Indigenous Panel
Embracing Authentic Partnerships, Beyond Land Acknowledgements

This panel invites attendees to explore the next steps in fostering genuine, long-term partnerships with Indigenous & First Nations communities, going beyond symbolic gestures toward meaningful, actionable collaboration. Through engaging discussions and real-life examples, participants will learn how to integrate Indigenous knowledge, values, and leadership into the tourism industry in ways that promote progress, cultural preservation, and economic empowerment. The session will highlight how authentic partnerships can enrich tourism experiences, strengthen community relationships, and create shared benefits for all stakeholders. Attendees will leave with practical strategies for advancing Indigenous collaboration and contributing to a more inclusive and respectful tourism landscape.

Speakers: Chatman Shaw with Indigenous Tourism British Columbia, Rhys Laug with Quaoout Lodge, Janelle Brewer with Janelle Brewer Consulting, Justen Peters with Okanagan Indian Band, and Jamie Bourne with Indigenous Tourism British Columbia as moderator.