Indigenous Initiatives

Message from the Executive Director

UBC Sauder of School of Business is committed to the rebuilding of Indigenous economies in alignment with the Truth and Reconciliation Commission: Calls to Action (TRC) and the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples (UNDRIP). We recognize that achieving reconciliation will not be possible without vibrant Indigenous economies.  

To take meaningful reconciliatory action, UBC Sauder faculty and staff commit to ongoing cultural awareness training and learning of Indigenous pedagogy models. The two-eyed seeing approach will be a key factor in building bridges and fostering better relationships that support Indigenous students and communities. Guided by and rooted in the UBC Indigenous Strategic Plan, upholding safe student spaces and experiences is a top priority.  

Indigenous-led economic strategy is critical to the growth of Indigenous communities in Canada. Developing transformational business pathways ensure creative opportunities that will build a future generation of leaders. Interweaving traditional Indigenous pedagogy models with western theories will provide new platforms that allow positive growth in Indigenous communities. The unique advantage of Indigenous visionaries and entrepreneurs is the connection to cultural identity and their values system. Through these teachings they will rise to rebuild their Indigenous economies and be part of the economic fabric of Canada. 

Dennis Thomas-Whonoak
Executive Director, Indigenous Business Initiatives & Engagement
UBC Sauder School of Business