Speakers | Pathways to Self Determination Conference & Trade Show

Our Event Speakers

We have gathered industry leaders, Indigenous entrepreneurs, and experts in economic reconciliation to share their insights, experiences, and strategies for building strong, inclusive partnerships. Our speakers bring real-world knowledge and actionable solutions to drive meaningful change in Indigenous business and economic development.

Mark Chipman

Mark Chipman is the Executive Chairman of True North Sports & Entertainment and Winnipeg Jets Hockey Club. He serves as the Governor of the Winnipeg Jets on the NHL's Board of Governors and Exeuctive Committee and is the member of the Selection Committee of the Hockey Hall of Fame. Mark has led the establishment of the True North Young Foundation, Gonzaga Middle School. the Downtown Community Safety Partnership and N'Dinawemak a community shelter resource.

Executive Chairman & Governor

Winnipeg Jets Hockey Club

Chief Ted Williams

Chippewas of Rama First Nation

Ted is a First Nation Chief and leader with over 40 years of sales experience. He excelled in the automotive and real estate industries, achieving his goal of building a dream home on a golf course. Ted became a golf professional and entrepreneur, shining in softball and hockey. He also built a $200 million enterprise, generating $500 million yearly as Vice President of HR and Corporate Giving for 5 years.

Darion Ducharme

Founder & CEO

Darion Ducharme is the founder of Teqare, a 100% Indigenous-owned organization dedicated to empowering communities through cyber safety, financial literacy, and digital education. As a proud Indigenous entrepreneur, Darion has made it his mission to bridge the digital divide, ensuring that Indigenous youth, elders, and communities have access to technology training, scam prevention workshops, and financial excellence programs.

Teqare

Tannis and Rayel Smoke

CEO/Owners

Niña Waṡte Events was founded by Dakota Ojibway sisters Tannis and Rayel Smoke, who share a passion for bringing people together through play. As entrepreneurs, they have built a unique business specializing in giant games for events, blending tradition, innovation, and community engagement. Their vision is to create meaningful, interactive experiences at schools, corporate events, and community gatherings.

Nina Waste Events

Interested in Becoming an Event Speaker?

Are you an entrepreneur or an accomplished professional with a story to inspire others? We’re looking for dynamic speakers for the Pathways to Self Determination Conference and Trade Show. Whether you’re an experienced speaker or simply passionate about sharing your journey, we’d love to hear from you!

Contact info@pathwayscon.com with your background and ideas.

Jim Caldwell

President

Jim Caldwell is an experienced retail leader with over 40 years in the industry. He joined The North West Company in 2021 as President, Canadian Retail. Throughout his career, Jim has held senior roles at Walmart, Lowes, The Brick, and OK Tire. He brings expertise in operations, merchandising, distribution, sales, and marketing. Jim is passionate about helping people succeed and is committed to adapting to customer needs to improve their lives. Originally from Winnipeg, he now enjoys living there with his wife, Bridgette.

The NorthWest Company

Michelle Cameron

CEO/Owner

Michelle Cameron, a Peguis First Nation member and mother of five, owns Dreamcatcher Promotions and Indigenous Nations Apparel Company (INAC), the largest Indigenous-owned promotions company in Canada. INAC operates stores in Manitoba and Saskatchewan, including the first Indigenous-owned store in CF Polo Park. Michelle serves on various boards, including Manitoba Liquor & Lotteries and the Indigenous Chamber of Commerce, and mentors aspiring entrepreneurs through the SEE Enclave program.

Dreamcatcher Promotions & Indigenous Nations Apparel Company (INAC)

Jennefer Nepinak

VP Strategic Partnerships & Reconciliation

Jennefer is Anishinaabe from Treaty 4 territory and a citizen of the Minegozhuube Anishinaabe Nation (Pine Creek First Nation). Fluent in Ojibwe and a strong and passionate leader firmly rooted in the Indigenous community, Jennefer's approach works to ensure that Indigenous ways of knowing and being are recognized and incorporated in all that she does. Jennefer is an experienced lawyer and advisor and has over 25 years of political, government, and business experience and is skilled at initiating collaborative processes that involve numerous cross-sector partners and stakeholders.

TIPI Group of Companies

Brett Hargreaves

Senior Category Manager - General Merchandise

Brett Hargreaves is a retail industry professional with 30+ years of experience in sales, operations, regional management, procurement, and marketing. He has held key roles at Bata Shoes, Athletes World, Nike Shops, Sportmart, and the North West Company. His expertise in procurement, buying, and frontline operations provides a unique retail perspective. Originally from Selkirk, Manitoba, Brett now resides in East St. Paul with his wife and two sons.

The NorthWest Company

Janice Gladue

Chief Operating Officer

Janice L. Gladue is Cree from Sweetgrass First Nation in Treaty 6 Territory, Saskatchewan and has worked in the insurance industry for over a decade. Janice dedicated many years working with First Nations organizations and communities in the areas of strategy development, marketing and communications, economic development and finance. She specialized in supporting Indigenous Communities and corporate entities in the areas of risk management and insurance.

TIPI Group of Companies

Ryan Merasty

President & Founder

Ryan Merasty is the founder and president of Mamisitotamowin Connections, fostering ethical relationships between businesses and Indigenous communities. A member of Keeseekoowenin First Nation, he served as an RCMP Sergeant before transitioning to a new career, helping build FWS’s Indigenous Relations program. A hunter, motorcycle enthusiast, and proud father of three, Ryan has also dedicated over 25 years to coaching hockey at all levels.