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What you can expect:

• Learn about the urban Indigenous context in Canada and the impact of the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples (UNDRIP)
• Hear from a Hereditary Chief about traditional governance
• Listen to a local case study on Indigenous-led data collection and engagement for the urban Indigenous population
• Reflect on the role of the planners in implementing UNDRIP and supporting urban Indigenous organizations in our cities

Speakers:

Chad Stump, Hereditary Chief and Executive Director, ECHEN Healing Society

Hereditary Chief Chad Stump serves as the Chief of ECHEN, dedicated to advancing the rights and well-being of the local First Nations within Quesnel City. With seven years of experience in various First Nations leadership roles, he is well-equipped to represent the diverse interests and perspectives of his people in important  negotiations with Indigenous communities and municipalities. His efforts in fostering strategic collaboration between Indigenous and non-Indigenous peoples have inspired action to promote human rights within Quesnel’s urban Indigenous population. Elected as a councillor of Esdilagh First Nation (EFN) in 2016, Chief Chad influenced federal funding frameworks, resulting in increased investments in education, health, and natural resources, often leading initiatives as Band Manager to coordinate government partnerships benefiting On-reserve population. As a leader , he has raised EFN’s profile in sustainable development and rights-based climate solutions, supported by Chilcotin Government TNG, and has contributed to the protection of Indigenous languages and jurisdictional changes in child and family services. Additionally, he is working to implement restorative justice practices within Quesnel schools and actively participates in aboriginal committees related to education . As the BC Winter Games Inclusion Director 2023, Chad’s passion for community developmentand advocacy is evident. Born and raised in the Cariboo, he brings extensive knowledge of local First Nations politics, industry experience, and a deep spiritual connection to his ancestors’ wisdom, traditions, and stories, remaining committed to fostering  opportunity for his people and neighbors alike.

Carlos Kelly, Project Assistant, ECHEN Healing Society

Carlos is a multidisciplinary professional with extensive experience spanning culinary, industrial, research, and customer service domains. Holding both a Bachelor’s and a master’s degree in Biochemistry from the University of Guadalajara, Mexico, he possesses a strong foundation in biological sciences complemented by skills in management, technical operations, and community engagement. His entrepreneurial endeavors include founding and managing FISH & CHIPS Carlos Place, while his technical expertise was gained as a Floor hand on TERVITA Oil Rigs, where he developed competencies in industrial safety protocols . Carlos’ research experience includes auxiliary roles at the Occidental Institute of Biological Research IMSS and the Civil Hospital of Guadalajara, contributing to scientific projects and laboratory operations. Additionally, he has held managerial roles in customer service as a Business Credit Card Manager at Bank of America. Since 2019, Carlos has actively supported First Nations communities within urban settings by fostering relationship-building, cultural preservation, and community development initiatives aimed at promoting social cohesion . Currently, he advises on policy development at provincial and federal levels to advance urban Indigenous initiatives, emphasizing long-term community empowerment . Carlos seeks to leverage his scientific background, community engagement experience, and leadership skills to contribute to innovative projects that promote social developmentand the integration of scientific and cultural perspectives in policymaking.

Janelle Derksen, Senior Community Planner, CitySpaces Consulting Ltd.

Janelle Derksen is a Registered Professional Planner with the Canadian Institute of Planners and is currently working as a Senior Community Planner at CitySpaces Consulting. She brings senior level experience in housing policy, Indigenous community planning, and community engagement. Throughout her career, Janelle has worked extensively in rural, and northern communities, as well as the urban Indigenous context. Her past experience includes her roles with City of Yellowknife, Housing Northwest Territories, and Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC). At CitySpaces, she leads a diverse portfolio of projects, including direct collaboration with Indigenous organizations such as ECHEN Healing Society.

Moderator: 

Kristen Harrison, National Director, Policy and Public Affairs at Canadian Institute of Planners