Day One: Tuesday, May 28, 2024
10:30 EDT
15 min
Welcome and Opening Remarks from the Chair
10:45 EDT
60 min
Strengthening Governance: A Comprehensive Examination of Internal Controls for Indigenous Governments
Tunde Ogunje, Lead Consultant, EPS Management Consulting Inc.
- Implement robust internal control mechanisms to establish a framework for governance
- Foster transparent communication channels within Indigenous governments to facilitate informed decision-making
- Conduct regular internal audits to identify areas of improvement and address weaknesses
- Develop and enhance the skill sets of internal teams to proactively manage and mitigate risks
- Innovate governance processes by incorporating technology and efficient systems
11:45 EDT
60 min
Navigating Infrastructure Development and Financial Management in Indigenous Governance
Stephen Mason, Chairman & CEO, Reconciliation Energy Transition Inc. (RETI)
- Facilitate comprehensive strategic planning sessions to align infrastructure development with long-term governance goals
- Optimize budget allocations by prioritizing key infrastructure projects based on critical needs and potential impact
- Foster collaborative partnerships with external stakeholders for funding and expertise in infrastructure development
- Implement robust monitoring mechanisms to oversee the timely and cost-effective implementation of infrastructure projects
- Diversify revenue streams by exploring innovative financial models and investment opportunities
12:45 EDT
45 minBreak
13:30 EDT
60 min
Advancing Financial Management and Reporting in Indigenous Communities
- Streamline financial workflows by implementing efficient accounting and reporting systems
- Enhance financial reporting accuracy through regular audits and reconciliation procedures
- Empower community members with financial literacy programs to foster a better understanding of budgeting and financial management
- Implement robust risk management strategies to identify and mitigate financial risks
- Enforce accountability through regular internal and external audits, promoting transparency in financial management practices
14:30 EDT
60 min
The Power of Partnership - Partnering Up for Financial Success
- Forge Strategic Alliances
- Drive Collaborative Innovation
- Optimize Synergies
15:30 EDT
60 min
Financial Management: Building Financial Strength
Syrena Courtorielle, Senior Manager, Indigenous Markets, Commercial Banking, CIBC
- Develop robust budgeting strategies to fortify financial reserves
- Implement proactive risk management measures to safeguard assets and investments
- Foster strategic partnerships to diversify revenue streams and enhance financial stability
16:30 EDT
End of Day One
Day Two: Wednesday, May 29, 2024
10:30 EDT
min
Welcome and Opening Remarks from the Chair
10:30 EDT
60 min
Council and Administration – Wise Practices
- Develop a policy framework to enhance Chief & Council and Administration relations
- Understand and appreciate each function’s respective role and responsibilities
- Understand the reasoning behind each stage of policy development
- Apply the framework to a case study
11:30 EDT
60 min
Empowering Indigenous Managers: Strategies for Effective Budgeting and Implementation in First Nations Governance
June Amar Gesta, Chief Financial Officer, Rainy River First Nations
- Encourage dialogue and cooperation among Indigenous managers to enhance budgeting effectiveness.
- Offer specialized workshops and resources to equip Indigenous managers with essential budgeting skills.
- Empower Indigenous managers with decision-making authority to implement budgeting strategies aligned with First Nations governance objectives.
12:30 EDT
45 minBreak
13:15 EDT
60 min
Access to Capital: Utilizing Alternative Investing Models to Create Community Wealth
- Understanding alternative investing in Canada today
- Creating the community investment model that supports community well being
- Leveraging asset allocation models to access other forms of financing
- Developing long term strategies for community wealth
14:15 EDT
60 min
Navigating the Ever-Changing Financial Markets for First Nations
Dayton Janz, First Nations Reconciliation Advocate & Financial Planner, Tetlit Gwich'In
- Next steps after surplus/settlement or cash flow increase
- Common investment mistakes for First Nations
- How to read my Nations investment statement – understanding the fees, rates of return and investments currently held
- Is my Financial Planner properly serving my Nation, and which questions to ask them before hiring
- Why your trust administrator should be licensed
15:15 EDT
45 min
Indigenous Agriculture-Financial Opportunities
Nicholas Boucher, Director, Relation Manager, Indigenous Financing, Farm Credit Canada
- Who is FCC?
- Explain what FCC is doing in the Indigenous Financing space.
- Explain what the FCC can finance.
- Talk about opportunities for FCC to partner with Indigenous Communities.
- FCC Programs.
16:15 EDT
Closing Remarks from the Chair
Indigenous Governance Workshop: Monday, May 27, 2024
13:00 EDT
180 min
Makaita Zvizwayi Nemhara, Financial Controller, Whitefish Lake First Nation
Zishan Nasir, Human Resources Director, Whitefish Lake First Nation
Gain invaluable insights and expertise in navigating the complex landscape of financial management within Indigenous governance structures. Hear from leading experts who will be sharing practical strategies for establishing robust internal controls. This workshop serves as a platform for fostering a deeper understanding of compliance challenges specific to Indigenous communities, offering a tailored solution that prioritizes cultural sensitivity and community empowerment. Enhance your skills in building trust, transparency, and financial resilience, ultimately contributing to the sustainable development and long-term success of your organization. Don’t miss this chance to connect with like-minded peers, exchange ideas, and leave equipped with the knowledge needed to navigate the intricacies of internal controls within Indigenous communities.
During this workshop, participants will:
- Cultivate financial resilience and explore best practices for internal controls in Indigenous governance
- Navigate compliance challenges and explore strategies for developing an effective internal controls framework
- Build trust and transparency
- Explore innovative solutions to strengthen Indigenous governance
By the end of this workshop, participants will emerge with a comprehensive understanding of tailored strategies for establishing and strengthening internal controls within their unique governance frameworks. Armed with practical insights gained from interactive sessions and real-world case studies, attendees will be equipped to navigate the intricacies of financial management with cultural sensitivity.