Today, we stand at a pivotal moment in history. Across our Nations, there is growing recognition that the future cannot be built solely upon systems designed without us. We have an opportunity to advance a new narrative, one that is grounded by our inherent responsibilities, our laws, our knowledge systems, and our vision for the generations yet to come. The path ahead requires collaboration. No single Nation, leader, or organization can carry this work alone. We must learn from one another, share our experiences, and build relationships that strengthen our collective capacity to lead.

It is in this spirit that we invite you to become a partner in the Leading Our Nations Conference. This gathering is more than a just a conference. It is a forum for meaningful dialogue, practical learning, and collective action. Together, we will explore the opportunities and challenges facing First Nations leadership today while drawing upon the wisdom of our ancestors and the innovations emerging within our communities.

September 1 - 3, 2026

Victoria Inn, Hotel and Convention Centre

1808 Wellington Avenue
Winnipeg, MB R3H 0G3

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About The Conference

Leading Our Nations: Sovereignty, Purpose, and Integrity in First Nations Leadership is a transformative three-day summit designed to empower those who lead, support, and strengthen our Nations. Participants will have the opportunity to learn, reflect, connect, and grow alongside others who share a commitment to strong governance, community well-being, and Nation-building.

Who Should Attend?

Chiefs and Council Members
Former and Aspiring Leaders
Band Managers and Senior Administrators
Directors, Managers, and Leadership Teams
Economic Development, Housing, Education, Health, and Governance Professionals
Elders and Knowledge Keepers
Youth and Emerging Leaders
Anyone committed to strengthening their Nation through leadership and service

Together, we will challenge the colonial status quo by bringing together elected leaders, leadership teams, administrators, Elders, youth, and community changemakers to reclaim traditional values of service while strengthening the practical skills required for effective governance and Nation-building. Through shared knowledge, honest conversations, and meaningful connections, we can help build stronger leaders, stronger organizations, and stronger Nations for generations to come.

This is a space for true capacity building, grounded in four core pillars:

Decolonizing Governance: Rebuilding systems based on our own laws and dignity.
The Hard Skills: Council professionalism, ethics, and administrative navigation.
The Human Element: Breaking the "24/7" burnout cycle and supporting families.
Life Beyond Politics: Navigating identity and purpose after leaving office.

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Driven by Experience and Tradition

Jill Featherstone is a visionary, speaker, author, and social entrepreneur dedicated to breaking cycles, removing barriers, and building leaders. For over a decade, she has empowered thousands through workshops across Canada, creating spaces for growth, confidence, and lasting change.

Through platforms like the Driving While Indigenous and She Manifested It podcasts, and the Driving While Indigenous Motivational Event & Gala, Jill brings together trailblazers and change-makers to share stories, resources, and possibilities to create lasting change.

Maureen Brown is a five-term former leader and the first woman ever elected Chief of Opaskwayak Cree Nation

With over 20 years of experience in governance, education, and advocacy, she is a fluent Cree speaker and published writer renowned for bridging cultures and building First Nations partnerships. Guided by ancestral teachings, Maureen founded Mikapipikwun Edge to mentor future leaders who uphold the integrity and tenacity of their heritage.

Registration & Sponsorship

Your Partnership Fuels Transformation

Partnering with Leading Our Nations offers three primary areas of impact:

Community Impact: Align your brand with meaningful Reconciliation and CSR goals by contributing directly to the capacity building of First Nations governance.
Visibility: Gain high-value exposure to a concentrated audience of First Nations decision-makers, establishing your organization as a dedicated ally.
Networking: Engage directly with influential voices, current leaders, and respected Knowledge Keepers shaping the future of our Nations.

Registration & Sponsorship