Team

Emily has 10 years of experience working for Indigenous Nations. She specializes in navigating provincial environmental assessments and federal impact assessments, focusing on opportunities to advance Indigenous rights. Her background is in climate change, geography, environmental ethics and political science. Emily has built consultation departments from the ground up, filtering project notices and navigating reviews in energy, climate, mining, land development and transportation. She has participated in countless proponent meetings, working to hold proponents to the highest standards of the Duty to Consult and Accommodate and advancing implementation of UNDRIP, including Free, Prior, and Informed Consent.

Natalya Garrod is a Registered Professional Planner with a specialty in natural heritage planning and protection. She completed her Master of Science in Rural Planning and Development and her Bachelor of Arts in Environmental Governance and Studio Art with the University of Guelph. Her Masters thesis focused on exploring collaboration amongst First Nations, municipalities and Conservation Authorities for source water protection planning. Natalya has worked with several First Nations across Ontario and takes a community oriented/driven approach to consultation and accommodation.

Reggie George has been involved in blockchain development and cryptocurrency ventures for over a decade. In 2019 he founded Kadnim Financial Solutions, which aims to solve contemporary problems such as climate change using new technologies such as blockchain technology. Kadnim Financial Solutions has held advisory positions with multiple successful crypto start-ups and continues to provide a range of services to various entities in the industry. Reggie is a member of the Kettle and Stony Point First Nation and has an accomplished track record in start-ups related to blockchain and other emerging technologies.

Todd is a highly experienced Operations and Solutions Executive with the ability to lead diverse teams to success in a variety of industries, cutting-edge technologies and fast-paced environments. He has strong technical and business qualifications with a track record of more than 30 years of hands-on experience in strategic planning, business unit development, projects and product management and implementing system strategies. Todd is able to quickly analyze an organization’s critical business requirements, identify deficiencies and opportunities, and develop innovative, cost-effective solutions while enhancing competitiveness, increasing revenues and enhancing customer service.

Philip is a social entrepreneur specializing in organizational development with a broad range of leadership experience in international trade, hotel franchising, aquaculture, forestry, commercial real estate, and infrastructure. He holds a Master of Business Administration degree from Trinity Western University in Non-Profit and Charitable Organization Management. He is devoted to advancing First Nations’ economic reconciliation in Canada and dedicates his spare time on several First Nations economic and non-profit boards.

Rob is a driven sustainability professional committed to bridging cultures, empowering Indigenous communities, and fostering a sustainable future. With a Master of Science in Sustainability Management, I specialize in analyzing society-nature interactions, holistic climate change mitigation tools, and sustainable policy developments to advance environmental stewardship and the rights of Indigenous Peoples. Rob’s research interests focus on providing policymakers with tools and recommendations to weave Indigenous Knowledge into conservation management systems. Beyond academia, Rob finds solace in gardening, nurturing nature’s wonders, and exploring nature through hiking adventures.

Alaina is a member of the Kettle and Stony Point First Nation. She recently left her career in healthcare and received her advanced diploma in Business Administration, accounting specialization from Lambton College in Sarnia. This program has helped her develop valuable critical thinking and analytical skills. She joined Southwind Corporate Development as a part of the finance team and is now leading operations of Southwind’s subsidiary businesses. Alaina shares the goals and visions of Southwind and by extension Kettle and Stony Point First Nation. Her focused skills and abilities will lead the team to success.

Don has 30 years experience building agreements between First Nation governments and economic development corporations, project proponents and Crown agencies, together with extensive global experience with environmental assessments, socio-economics, traditional ecological knowledge, and enhancing community well-being. Don optimizes economic development and environmental protection for major projects, thereby supporting First Nation ownership and co-development. Areas of expertise include economic development & partnership structuring, business planning, and project impact assessment. Sectors include energy, nuclear, mining, and infrastructure development projects.

Sam is an Environmental Biologist with post graduate education in Environmental Management and Assessments, and the Ontario Master Naturalist Program (OMNP). Sam has working experience in both the municipal and non-profit sectors involving waste management, pollinator conservation, and Species at Risk. She is committed to lifelong learning, and passionate about protecting the natural environment, Indigenous rights, and combating climate change. Sam is excited to help advance innovative projects and ideas, and help communities benefit from existing and ongoing projects while ensuring environmental stewardship.