Sessions & Workshops

Frank O’Dea’s rags to riches story is an inspiring triumph over adversity. From living on the street and panhandling for nickels and dimes, O’Dea transformed himself into one of Canada's most successful and celebrated entrepreneurs, founding such businesses as The Second Cup and Proshred Security. Having risen from the back alley to the boardroom, Frank O’Dea has given back to the community as a founder or partner in such non-profit organizations as Street Kids International, the Canadian Landmine Foundation and War Child (Canada). Discover the “Courage to Hope” that has guided Frank O’Dea’s personal success story and be inspired by new approaches to overcoming life’s challenges.

Mary Simon’s leadership skills have been polished over a career as diverse as the geography and people of Canada’s north. Born in Kangirsualuujuaq (George River) in Nunavik (northern Quebec), Ms. Simon has devoted her life’s work to gaining further recognition of Aboriginal rights and to promoting the study of Northern affairs. After her early work as a CBC Northern Service producer she quickly began to make news of a different kind, working in executive roles at Makivik Corporation, serving as Chancellor of Trent University, and being appointed the first Canadian Ambassador for Circumpolar Affairs. Among her many accomplishments, Ms. Simon helped negotiate the Labrador Inuit Land Claims Agreement and the formation of the 8-country Arctic Council, which she chaired. A member of the Order of Canada and a recipient of the National Aboriginal Achievement Award, Ms. Simon is a respected international advisor on important issues such as the environment, human rights, scientific research and development and peace. A Governance Champion of the Aboriginal Human Resource Council, Ms. Simon has seen firsthand how the inclusion of Inuit people in Canada’s economy can breathe new life into communities. Join Mary Simon, President of Inuit Tapiriit Kanatami, as she shares her insights into Inuit culture and inspires us to tap into the growing Inuit workforce.

You know you need to attract Aboriginal talent, but where is the plan? This workshop will guide managers through the fundamentals of constructing a sustainable Aboriginal employment strategy. Discover a dynamic template for recruitment planning and learn how to develop clear strategies that work for your company, your industry, your region and your workforce. You will leave with a toolkit of checklists, tip sheets and the confidence to follow our step-by-step approach to creating a customized and sustainable Aboriginal employment strategy.