12/03/2025
I was honoured to be part of the Indigenous Skills Employment Apprenticeship and Development (ISEAD) Conference at the Kingbridge Conference Centre, King City, Ontario.
Led by ISEAD Director Valerie Vanderwyk and her team, the conference brought together leaders from across Canada in Building Trade Unions, Aviation and Aerospace, and Indigenous Communities. The focus was clear: Giving Back and Creating Opportunity—from bringing fresh water to communities worldwide, to supporting Indigenous youth and underrepresented groups into trade apprenticeship programs.
The highlight for me was our keynote speaker, Matthew Martin, who shared his journey into leadership and into leading Black Lives Matter New Brunswick. His story was both inspiring and thought‑provoking, reminding us of the courage it takes to lead with heart.
The conference offered a rich mix of activities: inspiring workshops, cultural awareness through traditional dance, music and art, and meaningful gatherings by the fire. The big event was the gala, where ISEAD recognized the contributions of their partners.
✨ Congratulations to the recipients of the 2025 ISEAD Awards:
ISET Partner Award – International Water, Sanitation and Hygiene Foundation (IWSH)
Legacy Award – Canadian Union of Skilled Workers (CUSW)
ISEAD Partnership Award – UA Canada
Indigenous Engagement Award – Ontario Masonry Training Centre (OMTC)
Diversity Award – Keepers of the Circle (KOTC)
NEW Award: Indigenous Youth Leadership Award – Juniper Kewayosh‑Deleary
I had the great opportunity to reconnect with colleagues from last year and meet new guests. It was a conference filled with resilience, inspiration, and the warmth of a true community of heart.
Looking forward to seeing how these conversations continue to shape pathways for equity, opportunity, and sustainable futures. 🌿
