National Chief Cindy Woodhouse Nepinak Opens the Forward Summit: Canada's Premier Meeting to Strengthen the Indigenous Economy

CALGARY, Alberta – Forward Summit is proud to announce that National Chief Cindy Woodhouse Nepinak will open this year’s conference, scheduled for May 14 and 15 at the Gray Eagle in Tsuut’ina Nation, Calgary. This outstanding event brings together an influential roster of Grand Chiefs, Chiefs, Métis leaders, community leaders and senior industry representatives, all coming together for discussions to advance economic partnerships and create opportunities for Indigenous communities to thrive.

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A pioneering leader of the Pinaymootang First Nation, Chief Cindy Woodhouse Nepinak is the youngest woman and mother to hold the position of national chief of the Assembly of First Nations (AFN). Her influential advocacy on First Nations priorities and direct engagement with senior government bodies – including the Senate and the Prime Minister’s Office – make her an important voice in national discussions. We are widely recognized for their committed leadership in promoting growth and sustainable development in indigenous territories and are honored to be at the inaugural Forward Summit | Hear Chief Cindy Woodhouse Nepinak’s experiences and insights at WEST 2024. For more details on her contributions and background, see Chief Cindy Woodhouse Nepinak’s biography.

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“National Chief Cindy Woodhouse Nepinak’s presence at the Forward Summit underscores the importance of unity and collective efforts in advancing economic reconciliation,” said Miki Reeder, President of the Forward Summit. “Her vision fits perfectly with the goals of our summit and makes her the ideal leader to kick off our discussions.”

Forward Summit | WEST 2024 promises an exciting program of panels, roundtables and exhibitions featuring prominent Indigenous leaders and allies. The main themes of this year’s program include:

Partnership development: Economic balancing and facilitating deal flow.
Environmental responsibility: Indigenous leadership in sustainable initiatives.
Indigenous youth: Educational advancement and employment opportunities.
Innovations in technology: Access to technology and its impact on indigenous communities.
Deep insights into the industry: focused roundtable discussions in the areas of energy, forestry, agriculture and more.

This year’s summit is expected to be sold out, but there is still a chance to join the discussions and hear from the transformational leaders at the forefront of change at this extraordinary opportunity.

Discover the Forward Summit:

About Forward Summit:

Forward Summit is a professional, Indigenous-led, two-day conference dedicated to fostering economic partnerships, uncovering opportunities for change and supporting national relationships between Canada’s industry leaders and Indigenous communities. By bringing together Indigenous and non-Indigenous leaders from all sectors, the Summit aims to catalyze long-term partnerships and collaborative efforts that pave the way for a successful shared future.

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With more than 250 Indigenous communities, Forward Summit is proud to be the meeting point that advances economic reconciliation through meaningful dialogue. Through extensive consultations with the Forward Summit Indigenous Leadership Council, comprised of established and emerging Indigenous leaders across the country, the topics covered at the Summit include the most pressing challenges and trends found across communities and industry. With expert-led panel discussions, dynamic roundtable discussions and exclusive networking opportunities, conference attendees will be offered an unparalleled opportunity to gain knowledge and work together toward a common goal: advancing economic reconciliation.