Roots Of Change

Story Studio Network

Roots of Change:  Indigenous Innovation Reshaping Industry and Reconciliation is a series that spotlights how Indigenous leaders, entrepreneurs and change makers are transforming Canada’s high tech sector.  These aren’t stories about barriers.  They are stories about breakthroughs.  Through in-depth conversations with powerhouse guests, we explore how traditional knowledge and community values are driving meaningful innovation.  From AI to aerospace, procurement to other high tech sectors, these stories show that inclusive, future forward industries are taking root.  And that investing in Indigenous led innovation is not just a moral imperative, but also a strategic one.  The future of tech is diverse, community driven and rooted in reconciliation.  This series doesn’t dwell on barriers, it identifies them.  And then it moves past that to talk about what works, what hasn’t, and what other solutions may be out there.  What partnerships and pathways exist, and what ones are emerging.   Whether you're a policymaker, investor, educator, or ally, Roots of Change offers a blueprint for building sustainable, inclusive systems that recognize Indigenous leadership as central to Canada’s innovation ecosystem. These aren’t just conversations — they’re calls to reimagine who leads, how we build, and what the future can look like when it’s rooted in equity and respect. For more information on the force behind Roots of Change, visit Niipaawi Strategies at www.niipaawi.ca Roots of Change:  Indigenous Innovation Reshaping Industry and Reconciliation is produced by Story Studio Network.  www.storystudionetwork.com

Season 1

  1. EPISODE 1

    Creating Space for Indigenous Innovation in Tech

    Welcome to Roots of Change:  Indigenous Innovation Reshaping Industry and Reconciliation.  This series is aimed at moving beyond identifying challenges for Indigenous businesses and entrepreneurs in the high tech sector, and towards highlighting real solutions and opportunities.  In our first episode, moderator Dave Trafford sets the stage for a conversation that emphasizes the importance of representation, safe spaces and how Indigenous led innovation is reshaping industries and forging new models of success. Our guests for this conversation are Josh Nilson of Maskwa Investments, Zaffia Laplante, CEO of Hempergy, Jenn Harper, founder of Cheekbone Beauty, and Katrian Reimer, 3rd year undergraduate engineering student at Queens University.   Key Takeaways:   Including Indigenous voices in tech isn’t just the right thing to do, it’s a strategic imperative for Canada’s economy.  While Indigenous talent is currently underrepresented, the potential is vast, especially as tech becomes the new “no collar” field. Education and mentorship matter.  Education closes the employment gap between Indigenous and non-Indigenous populations.  But success also comes through mentorship and re-defining tech careers as accessible through alternative pathways. Indigenous entrepreneurs bring unique perspectives and community centred values to innovation.  As Jen Harper says, you can do good and you can do business.  These things can co-exist, creating lasting economic and cultural impacts.  For more information, visit Niipaawi Strategies online: www.Niipaawi.ca

    21 min

  2. EPISODE 2

    Indigenous Knowledge is Essential to Innovation

    In this episode, the conversation with our guests on creating space for Indigenous innovation in tech continues.  Our guests dive deeper into the systemic barriers as well as the growing momentum around Indigenous innovation.  From reshaping STEM education and funding access to blending ancestral knowledge with cutting edge science, this episode spotlights what it truly means to build inclusive, future forward industries.  Our moderator Dave Trafford and our guests, Josh Nilson of Maskwa Investments, Zaffia Laplante, CEO of Hempergy, Jenn Harper, founder of Cheekbone Beauty, and Katrina Reimer, 3rd year undergraduate engineering student at Queens University bring incredible insights into this topic. And they show us that investing in Indigenous led businesses and ideas creates a powerful impact for communities as well as Canada’s economic and environmental future.   Key Takeaways:    Access to early STEM education is vital.  Limited science resources in Indigenous communities impedes youth entry into STEM.  Early investment is key to closing that gap.Indigenous entrepreneurs face persistent challenges accessing funding and skilled labour.  These are major hurdles, especially in rural and remote areas.  Traditional knowledge drives modern innovation.  Indigenous ecological wisdom is increasingly being validated by science, offering sustainable solutions in biotech, climate tech and other industries and spaces.  For more information, visit Niipaawi Strategies online: www.Niipaawi.ca

    37 min

  3. EPISODE 3

    Taking Flight: Creating Space for Indigenous Youth in Aviation and Aerospace

    In this episode, we explore how Indigenous led aviation and advanced manufacturing initiatives are helping to fill critical talent gaps in Canada’s aerospace sector.  Moderator Erin Trafford is our guide in a lively and heartfelt conversation with guests Jo-Anne Tabobandung, Dean of Aviation at First Nations Technical Institute, Thawennontie Thomas, co-founder and President at LaFlesche, and Leo Hurtubise, co-founder and VP Business Development at LaFlesche.  Together, they dive into how early exposure, culturally relevant training and strong community partnerships are re-shaping opportunities for Indigenous youth.  As well as changing the face of high tech industries across the country.   Key Takeaways: Early exposure can spark lifelong careers.  From daycare visits to high school co-op programs, giving indigenous youth early access to aviation and manufacturing environments is key to expanding their sense of what’s possible. Culturally relevant programs drive inclusion.  Industry and communities must work together.  Companies like LaFleche are building bridges between Indigenous communities and sectors like aerospace and defence, proving that inclusive workforce development is essential.   For more information, visit Niipaawi Strategies online: www.Niipaawi.ca

    22 min

  4. EPISODE 4

    Fostering an Ecosystem of Innovation in Aerospace and Aviation

    This episode continues the conversation with Indigenous leaders in the aviation and manufacturing sector, who are embedding traditional values into cutting edge industries.  Moderator Erin Trafford speaks with guests Jo-Anne Tabobandung, Dean of Aviation at First Nations Technical Institute, Thawennontie Thomas, co-founder and President at LaFlesche, and Leo Hurtubise, co-founder and VP Business Development at LaFlesche.  They reflect on the cultural, educational and economic infrastructure needed to grow a thriving Indigenous workforce. One that is rooted in community and built for generations to come.   Key Takeaways:   Cultural values drive business strategy.  Leo Hurtubise shares how embracing Anishinaabe values has helped LaFlesche grow in harmony with community needs and shift focus from profit to long term sustainability and collective benefit. Aviation as a connector.  Jo-Anne Tabobandung explains how training Indigenous pilots has ripple effects far beyond individual careers.  It empowers families, nations and future generations, especially in remote northern communities.  Workforce is key.   Thawennontie Thomas highlights the importance of local economic commissions and partnerships that subsidize training and job placements, making career transitions and up-skilling accessible for Indigenous workers.   For more information, visit Niipaawi Strategies online: www.Niipaawi.ca

    22 min

  5. EPISODE 5

    Indigenous Intelligence. The Future of AI and Leading with Culture, Ethics and Innovation

    How are Indigenous perspectives part of the rapidly growing artificial intelligence space, as well as other emerging technologies?  In this episode of Roots of Change:  Indigenous Innovation Reshaping Industry and Reconciliation, moderator Dave Trafford is joined by expert guests  Lynnsey Chartrand, Head of Indigenous Initiatives at Mila, Brian Ritchie, Founder of Kama.ai and Jordy Thibert, Director of Indigenous Affairs at I.T Partners Inc.                 Together, they discuss how Indigenous knowledge, ethics and youth leadership are not just essential to AI development, they are critical to ensuring equitable digital futures.  They also discuss the role of AI in economic development, cultural preservation and reconciliation.  From developing ethical AI models rooted in the Seven Grandfather teachings to creating inclusive career pathways for Indigenous youth, these leaders are setting a powerful foundation for what’s next.   Key Takeaways:  Radical inclusion is urgent.  Lindsay Chartrand highlights that if Indigenous communities don’t define their role in the AI ecosystem, others will.  And it’s currently trained on mainstream data sets that often exclude Indigenous languages, world view and knowledge systems.  There is no single Indigenous perspective.  And efforts to create one using AI risks whitewashing the diversity of Nations and teachings.  Youth are the future leaders of AI.  Jordy Thibert  emphasizes the importance of demystifying AI for indigenous youth and ensuring they are equipped to lead ethically and relationally in a digital world.   For more information, visit Niipaawi Strategies online: www.Niipaawi.ca

    25 min

  6. EPISODE 6

    The Role of AI in Indigenous Innovation and Culture

    This episode of Roots of Change:  Indigenous Innovation Reshaping Industry and Reconciliation is a continuation of the conversation from episode 5, delving into the complexities of integrating AI with Indigenous cultures.  Our guests Lynnsey Chartrand, Head of Indigenous Initiatives at Mila, Brian Ritchie, Founder of Kama.ai and Jordy Thibert, Director of Indigenous Affairs at I.T Partners Inc., emphasise the importance of preserving cultural values while navigating tech advances, particularly AI.  There are both opportunities and challenges for Indigenous communities when it comes to AI.  This episode explores the potential for AI to preserve and share Indigenous knowledge.  As well as the delicate balance required around data sovereignty and the leadership role that Indigenous people can play in the shaping of AI’s future.   Key Takeaways: There are challenges and opportunities for growth.  Challenges like limited infrastructure and skills training.  But there is a growing push to support grassroots initiatives and provide the  necessary resources to help these projects thrive in the AI space. AI can help bridge economic gaps for Indigenous businesses by improving operational efficiency and scalability.  Indigenous communities have a unique opportunity to shape AI development from the grown up, contributing Indigenous knowledge systems and perspectives to create more inclusive and responsible technologies.   For more information, visit Niipaawi Strategies online: www.Niipaawi.ca

    28 min

  7. EPISODE 7

    Indigenous Businesses Navigating Procurement

    There are complexities around Indigenous businesses and procurement.  In this episode of Roots of Change:  Indigenous Innovation Reshaping Industry and Reconciliation, moderator Dave Trafford and guests  Tabatha Bull, CEO of the Canadian Council for Indigenous Business, Tanya Pasha, President and CEO of Air Creebec, and Jacob Taylor, PHD, Executive Director of the National Indigenous Economic Prosperity Council,  delve into those complexities.  Their discussion highlights the challenges and opportunities facing Indigenous owned businesses as they navigate government contracts, with a focus on the 5% Indigenous procurement target.  As well, they talk about the biases Indigenous businesses face, the importance of certification and the growing need for inclusivity and clear communication in the procurement process.   Key Takeaways:There is a need for policies that build capacity within Indigenous businesses and communities without creating additional barriers.  That ensures that they have the skills and support to thrive in government procurement systems.  Indigenous businesses often face biases, with some organizations not being perceived as “top tier”.  Overcoming these misconceptions requires strong partnerships and consistent performance.  Government and corporate procurement:  while the 5% procurement target for Indigenous businesses is a step forward, government processes still lag behind the private sector, requiring future improvements and better measurement.   For more information, visit Niipaawi Strategies online: www.Niipaawi.ca

    25 min

  8. EPISODE 8

    Building Capacity and Opportunity for Indigenous Businesses in Procurement

    In this final episode of the series, we dive deep into the intersection of Indigenous business and government procurement.  Moderator Dave Trafford and guests Tabatha Bull, CEO of the Canadian Council for Indigenous Business, Tanya Pasha, President and CEO of Air Creebec, and Jacob Taylor, PHD, Executive Director of the National Indigenous Economic Prosperity Council, talk about building capacity, creating equitable partnerships and the evolving role of Indigenous entrepreneurship.  They also explore how mentorship and social capital are essential to advancing Indigenous innovation and entrepreneurship, especially in the procurement sector.   Key Takeaways: The next generation will be the driving force behind transforming the procurement landscape.  Mentorship and visible role models are crucial in empowering young people to lead change.  Indigenous procurement should be treated distinctly from general supplier diversity initiatives due to his unique connection to constitutional rights and reconciliation.  It’s about building capacity within Indigenous communities.  Creating opportunities for high level executive roles and decision making in Indigenous businesses is essential.  It’s not just about employment, it’s about fostering leadership that embodies Indigenous values and sustainability.   For more information, visit Niipaawi Strategies online: www.Niipaawi.ca

    23 min

  9. SEASON 1 TRAILER

    Welcome to Roots of Change

    Roots of Change:  Indigenous Innovation Reshaping Industry and Reconciliation is a series that spotlights how Indigenous leaders, entrepreneurs and change makers are transforming Canada’s high tech sector.  These aren’t stories about barriers.  They are stories about breakthroughs.  Through in-depth conversations with powerhouse guests, we explore how traditional knowledge and community values are driving meaningful innovation.  From AI to aerospace, procurement to other high tech sectors, these stories show that inclusive, future forward industries are taking root.  And that investing in Indigenous led innovation is not just a moral imperative, but also a strategic one.  The future of tech is diverse, community driven and rooted in reconciliation.   This series doesn’t dwell on barriers, it identifies them.  And then it moves past that to talk about what works, what hasn’t, and what other solutions may be out there.  What partnerships and pathways exist, and what ones are emerging.   Whether you're a policymaker, investor, educator, or ally, Roots of Change offers a blueprint for building sustainable, inclusive systems that recognize Indigenous leadership as central to Canada’s innovation ecosystem. These aren’t just conversations — they’re calls to reimagine who leads, how we build, and what the future can look like when it’s rooted in equity and respect. For more information on the force behind Roots of Change, visit Niipaawi Strategies at www.niipaawi.ca Roots of Change:  Indigenous Innovation Reshaping Industry and Reconciliation is produced by Story Studio Network.  www.storystudionetwork.com

    3 min

Trailer

About

Roots of Change:  Indigenous Innovation Reshaping Industry and Reconciliation is a series that spotlights how Indigenous leaders, entrepreneurs and change makers are transforming Canada’s high tech sector.  These aren’t stories about barriers.  They are stories about breakthroughs.  Through in-depth conversations with powerhouse guests, we explore how traditional knowledge and community values are driving meaningful innovation.  From AI to aerospace, procurement to other high tech sectors, these stories show that inclusive, future forward industries are taking root.  And that investing in Indigenous led innovation is not just a moral imperative, but also a strategic one.  The future of tech is diverse, community driven and rooted in reconciliation.  This series doesn’t dwell on barriers, it identifies them.  And then it moves past that to talk about what works, what hasn’t, and what other solutions may be out there.  What partnerships and pathways exist, and what ones are emerging.   Whether you're a policymaker, investor, educator, or ally, Roots of Change offers a blueprint for building sustainable, inclusive systems that recognize Indigenous leadership as central to Canada’s innovation ecosystem. These aren’t just conversations — they’re calls to reimagine who leads, how we build, and what the future can look like when it’s rooted in equity and respect. For more information on the force behind Roots of Change, visit Niipaawi Strategies at www.niipaawi.ca Roots of Change:  Indigenous Innovation Reshaping Industry and Reconciliation is produced by Story Studio Network.  www.storystudionetwork.com

Information

  • Creator
    Story Studio Network
  • Episodes
    9
  • Seasons
    1
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Story Studio Network
  • Show Website
    Roots Of Change