Cyber Security and Effective Cost Control Measures
[Room 519, Level 5]

Part I – In this session, we’ll explore a practical, enterprise-ready approach to Data Protection that begins with understanding what the business truly needs to protect, and why. We’ll walk through a tiered framework that translates those requirements into a cohesive data protection, leak prevention, and tampering-resilience strategy. From there, we’ll show how this strategy becomes the backbone of effective Data Protection governance and ultimately shapes a Target Operating Model that is both sustainable and scalable. Join us to learn how this structured approach not only strengthens protection but also yields a clear, actionable roadmap to maximize the value of your existing technology stack.

Part II – KPMG has been a leader in conducting service delivery reviews; helping communities take costs out of government. Bruce Peever has been at the forefront of this work and has significantly contributed to the thinking around more efficient and effective service delivery. He will share his thoughts on what he keeps seeing in his work, lessons learned and the potential pitfalls of embarking on service reviews.

Speakers: Afnen Arfaoui, Antonia Mihai, and Guillaume Payette, KPMG
Bruce Peever, Partner, Public Sector Practice, KPMG

Moderator: Mathieu Tanguay, M.Sc., CFA, President and Senior Partner, Triasima

The Value of Good Governance – Real World Examples
[Room 520 AD, Level 5]

Strong governance is a cornerstone of economic prosperity and community resilience. In this panel session, leaders from an Economic
Development Corporation and a First Nation Trust will share how implementing robust governance standards has contributed to their
success. From housing development to enterprise growth, the panelists will share real-world examples of how strong governance
underpins strategic planning, capacity building, and sustainable growth. Attendees will leave with actionable insights on how sound
governance not only drives wealth creation but also advances reconciliation and supports self -determination.

Speakers: Travis Seymour, FCPA, FCGA, CAFM, MBA, Chief Executive Officer, First Nations Market Housing Fund
Fred Vicaire, BBA, Chief Executive Officer, Mi’gmawei Mawiomi Business Corporation
Sharon Hunter, Executive Director, Long Point First Nation

Moderator: Natalia Valeev, CPA, CA, Director, Certification, First Nations Financial Management Board

Kahnawà:ke Sovereign Wealth Fund and Our Financial Future
[Room 520BE, Level 5]

How Kahnawà:ke means to gain financial sovereignty for its people through generating, and growing, own source revenue. We are
committed to securing financial independence for generations to come through sustainable energy projects, gaming revenue, real estate
and infrastructure investments, and other public trading opportunities as they are presented to us. We remain focused on pioneering
First Nation involvement in major infrastructure projects at the municipal, provincial, and federal levels.

Speakers: Paul Rice, Lead Ratsenhaienhs (Chief) on Economic Development, Mohawk Council of Kahnawà:ke
Chief Iohahiio Delisle, Mohawk Council of Kahnawà:ke
Chief Ryan Montour, Mohawk Council of Kahnawà:ke

Moderator: Rhonda Hicks, Sr. Manager – Indigenous Relations, Nutrien

Weathering the Storm: Managing Investment Risk in Uncertain Markets
[Room 520 CF, Level 5]

Market volatility, inflation, and shifting interest rates challenge even the most resilient portfolios. This session focuses on how Indigenous
Trusts can manage risk while maintaining long term growth. Peace Hills Trust will outline strategies for disciplined rebalancing, liquidity
planning, and scenario testing to protect capital and support informed decision making. Through practical examples, participants will learn
how clear governance and investment discipline help Trusts sustain performance through economic uncertainty and ensure stability for
current and future generations.

Speakers: Ryan Bruce, B.Comm, Assistant Vice President, Trust Performance and Compliance, Peace Hills Trust
Jeremy Vander Hoek, BBA, Associate Vice President, Trust Performance and Compliance, Peace Hills Trust

Moderator: Glen Rattray, CFA, Senior Investment Counsellor, Dixon Mitchell Investment Counsel

SPVs: Accelerating Nation-Building Projects
[Room 524, Level 5]

Budget 2025 outlined Canada’s intention to amend the First Nations Fiscal Management Act (2005) and enable First Nations Finance Authority (FNFA) to lend to Indigenous-owned Special Purpose Vehicles (SPVs). Join the leaders of FNFA and learn how this new pathway will further enhance access for Indigenous groups, and Nations of any size, to secure affordable financing and participate in economic and resource development projects.

Speakers: Jody Anderson, CAPA, Vice President of Partnerships, Strategy and Public Affairs, First Nations Finance Authority
Ernie Daniels, CPA, CGA, CAFM, President and Chief Executive Officer, First Nations Finance Authority
Rachel McAllister, CPA, CA, CAFM, Chief Financial and Operating Officer, First Nations Finance Authority
Chief Derek Epp, Ch’íyáqtel First Nation, Chairperson of First Nations Finance Authority

Moderator: Tom Maracle, Indigenous Market and Business Development, Xerox Corp

Challenges/Solutions for Governance and Senior Management in 2026 and Beyond
[Room 525, Level 5]

Boards of Directors and the senior management who serve and support them are facing new and changing realities as well as potential
opportunities. Key areas will be highlighted in support of capacity building and strategic decision-making

Speaker: Richard Jock, Experienced First Nations Executive and Management Consultant

Moderator: Jennifer Saeckl, Of Counsel, Mshkawzi Law, LLP

Building Generational Wealth Through Partnership
[Room 522, Level 5]

Across the country, Indigenous Nations are leading new wealth-generation frameworks grounded in self-determination. This session
shares case-based insights from Seven Generations Capital on building enduring partnerships that align cultural values with economic
opportunity. Using examples from work with Nations such as Osoyoos Indian Band, Westbank First Nation, and others, it explores
governance readiness, valuation, and shared-benefit development models. Participants will gain practical knowledge to strengthen
partnership opportunities, attract investment on community terms, and sustain prosperity across generations — bridging Indigenous
and Western approaches to finance, partnership, and land development.

Speakers: Andrew Hungerford, CPA, Founder and Partner, Seven Generations Capital

Moderator: Robert Campbell, PAED, National Director & Provincial Director (MB & N.W. ON), Indigenous Services, MNP

Braiding Mind, Body and Spirit: A Financial Wellness Bundle
[Room 523, Level 5]

This presentation introduces Braiding Mind, Body, and Spirit: A Financial Wellness Bundle—a national collaboration between AFOA Canada, Prosper Canada, and Indigenous scholar Simon Brascoupé. The resource represents the next stage of Indigenous financial literacy innovation, moving beyond adaptation of Western tools to create resources grounded in Indigenous knowledge systems. Participants will gain both theoretical and practical insights into how financial wellness can support self-determination and reconciliation. The presentation will also include a participatory activity from the bundle to demonstrate how Indigenous worldviews can inform financial education practice.

Speakers: Simon Brascoupé, Hon. DUniv., MA, CAPA, CFNHM, Kitigan Zibi Anishinabeg, Senior Fellow, University of Ottawa; Adjunct Research Professor, Carleton University and Trent University.
Pam Ouart-McNabb, PhD. Vice President, Education and Training, AFOA Canada
Jenni Bolton, MPA, Manager, Community Learning and Engagement, Prosper Canada

Standard Setting in Partnership: Advancing Indigenous Engagement at PSAB, the CSSB and the AASB
[Room 519, Level 5]

This presentation brings together representatives from the Public Sector Accounting Board (PSAB), Canadian Sustainability Standards
Board (CSSB), and the Auditing and Assurance Standards Board (AASB), to share how each board is integrating Indigenous perspectives
and insights into its standard-setting processes and to provide an update on relevant standards. The session will highlight how the
Boards are developing pathways for Indigenous leadership, feedback, and engagement in shaping Canada’s financial reporting,
sustainability standards and assurance standards.

Speakers: Helen Bobiwash, FCPA, FCMA, CAFM, GCB.D. CCB.D. ICD.D, Member, Public Sector Accounting Board
Wendy Berman, LLB, Chair, Canadian Sustainability Standards Board
Sophie Miller, CPA, CA, Member, Auditing and Assurance Standards Board

Moderator: Doretta Thompson, CAPA, Board Director, AFOA Canada

Navigating Specific Claims: Legal, Insurance & Financial Strategies for Empowered Decision Making
[Room 520 AD, Level 5]

A panel featuring Indigenous lawyer Alisa Lombard, indigenous banker Jaimie Lickers and moderated by insurance broker Simon Gibson will explore strategies for Nations to fund, insure and negotiate their Specific Claims. The focus is on promoting equity and maximizing financial growth and opportunity for the next seven generations. Hear insights from Canada’s leading insurance broker, an indigenous lawyer, banker and First Nation Chief as they share their perspective on the current market. The discussion aims to help clarify this complex landscape and offer direction, empowering Nations with informed choices.

Speakers: Alisa Lombard, Lawyer & Principal, Lombard Law
Jaimie Lickers, Senior Vice President, Indigenous Markets, CIBC

Moderator: Simon Gibson, LL.B (Hons), Senior Vice President, Aon Reed Stenhouse Inc.

Strategic Planning:  Criteria for High Impact, Investment Opportunities
[Room 520 BE, Level 5]

Indigenous communities face an influx of investment proposals, making it critical to identify projects that deliver measurable results and align with long-term goals. This session will equip leaders with practical tools and proven strategies to evaluate opportunities, prioritize high-value projects, and make decisions that maximize profitability and community impact. Learn how to apply clear criteria to avoid misaligned investments, focus on initiatives that drive sustainable growth, and turn strategic planning into tangible financial success.

Speaker: Patrick Lahey, Partner Tax Services, Doane Grant Thornton
Troy MacDonald, Partner Advisory Services, Doane Grant Thornton

Moderator: Alli Cheng, Tax Senior Manager, Doane Grant Thornton 

Sponsored by: Doane Grant Thornton

Effective Planning, Creation and Implementation of your Trust
[Room 520 CF, Level 5]

This session covers the fundamentals of aligning investment strategies with community objectives, incorporating
community vision, member engagement, and sustainable growth for future generations. We will touch on how to develop
effective investment policies, diversified portfolios, evaluate managers, and implement on-going performance monitoring
to ensure informed decision-making and long-term financial sustainability.

Speaker: Kain Big Canoe, CFA, CPA. Principal, Mercer Indigenous Services
Gordon Clissold, FCPA, FCGA, Principal, Mercer Indigenous Services
Bonnie Foley-Wong, Sustainable Investment Leader, Mercer Canada

Moderator: Michael Tees, Vice President, Mercer Indigenous Services

Sponsored by: Mercer Indigenous Services

Empowering Potential: Investing in Indigenous Talent and Leadership
[Room 520 AD, Level 5]

Explore how Indigenous communities and organizations are investing in human capital to drive lasting success. This session highlights
strategies for attracting, developing, and retaining Indigenous talent, as well as practical tools for leadership development, mentorship,
and succession planning rooted in Indigenous knowledge and values. Discuss approaches to building inclusive workplaces that support
well-being, innovation, and long-term capacity. Gain insights into emerging trends in education, skills development, and professional
certification for Indigenous professionals. Drawing from Deloitte’s experience, this session shares examples and frameworks that
support community-driven talent pipelines and leadership growth. Join the conversation to exchange ideas and approaches for
empowering current and future Indigenous leaders and fostering meaningful, sustainable impact.

Speaker: Line Duranleau, CHRP, National Leader, Power, Utilities and Renewable and Human Capital Partner, Deloitte Canada
Anne-Marie Éthier, FCPA, Audit Partner, Board Member, Deloitte Canada & Chile

Moderator: Myan Marcen-Gaudaur, Director, Indigenous Relations and Reconciliation, Scotiabank

Leadership Compensation: Insights and Conversations
[Room 525, Level 5]

This workshop provides an informative look at Chief and Council compensation, recognizing that each Nation approaches this topic
differently based on its own governance realities and community expectations. Using provincial data and a composite case study, the
session explores broad patterns by population and revenue while highlighting the diversity of practices rather than suggesting standards.
Participants will engage in interactive and anonymous reflection activities to explore where their Nation may sit within wider trends. The
workshop creates space for conversation on leadership workload and compensation, encouraging participants to reflect on what
supports or discussions may be useful for their own contexts.

Speakers: Dr. Tasha Brooks, DBA, Assistant Professor (Royal Roads) and Councillor (Cowichan Tribes)

Moderator: Travis Seymour, FCPA, FCGA, CAFM, MBA, Chief Executive Officer, First Nations Market Housing Fund

A New Zealand Māori Blueprint for Change
[Room 522, Level 5]

Explore the transformative investments of our Māori tribe, Ngāti Whātua Ōrākei, into the wellbeing of our people. Hear our story of being one the most financially stable tribes in New Zealand and the largest social impact investor in our country’s largest city, Auckland. We’ll share how our tribe is creating pathways for better housing, healthcare access and cultural revitalization. Join me to learn how these initiatives are empowering our people and ensuring a vibrant future for generations ahead.

Speaker: Leah Davis, Governance Board Director, Ngāti Whātua Ōrākei Whai Rawa, Aotearoa

Moderator: David S.J. Boisvert, President and Chief Executive Officer, Peace Hills Trust

Indigenousfiscaltools.ca – Essential resources for Management, Finance and Governance
[Room 523, Level 5]

This interactive session will highlight the progress and development of the revised First Nations Fiscal Planning Webtool, a
modernized and user-focused resource webtool for First Nations and Indigenous organizations, developed by AFOA Canada. This session
will outline key milestones achieved so far and the next steps toward delivering this innovative web-based fiscal
planning tool. Participants will have the opportunity to share their insights and suggestions, ensuring the tool
meets the unique needs of First Nations communities. Your feedback will play a vital role in shaping the next
phase of development.

Speaker: Justin Jimmy, Owner, Urban Cree Consulting

Breaking the Bottleneck: Financial Statement Delays
[Room 519, Level 5]

Timely financial reporting is critical for Indigenous governments to maintain transparency, secure funding, and support long-term
community development. Yet many Indigenous governments face persistent delays in producing timely audited financial statement s.
Based on a comprehensive research study conducted by the First Nations Financial Management Board, the delays stem from a range of
challenges, including limited capacity, technological gaps, complex regulations, regional disparities, funding constraints, and broader
service barriers. This session will explore how the financial institutions established under the First Nations Fiscal Management Act can
help Indigenous governments overcome these challenges by addressing the root causes.

Speakers: Natalia Valeev, CPA, CA, Director, Certification, First Nations Financial Management Board
Rachel McAllister, CPA, CA, CAFM, Chief Financial & Operating Officer, First Nations Finance Authority
Vincent Goodvoice, MBA. CPA, PMP, Project Manager, First Nations Financial Management Board

Moderator: Sharon Stevenson, CAFM, CAPA, CIHRP, Board Director, AFOA Canada 

Rebuilding Indigenous Governance: Strengthening Leadership and Policy under Section 35
[Room 524, Level 5]

This panel unites leaders from the Rebuilding First Nations Governance Project (RFNG) and the Centre for First Nations Governance (CFNG) to share insights from national research and community partnerships advancing self-government under Section 35. Presentations will explore leadership retention and Bill C-92 implementation, policy and legislative reform, and consultation and accommodation frameworks for self-governing Nations. Together, the panel highlights how Indigenous Nations are moving beyond the Indian Act toward inherent jurisdiction through stronger leadership and governance capacity.

Speakers: Dr. Mason Ducharme, Executive Director, Centre for First Nations Governance and National Community Research Director for the Rebuilding First Nations Governance
Catherine MacQuarrie, Project Manager, Rebuilding First Nations Governance
Dr. Giuseppe Amantulli, Post-Doctoral Fellow, Rebuilding First Nations Governance

Moderator: Pheroz Austin, AVP Eastern Canada, Indigenous Banking, TD Bank Group

Building Indigenous Pathways to Agricultural Finance and Food Sovereignty
[Room 520 BE, Level 5]

Delivered by Mokwateh LP under the Farm Credit Canada Indigenous Agriculture and Food Systems Initiative, this workshop share s
early themes from national conversations on Indigenous agriculture and food systems. Participants will gain a practical understanding
of agricultural finance realities and barriers, discuss approaches that support community economic resilience, and exchange ideas
with finance professionals from across Canada. The session connects emerging research with the everyday financial governance work
of AFOA members and how agriculture and finance intersect in Indigenous financial & food sovereignty.

Speakers: Miya Inkster, Senior Manager at Mokwateh

Sponsored by: FCC

Constructing Resilient Portfolios for Indigenous Trusts
[Room 520 CF, Level 5]

Indigenous communities are faced with several economic challenges: inflation pressure, geopolitical risks, member needs, and sustained
market volatility, which are increasing pressure on Trust investments. Portfolio strategies that have worked in the past may no longer
provide the diversification and resilience investors need. This session will examine how Indigenous communities can increase the
resilience of their Trust portfolio to secure distributions and long-term purchasing power.

Speakers: Alexander Comeau, CFA, Head of Private Market Sales, Fiera Capital
Alvina Siddiqui, CIM – Investment Counsellor, Fiera Capital Private Wealth

Moderator: Jaimie Lickers, Senior Vice President, Indigenous Markets, CIBC

Navigating High-Pressure Moments: Manager Tools for Safe and Compassionate Responses
[Room 520 AD, Level 5]

This 90-minute session is designed for managers who support staff in community-facing workplaces where individuals may arrive
overwhelmed, distressed, or behaving unpredictably. The session provides practical tools to respond with calm, clarity, and compassion
while maintaining a safe and supportive environment, including effective approaches to de-escalation, how to maintain professional
boundaries, and how to guide their teams through challenging moments with confidence. Participants will learn to recognize early signs
of escalating tension, apply grounded and respectful techniques to stabilize situations, support staff using policy and clear
communication, maintain personal composure under pressure, and determine when to step in, step back, or seek additional support

Speakers: Tanya Neitzert, BA, CHRP, Partner, Boreala Management
Justine Carrière, BBA, CHRP, Senior Consultant, Boreala Management

Moderator: Joshua Letendre, CPA, MPAcc, Board Member, CPA Education Foundation

From Advocacy to Action: Indigenous Governance in Motion
[Room 525, Level 5]

At First Light, we restructured our Indigenous research and advocacy systems through the creation of the Advocacy Council—a governance
model that empowers urban Indigenous voices to guide community priorities. The Council leads Action Circles focused on he alth, justice,
housing, education, and economic development, and mobilizes outcomes through the annual Gathering of Voices forum. This session
explores how this model bridges Indigenous and Western knowledge systems to strengthen capacity, leadership, and accountability.
Participants will experience the process firsthand through an interactive Action Circle simulation and discussion of lessons learned from our
evolving governance journey.

Speakers: Chad Bedard, DIP. Ind. Public Policy, B.Ed, MA, Ind Ed, Manager of Knowledge Mobilization, First Light Friendship Centre
Marc Humber, Community Empowerment Liaison, First Light Friendship Centre

Moderator: Michelle Frances-Denny, MBA, Sr. Manager Indigenous Relations & Community Engagement, Bird Construction 

Beyond IBAs: Equity Ownership for Community Wealth
[Room 522, Level 5]

Traditional IBAs are evolving. The future of Indigenous wealth generation lies in direct equity ownership. This session moves from theory
to practice, exploring innovative models for communities to secure and finance equity stakes in major projects. Using real-world lessons
learned, we will detail practical strategies for negotiation, structuring partnerships, and growing community capacity for long-term
governance and revenue management. Participants will gain actionable insights to build stronger communities through asset ownership,
supporting designations like CAFM and CAPA.

Speakers: Jason Resevych, Board Director, Waawoono Consultancy
Maite Fink, CPA, EMBA, Waawoono Consultancy
Landen Jourdain, Waawoono Consultancy

Moderator: Booker Cornea, Associate Vice President, Market and Shareholder Engagement, First Nations Bank of Canada

Alternative Financing for Indigenous Housing? A Social-Impact Approach for Housing Outcomes
[Room 523, Level 5]

The current approach to financing housing on reserve is failing most First Nation communities. Why? Because the amounts and types of funding rarely support housing that truly reflects the needs and values of Indigenous peoples. But what if First Nations could harness the power of social impact investing to finance housing at affordable rates? In this session, we’ll explore the conditions required to make this approach viable and attractive for communities, investors, and bond issuers alike.

Speakers: Roger Casgrain, Executive Vice President, Casgrain and Company
Alicia Dubois, Chief Investment Officer, Boann Funds Inc.

Moderator: Dan Brant, PhD, MASc, MPA, CAFM, Board Director, AFOA Canada

Hishuk ish tsawalk – Everything is Connected: The Secret Sauce to Financial Health
[Room 519, Level 5]

Finance is more than numbers – it’s the foundation of strong governance and effective decision-making. This session explores how
leadership, management, and administrative teams can work together to strengthen financial health and accountability across the
organization. Participants will learn how to foster collaboration between departments, align financial practices with community values,
and address common challenges that impact reporting and planning. Using real examples and practical tools, we’ll uncove r the “secret
sauce” behind Nations that achieve financial harmony – where everyone understands their role in supporting transparency,
sustainability, and informed decisions for the future.

Speakers: Melanie Touche, Senior Manager, Indigenous Services, MNP, Member of the Tla-o-qui-aht First Nation

Moderator: Carol Reimer, CAFM, Board Director, AFOA Canada

Braiding Business and Belonging: Indigenous Women Leading with Purpose
[Room 520 AD, Level 5]

Three Indigenous women from across Turtle Island share how they are reshaping entrepreneurship on their own terms—rooted in
community, culture, and collective strength. Grounded in community over competition, each leads innovative programs that blend
Indigenous knowledge with modern tools like maker spaces, AI, and design thinking. They’ll explore how being Indigenous women
shapes their leadership, decision-making, and program design—centering relationality, reciprocity, and care. Through stories of
challenge and triumph, they’ll reflect on navigating Western systems while staying true to Indigenous values, revealing what truly works
when creating spaces where Indigenous innovation and entrepreneurship can flourish authentically and sustainably.

Speakers: Ashley Richard, MMIE, President, Ashley Richard & Associates Inc.
Amy Jackson, Director, Mittohnee Pogo’ohtah, RRC Polytech
Tia Larocque-Graham, Director, Innovation, Saskatchewan Indian Institute of Technologies

Moderator: Trish Hayter, Director, Market Activation, RBC Origins, RBC Royal Bank

Supporting the Future of Housing
[Room 520 BE, Level 5]

Meeting housing needs of Indigenous communities requires both access to capital and the capacity to use it effectively. This session
explores how financial institutions can help bridge access-to-capital gaps for on- and off-reserve housing by sharing expertise on
financial planning and structuring financial projects.

Topics include aligning community housing goals with capital readiness, exploring various funding sources such as Banks, CMHC, NICHI,
etc., and providing guidance on structure and security models unique to these types of projects. By strengthening financial capacity and
investment planning, communities can turn housing development into a foundation for long-term wealth creation and economic
resilience.

Speakers: Pheroz Austin, AVP Eastern Canada, Indigenous Banking, TD Bank Group
Adam Hanuman, AVP Western Canada, Indigenous Banking, TD Bank Group

Moderator: Charles Gamm, HBA, Senior Vice President, Institutional Mortgage Capital

Importance of Emotional Intelligence in Governance and Leadership
[Room 520 CF, Level 5]

Every member on a committee overseeing trust investments, regardless of their role has the power and responsibility to shape the
committee’s culture and performance. Emotional intelligence, al so known as the emotional quotient (EQ), plays a critical role in this.
This session will share how behaviours, attitudes and emotions influence the tone of the committee, and how improving EQ can foster
healthier dynamics, better decision-making and more effective governance.

Speaker: Peter Muldowney, Head of Institutional and Multi-Asset Strategy, Conner, Clark & Lunn Financial Group

Moderator: Mimi Majumder, Msc, MBA. CFA, CAIA, Principal, Client Relationship & Development Manager, Foyston, Gordon & Payne Inc.

Generating Wellness, Growing Healthier Human Capital
[Room 524, Level 5]

Many of us bring our home experiences into our workplaces, often without realizing it, even though many of the solutions to becoming a healthier organization already live within the professionals themselves. Recognizing this can be challenging. In this session, participants will be guided to build greater self -awareness by exploring some of the difficult issues that can show up in the workplace, including impulsiveness, misdirection, and other habits that affect how we work together. We will also explore how family and work life can be blended in healthier ways to create better balance by committing to a more proactive and intentional path forward.   

Participants will be invited to reflect on their strengths as Native people, including the culture, resilience, and philosophies that shape who we are alongside our professional experiences. These influences can sometimes lead to humorous moments when behaviours become visible through shared reflection. The session will also address how to stay out of unhealthy workplace practices such as gossip, while encouraging connection through interactive and playful activities that bring laughter into the space. Even in demanding and stressful work environments, this workshop reminds us that there is room for balance, joy, and shared humanity.  

Speaker: Konwatsitsawi M. Meloche, Hon. Dr., Director, V.I.S.T.A. Seminars 

Moderator: Janice Gladue, Chief Operating Officer, TIPI Group of Companies 

Forecasting the Future: Data-Driven Approaches to Strategic Decisions
[Room 525, Level 5]

This presentation explores data-driven fund allocation models for a 10-year horizon, focusing on how demographics, community or
organizational priorities, and funding limitations shape strategic investment and spending decisions. It highlights the use of analytics and
forecasting to anticipate future needs, balance equity with efficiency, and optimize limited resources. Participants will gain insights into
applying evidence-based approaches to develop transparent, adaptable funding frameworks that align with long-term goals and
stakeholder expectations.

Speakers: Alexandra Cropp, Director, Dable Advisory & Consulting Services
Jeffrey Morahan, EMBA, Chief Operating Officer, Dable Group
Nick Mancuso, Senior Consultant, Dable Advisory & Consulting Services

Moderator: Tasha Altman, Chief Executive Officer, Many Nations Financial Services Ltd.

Career Building: AFOA Canada Certified Programs
[Room 522, Level 5]

Join this session to learn about opportunities to take your career to the next level. AFOA Canada’s four designations offer the critical skills
and competencies to build successful Indigenous Governments and Organizations. Developed by and for Indigenous people, certifications
in Management (CAPA), Finance (CAFM), Governance (CIL) and Human Resources Management (CIRHP) are designed to certify senior
administrators, senior finance staff, elected leaders, board members and aspiring administrators working in Indigenous communities and
organizations.

Speaker: Pamela Ouart-McNabb, PhD, Vice President, Education and Training, AFOA Canada

Supports for Default Prevention and Management Plans
[Room 523, Level 5]

AFOA Canada received input on the supports that may still be needed following the repeal of the Default Prevention and Management
Policy. This engagement was to better understand the causes of funding agreement default and the barriers to financial and governance
stability. The intent was to determine what capacity-building measures could better support First Nation communities facing these types
of governance and financial challenges. The report has been completed and the findings and recommendations will be shared with
participants.

Speaker: Kevin Clement, Owner, Clement Consulting

The opening plenary session begins at 8:20 am in Room 517 CD, Level 5 on Wednesday, February 11, 2025 with an Entry Procession and recognition of sponsors.

Download the conference mobile app to your smartphone or tablet today! Use the QR code posted on the back of your name badge, to download the Conference app, through Pheedloop.

Sponsored by:

Join Elder Elder Sedalia Fazio and Elder David McPherson, for the Sunrise Ceremony at 7:00 a.m. on Wednesday, February 11 and Thursday, February 12, 2026. The Sunrise Ceremony will be held in Room 521 C, Level 5.

Please visit the AFOA Canada Trading Post – Exhibitors and Artisans/Vendors in Room 517 AB, Level 5. Refer to your program or the Mobile App for the schedule and list of Exhibitors and Vendors

Tradeshow sponsored by:

Please join us each morning on Wednesday, February 11 and Thursday, February 12, 2026 for breakfast in the Tradeshow located in Room 517 AB, Level 5. Breakfast takes place from 7:30 to 8:29 a.m.

Wednesday, February 11, 2026 – Sponsored by:

Thursday, February 12, 2026 – Sponsored by:

Please Visit the Xerox Technology Café Located in the exhibit area in Room 517 AB, Level 5. Xerox Canada representatives are available to discuss technology and solutions for you and your community or organization.

Sponsored by: Xerox Canada

The workshops are divided into five series: Leadership and Governance – Featuring success stories and trends in governance; Management, Finance and IT – Best practices in management, finance and information technology; Business Development – Featuring success stories and trends In community business development and entrepreneurship; Wealth Creation – Featuring trends and best practices in creating community wealth; and Human Capital – Creating healthy work environments that reflect Indigenous culture. Please See Program For Details.

Share your National Conference experiences using #AFOA2026 on social media sites.

Please identify yourself to your server if you require an alternative option.

Wednesday, February 11 from 4:30 To 5:45 PM.
The Annual General Meeting for AFOA Canada members will be held in Room 524, Level 5. This meeting is for members in good standing.

Thursday, February 12, 2026

President’s Reception at 5:30 pm in Location 517A, Level 5
Reception sponsored by TD Bank

GALA begins at 6:30 p.m.

The National Conference banquet, awards presentation and CAFM/ CAPA/CIL/CIHRP/CEIL Convocation is an
evening of celebration. A live band will perform. This evening of celebration will be held in Room 517 CD, Level 5. 

Presenting Banquet Sponsor: First Nations Financial Management Board

Community Award Sponsor: MNP

Convocation Sponsor: CPA Canada

Copies of presentations will be made available in PDF format on the conference website following the Conference.

Did we meet your expectations? Did the Conference program and sessions address the issues that are important to you and meet your needs? AFOA Canada would like to continue to enhance the National Conference program so it meets the capacity development needs of all Indigenous organizations, communities and individuals.

Please help us to do so by completing the conference evaluation within the conference app