Judith Sayers
Co-Chair, Island Corridor Foundation
I would like to extend a very warm welcome to all the delegates of this year’s conference entitled “Energizing Communities for Success”. As indigenous communities seek to diversify their economies, the energy sector is one that can be engaged and developed according to First Nations values.
Alternative energy and other emerging technologies are areas First Nations can make strides in and lead in the industry. During the conference we will explore opportunities, best practices and the challenges associated with development.
Delegates will be able to use information and relationships formed to go back to your communities and work towards successful energy projects.
Pierre Guimond
President and Chief Executive Officer, Canadian Electricity Association
I am honoured to serve as Co-Chair for the National Aboriginal Energy and Power Association’s 2011 Annual Conference. Access to energy and electricity is essential to our lives – our homes, communities, businesses and industries depend on it.
This year’s conference theme of “Energizing Communities for Success” strikes at the heart of my personal belief in providing sustainable, reliable and affordable electricity to all Canadians.
Today’s electricity system is in transition. Investment is required to renew, rebuild and replace aging infrastructure and to sustainably meet our future electricity needs. This investment cannot happen successfully without participation and involvement of Aboriginal businesses and communities.
Further, it represents an opportunity to increase access to this essential commodity, to advance socio-economic growth and to promote business development amongst Aboriginal communities. The transition of Canada’s electricity system starts now. We must make investment decisions today to prepare for tomorrow’s energy future. It starts at events like this – where we can engage in meaningful dialogue about the opportunities and challenges of working together to power Canada’s future. I look forward to working together to make our sustainable energy future a reality.
Bob Joseph
President, National Aboriginal Energy and Power Association
The National Aboriginal Energy and Power Association is proud to present our second annual conference – “Energizing Communities for Success”. The conference will feature great technical learning sessions for communities to explore power and energy opportunities that are positive and respectful to the environment.
We are very honoured to have some truly inspiring speakers who will share their experiences in developing energy projects from both the community and the corporate perspective. New and even more exciting is the Business and Employment Opportunities Expo that is designed to encourage Aboriginal Peoples and communities to explore careers and business opportunities in the power and energy sector. It is our goal to provide a relaxed and friendly environment that will support and foster conversations and connections as well as create opportunities for individuals and communities in a vibrant power and energy sector.
It is my sincere hope that all those who attend and support this second annual conference and business and employment expo will come away with an increased respect and understanding of each other and a heightened awareness of the vast opportunities in the power and energy sector in terms of individual employment and economic strength for Aboriginal communities.