UBC Sauder Indigenous Business: A Night of Connection and Celebration

The UBC Sauder School of Business and Ch’nook Indigenous Business Education recently hosted an evening that brought together current Indigenous students, alumni, and community members—opportunity to build connections, spark new friendships, and celebrate Indigenous business and leadership. 

The event held at the Robert H. Lee alumni centre opened with a traditional welcome by Musqueam Knowledge Keeper Alec Dan, a performance by Coast Salish song and dance group, the Tsatsu Stalqayu (Coastal Wolf Pack) followed by pow-wow dancers, Peter White (Men’s Traditional), Brooke Metchewais (Ladies Jingle), and Pavel Desjarlais (Drummer) from the Dancing Spirit.  

Supported by TD Bank, Vancity, and the Peter P. Dhillon Centre for Business Ethics at UBC Sauder, the event reflected the school’s commitment to fostering meaningful relationships with Indigenous communities in alignment with UBC’s Indigenous Strategic Plan and the UN Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples.  
 

Business leaders discuss their entrepreneurial paths and lessons learned along the way 

In his keynote address, Chief Clarence Louie of the Osoyoos Indian Band spoke about his nation’s business success and his philosophy around entrepreneurship.  

“I'm always looking for the next economic opportunity,” said Louie. “I love sports and I love competition. We are not a shy people traditionally. We don't walk around with our heads down and we won’t take the backseat to anybody. Five hundred years ago, we fought for our territory, protected our territory, we walked proud on it. That’s what I teach to our youth.”  

UBC Sauder’s Executive Director of Indigenous Business Initiatives and Engagement highlighted the event’s deeper meaning. “We are witnessing a generation that is not just participating in business—we’re reshaping business through culture, through community and through our Indigenous values,” said Dennis Thomas-Whonoak. “But more than that, this alumni engagement event is about connection. It’s about building relationships that last beyond the classroom.”  

A panel of distinguished alumni from UBC Sauder’s Bachelor of Commerce Program, the Ch’nook Scholars program, and the Ch’nook Management Program, joined students in a thoughtful discussion moderated by Ch’nook Scholar alum and Longhouse Branding and Marketing founder, Keenan Beavis. Together, they explored themes of mentorship, identity and the importance of giving back to their communities.  

Chief Derek Epp, elected Chief of the Tzeachten First Nation reflected on his time at UBC Sauder. “I’m proud to be a graduate of the Ch’nook Management Program. It really grounded me in solid business principles that I’ve carried into my role as elected Chief of my nation,” he said. “My advice to current and future students is to be brave, think big, and don’t be afraid to take risks.”  
 

Spreading the word and encouraging more Indigenous students to choose UBC Sauder 

UBC Sauder Dean, Darren Dahl emphasized the school’s dedication to creating a welcoming school environment where all students can thrive. “We’re working to reduce barriers and improve Indigenous access to business education through initiatives such as the Ch’nook Indigenous Business Education program, the Spitz Fellows Program for Bachelor of Commerce students, and a brand new, state-of-the-art Centre for Indigenous Business Education that will be located in our new school building currently under construction,” said Dahl. “When our alumni and partners in the community share their journeys at business events like this, it shows our current students what’s possible for them.”  

Current Bachelor of Commerce student Annaliese Verhoeff echoed that sentiment. “Being part of the UBC Sauder Indigenous community has been a transformative experience for me—not just because of the classes I take, but because of the people I’ve met. My advice to new students, is don’t be afraid to ask questions. There are so many people here to support you.”  

Kody Penner, UBC Sauder Bachelor of Commerce and Ch’nook Scholar alum, and now Vice President of Corporate Development at Nations Royalty, added: “If I had one tip for Ch’nook Scholars, it would be to use the school’s professional network. UBC Sauder and Ch’nook can open doors for you. My school network made it easier for me to transition into the professional world.”  

The evening highlighted the strength and momentum of Indigenous business leadership and the school’s growing Indigenous alumni community. Bringing together alumni, students, and community members not only honoured past achievements, but also illuminated the path forward - rooted in culture, connection, and a shared commitment to Indigenous business and leadership.