June is the perfect month for critical reflection, as the various causes that we rally for and celebrate help us remember our commitment to fostering a more inclusive and equitable Canada. Today we are joined by one of Canada’s most prominent social entrepreneurs and foremost expert in Indigenous economic innovation and workplace inclusion strategies, Kelly Lendsay. As the Founder, President, and CEO of Indigenous Works (formerly the Aboriginal Human Resource Council), Kelly is geared toward increasing the engagement of Indigenous people in the Canadian economy. Today is all about getting to know CCDI’s long-time strategic partner, Indigenous Works a little better, and we begin with how Kelly developed his passion for all things related to Indigenous inclusion. We explore the organizational setups of Indigenous Works and Luminary - Kelly’s newest ground-breaking initiative – and our guest details the opportunities that await by joining the DreamMakers Council.  To end, Kelly reminds us of the important work that still needs to be done for Indigenous inclusion in Canada, and he gives us a glimpse into the upcoming annual Inclusion Works conference.

Key Points From This Episode:

• How Canada’s water shortage reminds us of the work that still needs to be done.
• Getting to know Kelly Lendsay and why he’s passionate about Indigenous inclusion. 
• Indigenous Works: what the organization is all about and why this work matters. 
• Kelly’s vision for the new DreamMakers Council.
• Today’s most pressing issues and emerging opportunities in Indigenous inclusion.
• What to look forward to at Inclusion Works in October ‘24. 
• The ins and outs of Luminary, and how this work impacts Indigenous inclusion efforts.

Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode: 

• Kelly Lendsay on LinkedIn
• Kelly Lendsay on X
• Indigenous Works 
• Luminary: Advancing Indigenous Innovation
• Rotman-ICD Directors Education 
• The Assembly of First Nations 
• Edwards School of Business 
• The DreamMakers Council 
• Inclusion Works ‘24 
• National Indigenous Economy Strategy 
• Strategic Science Fund
• Canadian Centre for Diversity and Inclusion
• Leader Talks with Anne-Marie Pham