B.C. companies gather in Kamloops to celebrate First Nations economic development

Later in the evening, a discussion panel was held, with guest speakers from across the province, including

– Chief Norman Calliou – Kelly Lake First Nation, Kelly Lake, AB

– Don Gossoo – GM, Lower Nicola Indian Band Development Corp., Merritt, BC

– Joshua Gottfriedsen – CEO, Sc.wén̓wen: The Business Group of Tk̓emlúps te Secwépemc, Kamloops, BC

All three touched on economic development across First Nations communities, economic prosperity, capacity growth, and partnership development.

“This evening is really all about solidifying the relationships that we’ve been working on over the last couple of months, ensuring that the partners that are working on major capital infrastructure within the region,” stated Dennis Marsden, who is the CEO of Shxw Kwimel Cha, based out of Chilliwack. “We’re making sure that we’re connecting with the appropriate partners, those that truly believe in the value of indigenous partnership and are looking to move forward with reconciliation.”

The event was an opportunity for companies to learn more about the connections that can be built and further strengthen relations.

“Just some insights on how businesses can better work with First Nations groups and indigenous communities,” said Nelson Tonn, who serves as Vice President, Sales and Mine Service for Fountain Tire. “Being able to bridge that gap between business communities and our customers.”

A strong example of the economic development locally is the new Chief Louis Crossing – a shopping complex undertaken by Scwén̓wen Economic Development Corporation, the business development arm of Tk̓emlúps te Secwépemc.

“I used to say this analogy: we’re like mice scurrying on the floor, picking up crumbs, while proponents and government had had the big feast at the table and we’re sitting there trying to get what we could,” stated Joshua Gottfriedsen, who played a major part as the CEO of Scwén̓wen. “But we all come together, whittled ourselves a chair, and now we sit at the table, and we’re sharing this feast for all the economic opportunities in our area.”

The Reach Group hopes last night’s event is the start of an annual gathering between clients and First Nations bands.

by Anthony Corea

B.C. companies gather in Kamloops to celebrate First Nations economic development

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