At just 25 years old, Chief Tréchelle Bunn is the first woman and youngest person ever elected Chief of Birdtail Sioux Dakota Nation, and one of the youngest serving Chiefs in Canada.

She graduated with distinction from the University of Manitoba with a Bachelor’s degree in Criminology and a minor in Indigenous Studies, and is currently pursuing a law degree at Robson Hall, the Faculty of Law at the University of Manitoba.

A dedicated advocate for Indigenous rights and youth empowerment, Chief Bunn has spoken on provincial, national, and international stages, including at the United Nations. She is the founder of the Reconciliation Run - Canada’s first National Day for Truth and Reconciliation half-marathon. A former university hockey player, she also established the first Indigenous student-athlete scholarship at the University of Manitoba.

Chief Bunn was also recently appointed to Hockey Canada’s inaugural Indigenous Advisory Circle, formed to guide Hockey Canada’s efforts to advance the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s Calls to Action for sport (#87–91).

Her leadership and advocacy have been recognized with numerous honours, including the Indspire First Nations Youth Award, the King Charles III Coronation Medal, the CBC Manitoba Future 40 Award, and the University of Manitoba Outstanding Young Alumni Award.

Michael Robertson is a trailblazer in Canadian architecture and a champion for community-driven design. Of Cree descent, he is the first Indigenous graduate of the University of Manitoba’s Master of Architecture program (with honours) and a 2024 recipient of the Distinguished Alumni Award for Community Service.

With over two decades of experience, Michael served as a partner and principal architect at Cibinel Architecture Ltd. in Winnipeg for over a decade. His portfolio spans major capital projects for institutions such as the Ma Mawi Wi Chi Itata Centre, University of Manitoba, and Winnipeg Art Gallery–Qaumajuq. He is widely recognized for his leadership in Indigenizing physical space and designing inclusive environments that address food insecurity, housing, and cultural representation.

Beyond architecture, Michael is a dedicated community leader. He has served as chair of the University of Manitoba’s Board of Governors and President’s Advisory Council, and as a member of the United Way of Winnipeg Board of Trustees and BUILD Inc. His work reflects a deep commitment to equity, Indigenous achievement, and uplifting those facing systemic barriers.

Through every blueprint and boardroom, Michael Robertson builds more than structures—he builds legacy. His journey inspires the next generation of Indigenous business leaders to dream boldly, design with purpose, and leave a lasting mark.

Raised on an agricultural farm near St. Jean-Baptiste, Matt has a deep appreciation of all things artistic, cultured, tasteful, and worldly. Matt loves good beer, food, wine, music, board games, and spending time with the people who are closest to him. Since 2007, he’s been involved in operations in a number of positions from frontline coordination in the film industry to ‘big picture’ strategic planning as operations manager with Nuvision Commodities Inc. and now Président, Co-Founder, and CEO of La Brasserie Nonsuch Brewing Co.

A natural leader, Matt works best in a team environment, always ensuring everyone’s best skills are utilized and everyone feels connected to the project. Using a ‘lead from behind’ approach, he’s not afraid to ignore hierarchy and do what it takes to get the job done in an orderly fashion and produce the best possible product. His strong analytical abilities have consistently produced positive results in operational efficiencies, strategies, and profits.

Fabian Sanderson is the Chief Executive Officer of the First Peoples Economic Growth Fund (FPEGF), where he leads with vision, integrity, and a deep commitment to Indigenous economic empowerment. Since joining FPEGF as a Senior Loans Account Manager, Fabian has demonstrated exceptional leadership and strategic insight, culminating in his appointment as CEO in 2023.

Over his 11-year tenure, Fabian has driven transformative growth across the organization. Under his leadership, FPEGF achieved a remarkable post-pandemic recovery, meeting pre-COVID benchmarks in 2023 and surpassing them in 2024. His ability to inspire cohesive teamwork and foster innovation has led to numerous milestones that continue to shape Manitoba’s economic landscape.

Fabian’s impact extends beyond organizational success. Named to Manitoba’s Ten to Watch List in 2024, he is recognized as one of the province’s most innovative and influential leaders. His work champions sustainable growth, supports First Nations businesses, and promotes inclusive development across Indigenous communities.

As Manitoba’s Indigenous population continues to grow, Fabian’s role as a connector, advocate, and visionary leader becomes increasingly vital. His dedication to creating positive change and building lasting economic opportunities makes him a driving force in shaping the province’s future.