Chief and is a member of the Squamish Nation located in North Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada. He is one of the most influential Native leaders in Canada. With Chief Jacob’s leadership, the Squamish Nation will be worth $5 Billion from business revenue, royalties, and real estate assets in a few short years.  He was also instrumental in the development of the Sen̓áḵw (pr. Sen awk) real estate development in the Kitsilano area of Vancouver, BC.He has won the Queen’s Jubilee Medal in 2013, the BC Aboriginal Business Award in 2017, and the Senate 150 Anniversary Medal in 2018. Chief Jacob's knowledge and experience has provided direction and he has been the liaison for special projects and files. This includes negotiations between the various levels of government (Ministerial, Deputy Minister levels), stakeholders, partners and the Nation on projects dealing with natural resources, accommodation, and consultation. 

Authentic relationship building and moments that matter.Angie leads the advisory services team for Grant Thornton, in Newfoundland and Labrador. She has previously worked in the assurance services, business risk advisory, and corporate finance services groups.When clients are facing a period of growth, Angie creates value by assisting with their business planning, preparing financing proposals, and calculating their business value. She has helped clients from the initial stages of business planning through acquisitions, expansions, and sale decisions providing continuous support.Whether a business is starting up, expanding, or selling, Angie and her team have the expertise needed to help it navigate through every stage.