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Conferences & Events

National Conference 2008

AFOA's 2008 National Conference was held in Montreal, Quebec on February 12 - 14, 2008.

Conference Program

Tuesday, February 12, 2008

11 am - 4:30 pm Exhibitor Set-Up
4 pm - 8 pm Registration
6 pm - 9 pm Opening Reception with Exhibitors with Entertainment

Wednesday, February 13, 2008

7:30 am - 5 pm Registration
7:30 am - 8:30 am Networking Breakfast / Visit the Exhibitors and the Xerox Technology Café
8:30 am

Prayer:

Billy Two Rivers, Elder, Mohawk Council of Akwesasne, Quebec

Welcome:

Conference Co-Chairs:

Ricky Fontaine, CAFM, Senior Partner, RSF Consulting Service, Quebec
Lise Bastien, Director, First Nations Education Council, Quebec

Greetings

Ghislain Picard, Regional Chief, Assembly of First Nations - Quebec & Labrador
9:00 am - 10:30 am

Opening Plenary

Round Table: Managing the Relationship Between Elected and Senior Staff: A Team Approach

Two key building blocks of Aboriginal social and economic prosperity are effective management and good leadership. In many ways it is the quality of the relationship between elected leaders and managers that determines the community's success in reaching its goals. Some communities have experienced significant challenges trying to make this relationship work, and some have developed successful strategies to build this relationship. This opening plenary will set the stage for the conference program with a distinguished Round Table of senior leaders and managers who will address the issues critical to ensuring that those who govern and those who manage work together to build strong effective relationships that benefit our people. Questions that will be addressed include: Can a clear line be drawn between politics and administration? What are some best practices for managing the relationship? How can both parties in the relationship participate effectively in strategic planning and performance reporting? How important are community size, history and culture in shaping the relationship? How can a healthy relationship be sustained when key 'players' change?

Facilitators:

Bruno Bonneville, President, Stratéjuste
Rosa Walker, Executive Director, Aboriginal Leadership and Management, The Banff Centre

Panel:

Grand Council Chief John Beaucage, Union of Ontario Indians
Brian Calliou, Director, Aboriginal Leadership and Management, The Banff Centre
Chief Deborah Chief, Brokenhead First Nation, Manitoba
Rick Morano, CAFM, CMA, Chief Financial Officer, Rama Mnjikaning First Nation, Ontario
Brenda Rivers, Director of Operations, Sagamok Anishnawbek First Nation, Ontario
Fred Tolmie, CAFM,CGA, Chief Operating Officer, Nisga’a First Nation, British Columbia
Jean-Guy Whiteduck, former Chief, Kitigan Zibi, Québec
10:30 am - 11 am Networking Break with Exhibitors and Visit the Xerox Technology Café
11 am - 12:30 pm Concurrent Workshops
Financial Management

Workshop A - Financial Reporting: A Preview of CICA Recommendations and Implications for First Nations

Financial Reporting by First Nations is the title of a ground-breaking study by CICA due to be published by June 2008. This study looks at the lack of accounting standards for First Nations and makes a number of recommendations for change. This session will provide a brief overview of the project and outline the feedback received on the draft report issued in the summer of 2007. In reviewing the feedback, the Study Group realized that it was critical to point out the implications that flow from their recommendations. These implications have been added to the report. Find out what the Study Group is recommending and what the implications are for First Nations. The session will also focus on the plans of the Department of Indian & Northern Affairs and AFOA with respect to these recommendations, including building capacity in First Nations to enable them to respond to these recommendations.

Moderator:

Fred Tolmie, CAFM, CGA, Chief Operation Officer, Nisga'a First Nation, BC and Member, Financial Reporting by First Nations Study Group

Speakers:

Nola Buhr, Associate Dean, College of Commerce, University of Saskatchewan and Researcher, Financial Reporting by First Nations Study Group
Ernie Daniels, CAFM, CGA, President & Chief Operation Officer, AFOA Canada
Gary Robertson, Director, Transfer Payments and Financial Policies, Indian and Northern Affairs Canada
Governance

Workshop B - The Perils of the Portfolio System

Many Aboriginal communities have chosen to assign roles for their leaders through a portfolio system. John Graham of the Institute on Governance, an Ottawa-based think tank, will review research his organization has conducted on this approach to community leadership, outlining some of the potential pitfalls and possible solutions inherent in the portfolio approach. Dan Kohoko, Executive Director of the Pikwakanagan First Nation, will provide his perspectives on this intriguing subject.

Moderator:

Janice Rose, MBA, Board Member, AFOA Canada

Speakers:

John Graham, CMC, Senior Associate, Institute on Governance
Dan Kohoko, Executive Director, Pikwakanagan First Nation, Ontario
Beginners

Workshop C - Developing an Effective Remedial Plan: Key Strategies and Success Stories

AFOA is conducting a research study on developing an effective remedial management plan (RMP) which will result in a publication, on-line course and workshop. This session will look at the results of that study and in particular focus on: What is a remedial management plan (RMP)? Understanding the RMP and its impact; How do you develop an effective RMP? Measuring and assessing performance of the RMP; and, communicating around the RMP. In 2003 the Listuguj First Nation voluntarily entered into co-management. Since then the Council has successfully developed and managed an RMP which resulted in a high level of discipline in planning, improvements in access to accurate and timely financial information and a positive impact on Program service levels. A representative from Listuguj will discuss the community’s experience.

Moderator:

Susan Wood, CAFM, Fiannce Manager, Skidegate Band Council and Board Member, AFOA Canada

Speakers:

Stephen Ashe, CAFM, Manager, Grant Thornton LLP
Bob Smith, Director of Finance, Listuguj Mi'gmaq Government, Quebec
Managing Effectively

Workshop D - Telling the Performance Story: Performance Reporting in First Nations

AFOA is completing an important study that will introduce the concept of performance reporting in a First Nation context. The focus is on reporting on performance to community members and elected leaders. The resulting publication and course will help First Nations to use performance reporting as part of their strategy to enhance performance and strengthen governance. This conference session will look at the results of that study. Delegates will be introduced to the Aboriginal Performance Wheel, core aspects of performance and a performance reporting process and framework. Speakers will focus on: Why should First Nations care about reporting on performance? What is different about reporting in a First Nation context? What has been the experience to date in First Nations and other governments with performance reporting and what will be required to effectively begin this process? How will this study help?

Moderator:

Romeo Crow Chief, CAFM, President, AFOA Alberta and Chair, AFOA Canada

Speakers:

Grand Council Chief John Beaucage, Union of Ontario Indians
Jérôme Berthelette, Principal, Office of the Auditor General of Canada
Tammy Drew, CAFM, General Manager, Miawpukek First Nation, Newfoundland
Michael Weir, President, Audire Management Services
Healthy Workplace

Workshop E - Nurturing Healthy Employees: Creating a Smoke-Free Workplace

A healthy workplace means healthy, productive employees. In this session, Professor Murray Kelly will present an overview of the current scientific and therapeutic knowledge of tobacco addiction and effective treatment programs for First Nations smokers. He will outline the treatment process employed at the Tobacco Healing Centre, how and why First Nations ceremonies and traditions are fully integrated into this ‘state of the art’ addiction science, and the amazing impact this has had on the recovery potential of First Nations smokers. Special mention will be made of the dynamic between the ‘Walk of Life’ and the Sweatlodge in creating a profoundly healing environment of protection, love and trust so that those who face this powerful addiction might gain the confidence they require to break free. Everyone can recover from the addiction to tobacco and be free of the negative feelings surrounding the use of a sacred medicine as a survival tool. “Great healing flows from the return of tobacco to its traditional ways.” Grandfather William Commanda.

Moderator:

Gloria Allen, Program Officer, Human Resources & Skills Development Canada and Board Member, AFOA Canada

Speakers:

Dr. Murray Kelly, Executive Director, Tobacco Healing Centre, Ontario
Product Information

Adagio by Softrack

This powerful accounting system is modular, batchoriented, and designed specifically for report-driven organizations with a full time accounting department and no IT department. Adagio offers full departmental accounting with data entry that is easy to learn, using forms and keyboard (mouse optional), tight audit trails and unsurpassed reporting flexibility. Users of ACCPAC Plus can move to Adagio in an afternoon, as there is no data conversion and very little training needed. Users of Simply Accounting or ACCPAC Advantage can move overnight, and keep all their data intact. Find out how Adagio can improve budget control and management reporting, while reducing year-end audit fees and consultant expenses. Find out how a First Nation in British Columbia produces their complete, year-end financial statements for their accountants' approval.

Speakers:

Andrew Bates, President, Softrak Systems Inc.
12:30 pm - 1:45 pm

Luncheon -Presentation of the AFOA/Grant Thornton Aboriginal Youth Financial Management Conference Awards

Pierre Monette, Vice President, Montreal Region, Grant Thornton Raymond Chabot LLP
Marshall Murdock, National Director, Aboriginal Sector Business Development & Marketing, Business Consulting Services, Grant Thornton LLP
Rebecca Sangwais, Grenfell High Community School, Saskatchewan
Sayla Spence, Children of the Earth High School, Manitoba
Geordy Marshall, Eskasoni High School, Nova Scotia
2 pm - 3 pm Plenary

Indigenous Peoples Working Together

As a renowned individual who has worked for over four decades for the Indigenous Peoples not only from North America but throughout the world, Dr. Wilton Littlechild has garnered the respect of his colleagues for the expertise he brings to any gathering. A former Member of Parliament and representative to the United Nations Permanent Forum on Indigenous Issues, one of the co-authors of the UN Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples, and Regional Chief for Treaties 6, 7, 8 (Alberta), he understands the importance of leadership and management working cooperatively and respectfully in their relevant roles and responsibilities to ensure the challenges being faced at the First Nation community’s level are suitably addressed. Dr. Littlechild’s presentation will focus on the challenges leadership and management have in working effectively to support the economic and social development of the First Nation’s communities; and how such challenges may be surmounted.

Speaker:

Dr. Wilton Littlechild, Regional Chief, Assembly of First Nations and former representative of the UN Permanent Forum on Indigenous Issues
3 pm - 3:30 pm Networking Break with Exhibitors and Visit the Xerox Technology Café
3:30 pm - 5 pm Concurrent Workshops
Beginners

Workshop F - An Introduction to the Strategic Plan: The Key to Better Performance in Your Community

Strategic planning is key to better performance in First Nation communities and organizations. Without a strategic plan, day-to-day operations tend to be reactionary and opportunistic rather than intentional and strategic. This is why strategic planning should be a priority for all First Nation communities and organizations. It is a well accepted belief that a written plan that is arrived at through consensus of the organization’s key stakeholders will result in much greater success than reacting to the issues of day-to-day life. There are many new issues and opportunities facing all communities and organizations today and the need for strategic thinking and planning has never been more important. This session will discuss key elements to developing a strategic plan with a focus on the experience of First Nations who have successfully embarked on strategic planning processes.

Moderator:

Alex Sawchuck, CAFM, CMA, Finance Manager, Métis Nation of Alberta

Speakers:

David John Facca, CA, Senior Manager, BDO Dunwoody LLP
Debbie Mayer, Band Manager, Mississauga First Nation, Ontario
Joe Melisek, CMC, Senior Manager, Consulting, BDO Dunwoody LLP
Financial Management

Workshop G - Enhancing Accountability and Governance in Your Investment Strategies

As the decision-makers for our communities, we must ensure that we are accountable to our beneficiaries. Whether your community has funds or plans to receive funds as a result of business revenues, TLE’s, or specific/comprehensive claims, there are a number of accountability measures in an investment strategy that ensure proper procedures are followed and processes are met. This session will explore those strategies and procedures with a focus on the experience of two First Nations who have been successful in both enhancing accountability for their investment strategies and increasing their return on investment.

Moderator:

Dana Soonias, CAFM, Manager, Aboriginal Business Development, Concentra Financial and Board Member, AFOA Canada

Speakers:

Jack Jamieson, Vice President, T.E. Wealth, T.E. Investment Counsel Inc.
Rick Morano, CAFM, CMA, Chief Financial Officer, Rama Mnjikaning First Nation, Ontario
Jim Prodger, Manager of Finance, Millbrook First Nation, Nova Scotia
Governance

Workshop H - Taking Control: A Made in Nunavut Solution to Managing Insurance Risk

Whether a community is First Nation, Métis or Inuit, it faces the same challenges relating to risk. There are assets which have to be restored or repaired in the event of a loss and a community may be liable if it causes injury to third parties. The commercial insurance market place makes profits by assuming other people’s risks in return for charging a premium. A commercial insurer seeks to minimize risk and maximize profits and will therefore avoid risks perceived as unacceptable and only write less desirable risks at a higher premium. Nunavut is typical of many Aboriginal communities that are faced with insurers’ negative perception of their risks. In 2002, they chose to follow an alternative path and create a “made in the North” solution to this problem. The Nunavut Association of Municipalities created the Nunavut Association of Municipalities Insurance Exchange (NAMIX) a reciprocal insurance exchange to insure the primary property and liability risks of its communities. Premiums are pooled and claims paid out of these funds. Speakers at this session will describe this innovative program and its benefits, and discuss how others can develop a similar program.

Moderator:

Shirley Allder, CAFM, CGA, Assistant Comptroller General, Government of Nunavut

Speakers:

Peter Boucher, Project Leader and Risk Management Consultant, Nunavut Communities Insurance Program (NCIP)
Doug Crossley, Principal Attorney, Nunavut Association of Municipalities Insurance Exchange (NAMIX)
Lynda Gunn, Chief Executive Officer, Nunavut Association of Municipalities (NAM)
Mayor Elisapee Sheutiapik, Mayor of Iqualuit, Chair of the Board, Nunavut Association of Municipalities and Chair, Nunavut Association of Municipalities Insurance Exchange (NAMIE)
Managing Effectively

Workshop I - Innovations in Market Housing

Over the past several years, many First Nations have implemented successful housing policies and management regimes, and some have implemented financing techniques leading to expanded housing choices for their members. In this session, you will hear directly from a few of these communities, learn about their diverse approaches and the elements needed to effectively support market-based housing, including both homeownership and rental housing. The session will also include a presentation on the First Nations Market Housing Fund, an innovative new tool which will help qualifying, interested First Nations takes steps to give their members living on-reserve a better chance to own their own home.

Moderator:

Tracy Howse, Housing Manager, Miawpukek First Nation, Newfoundland

Speakers:

Chief Lance Haymond, Eagle Village First Nation, Quebec
Kevin McLeod, Home Ownership Project Manager, Federation of Saskatchewan Indian Nations
Deborah Taylor, Team Leader, First Nations Market Housing Fund, Canada Mortgage & Housing Corporation
Financial Management

Workshop J - The Role of Property Tax in the First Nations Fiscal Framework

Some First Nations have begun to transition their real property taxation regimes from Section 83 of the Indian Act to the First Nation Fiscal and Statistical Management Act. First Nations that choose to make this transition will be passing local revenue laws and then preparing special purpose financial statements to track transactions in the “Local Revenue Account”. The Tsawout First Nation has already begun this process and a representative will discuss their experience in making this transition. This session will enable individuals to understand the role of the First Nations Financial Management Board (FMB) and First Nations Tax Commission (FNTC) in making the transition. Key questions to be addressed include: Which transactions belong in the “Local Revenue Account”? How is a special purpose financial statement for the “Local Revenue Account” prepared? How do the FNTC “Local Expenditure Law Standards” relate to the special purpose “Local Revenue Account” financial statement? Will the transition to the FSMA enable First Nations to comply with changing accounting standards (resulting from CICA study on First Nation Reporting and PSAB Government Reporting)? The FMB has been conducting research relating to these questions and is strengthening its partnership with the AFOA to offer capacity development initiatives through the CAFM designation and Executive Development programs. This partnership and capacity development opportunities with both the FMB and AFOA will be discussed.

Moderator:

Ken Scopick, Chief Operating Officer, First Nations Tax Commission

Speakers:

Chief Allan Claxton, Tsawout First Nation, British Columbia
Russel Harder, CGA, Comptroller, Tsawout First Nation, British Columbia
C.T. (Manny) Jules, Chief Commissioner, First Nations Tax Commission
Marilyn Osecap, CAFM, Vice-Chair, First Nations Financial Management Board
Shirley Wolff, CA, Associate Partner, Assurance and Advisory, Deloitte & Touche LLP
Financial Management

Workshop K - Financial Instruments and Capital Assets

 

Moderator:

Tamara Saulis, CAFM, Director, Finance & Administration, AFOA Canada

Speakers:

Andrew Newman, CA, Partner, Audit, Public Sector Practice, KPMG Ottawa
Product Information

Adagio FX (for smaller bands)

Softrak’s award-winning Financial Statement Designer, brings drag-and-drop, presentation-quality financial statement design to Simply Accounting and QuickBooks users. Statement layout, formatting and design are completely independent of the chart of accounts. No “account mapping” is required. Completely automate month-end statement creation using statement groups. Adagio FX easily creates prior year, departmental and budget comparatives, with complete drill-down to the posted transactions. If you use Simply Accounting, QuickBooks, ACCPAC Plus, Business Vision or ACCPAC Advantage, you will find this seminar enlightening, interesting and entertaining. All seminar attendees will be eligible to receive a free and unrestricted copy of Adagio FX Professional Edition after visiting our booth.
 

Speakers:

Andrew Bates, Speaker, Softrak Systems Inc.
5:15 pm - 6:30 pm

AFOA Canada Annual General Meeting (for members in good standing)

Evening of free time for participants.

Thursday, February 14, 2008

7:30 am - 6:30 pm Registration
7:30 am - 8:30 am Networking Continental Breakfast / Visit the Exhibitors and the Xerox Technology Café
8:30 am - 8:40 am

Prayer

Billy Two Rivers, Elder, Mohawk Council of Akwesasne, Quebec
8:40 am - 10 am

Plenary - Aboriginal Self-Government: Success Stories

Success Story One - The New Relationship Between the Cree of Eeyou Istchee and the Canadian Government

The Grand Council of the Crees and the Canadian Government have recently come to an agreement which aims to put an end to years of controversy over the James Bay and Northern Québec Agreement (JBNQA). The JBNQA was signed in 1975. However, the government and the Crees of Eeyou Istchee held different views on how to best implement the JBNQA. After years of litigation, on August 2004, negotiators signed a Statement of Intention to begin an out-of-court process demonstrating a mutual commitment to settling issues through meaningful discussion. The result is the Agreement Concerning a New Relationship between the Government of Canada and the Cree of Eeyou Istchee. The Agreement will allow the Crees to assume federal responsibilities in the areas of administration of justice and economic and social development and represents a new form of regional government unique in Canada. At this session, Bill Namagoose, Executive Director of the Grand Council of the Crees will discuss with delegates the key issues involved in the New Relationship and how the Crees are implementing self-governance in this context.

Speakers:

Bill Namagoose, Executive Director, Grand Council of the Crees, Quebec

Success Story Two - The Journey Towards Inuvialuit Self-Government

In May 2007, the Inuvialuit Regional Corporation signed a Self-Government Process and Schedule Agreement (PSA) with the Governments of Canada and the NWT which represented an important milestone toward negotiation a self-government agreement and fulfilling the Inuvialuit vision for governing their region and people. The PSA sets out the approach that the Inuvialuit Regional Corporation and the Governments of Canada and the NWT will take to future self-government negotiations and outlines the topics that need to be addressed to reach a self-government agreement including how the Inuvialuit will assume new responsibilities over certain regional programs and services that affect the Inuvialuit people. Vince Teddy is the negotiator for self-government on behalf of the Inuvialuit in the Beaufort-Delta Region. He will discuss with delegates the progress of the self-government negotiations and how elected leaders and community management are preparing for self-government.

Speakers:

Vince Teddy, Inuvialuit Self-Government Negotiator, Northwest Territories

Success Story Three - The Relationship Between the People, Elected Leaders & Management - A Key Challenge for First Nation Governance and Management: The Experience of the Innus

Mashteuiatsh is the only First Nation situated in Saguenay – Lac-Saint-Jean. It is presently in negotiations with two Innus communities in order to conclude a treaty with the governments of Quebec and Canada. A memorandum of understanding of a general nature has been signed between the parties in April 2004. In reflecting on this ultimate objective, the Council of the Montagnais of Lac Saint-Jean is gradually working towards the development of its governance and management structure in order to be able to fully assume its current and future responsibilities. The relationship between the people, the elected leaders and senior management is at the heart of this development. Chief Gilbert Dominique will  discuss their experience.

Speakers:

Chief Gilbert Dominique, Conseil des Montagnais du Lac-Saint-Jean, Quebec

 

10 am - 10:30 am Networking Break with the Exhibits and Visit the Xerox Technology Café
10:30 am - 12 pm Concurrent Workshops
Financial Management

Workshop L -An Introduction to the Audit Committee

The role of the Audit Committee will become increasingly important as we move to self-government. Audit Committees have come to be recognized as the cornerstone of a successful and credible financial reporting system. This session will introduce delegates to the Audit Committee, the role it plays in accountability and governance, members' roles and responsibilities, its relationship with the external auditor and other related issues.

Moderator:

John Carter, CAFM, Board Member, AFOA Canada

Speakers:

Jason Calla, Associate, Fiscal Realities Economists
Jim Goodfellow, CA, Partner, Deloitte & Touche LLP and co-author, Integrity in the Spotlight: Audit Committees in a High Risk World
Russel Harder, CGA, Comptroller, Tsawout First Nation, British Columbia
David Laidley, Chairman Emeritus, Deloitte & Touche LLP and Director, Bank of Canada
Managing Effectively

Workshop M - Increasing Aboriginal Participation in the Technology Sector

This joint presentation from IBM Canada and Treaty 7 Management Corporation demonstrates Aboriginal management and leadership working together with industry and government to create an effective approach to prosperity. The IBM Alberta Aboriginal Partnership Agreement signed June 4th, 2007 included four First Nation and four Métis communities as signatories. In a leadership role, Treaty 7 Management Corporation serves as a conduit to bring the benefits of the agreement to the Treaty's seven First Nation communities. That makes for 13 communities benefiting from collaboration! This presentation will highlight the innovative approach used to advance the Partner's common goal of increasing Aboriginal participation in the technology sector for education, community and economic benefit. Hear about the foundation for the agreement, the collaboration and the successes to date.

Moderator:

Jacques Lepage, CAFM, Board Member, AFOA Canada

Speakers:

Mary Jane Loustel, National Aboriginal Program Executive, IBM Canada Limited
Ryann Robb, Director Business Development & IT, Treaty 7 Management Corporation, Alberta
Governance

Workshop N - The Innue Essipit First Nation: A Success Story

The Innue Essipit First Nation has experienced very successful economic development in the last several years. The First Nation is also the first Québec First Nation to join the First Nations Land Management regime. This session will focus on the Innue Essipit’s experience spearheading the development of the Land Management Act in Québec, as well as the success story that is represented by its significant economic development.

Speakers:

Marc Chaloult, Communications Consultant, Innue Essipit First Nation, Quebec
Chief Denis Ross, Innue Essipit First Nation, Quebec
Yvon Savard, Consultant, Innue Essipit First Nation, Quebec
Managing Effectively

Workshop O - Comprehensive Community Planning: Key Strategies and Success Stories

Comprehensive Community Planning on reserve is fundamentally different from mainstream community planning. Culturally, legislatively, historically, and socially, First Nations people face distinct challenges. AFOA is completing a research study on Comprehensive Community Planning (CCP) which will result in a publication, course and workshop. This session will focus on the results of that study including a brief history of CCP, how indigenous principles are integrated into the planning process and current models. The session will also focus on the experience of the Atlantic Policy Congress of First Nation Chiefs who took ownership of Atlantic CCP efforts in 2006. This initiative involves targeted training for “community planning officers,” implementation tool kits, and development of a management control framework to provide guidance on how First Nation leaders can integrate comprehensive community plans into everyday decision making.

Moderator:

Stephen Fay, National Director, BMO Bank of Montreal

Speaker:

Violet Paul, Senior Policy Analyst, Atlantic Policy Congress of First Nation Chiefs
Harold Tarbell, Senior Partner, Gaspé, Tarbell & Associates
Tracey Wade, First Nation Comprehensive Community Planning Coordinator, Atlantic Policy Congress of First Nation Chiefs
Healthy Workplace

Workshop P - Women in Financial Leadership

Unlike governments or corporations, Aboriginal communities entrust a great deal more leadership and financial policy decision making to women. This session will focus on Aboriginal women in financial leadership roles. What is unique about being a woman in a financial leadership role? What are the pros and cons of a woman holding a financial leadership role within a Band? What advice can be offered to other women in similar roles, or women wanting to enter into such a role? How can AFOA encourage an increased role for women in leadership? Speakers will be bringing their experience and knowledge from Tribes in the United States.

Moderator:

Caroline Garon, CAFM, CGA, Chief Financial Officer, Assembly of First Nations and Board Member, AFOA Canada

Speakers:

Donna Miranda Begay, Chief Executive Officer, NAVA Tech and Tribal Chairwoman, Tubatulabals of Kern Valley, California
Lynn Dee Rapp, Managing Partner, Seacrest Investment Management, South Dakota
Product Information

The Certified Aboriginal Financial Manager (CAFM) - What is a CAFM and How Can you Become One?

The CAFM designation is the only one of its kind in the world and is fast becoming one of the most preferred credentials for Aboriginal employers seeking financial professionals. A CAFM designation demonstrates professional credibility, competency and integrity. This session will provide information on how you can qualify to be a CAFM – if you have sufficient experience in Aboriginal financial management, it might be easier than you think!
 

Speakers:

Randy Mayes, CAFM, Membership Coordinator, AFOA Canada
12 pm - 1:30 pm

Luncheon- Sharing Canada's Prosperity - A Hand Up, not a Handout

Senator Gerry St. Germain co-authored a 2007 report entitled “Sharing Canada’s Prosperity – A Hand Up, not a Handout” which took two years to complete and is based on 31 public hearings and testimonies from 155 witnesses. The report deals with the involvement of Aboriginal communities and businesses in economic development activities in Canada. It focused specifically on elements that enable Aboriginal communities to succeed in all areas of the economy and obstacles to their achievement. Senator St. Germain will discuss the findings of the study with conference delegates.

Keynote Speaker:

Senator Gerry St. Germain, Chair, Standing Senate Committee on Aboriginal Peoples and Co-Author, Sharing Canada's Prosperity - A Hand Up, not a Handout
1:30 pm - 3 pm Concurrent Workshops
Beginner

Workshop Q - How to Successfully Manage Your Money: A Look at Personal Financial Planning

Sometimes people pay more attention to managing their organization or community’s finances than they do their own personal finances. This session is focused on tips and strategies to creating your own personal wealth. Certain words can create anxiety regarding money - budgets, expenses, debt, investments! Knowing the "Myths and Truths" about personal financial planning in this session will help you develop a personal financial plan that you can control with the right skills, tools, and motivation. While many individual's financial situations are similar, few are identical, and everyone is responsible and accountable for managing their finances successfully for growth, balance and harmony.

Moderator:

Carol-Ann Barnaby, CAFM, Sage Accpac Certified Consultant and Vice President, Abenaki Associates and Board Member, AFOA Canada

Speakers:

Ismo Heikkila, CFP, National Director, Financial Education & Employer Services, T.E. Financial Consultants
Governance

Workshop R - Engaging Youth and Emerging Leadership in Governance

A strong housing system is key to the well-being of a community and is a strong indicator of "results" and "performance" in Aboriginal communities. In this session First Nation communities will share their experiences and creative solutions in increasing housing supply and improving housing environments. Speakers will also discuss the emergence of the new First Nations National Housing Managers Association and the development of an Educational and Certification Program for Aboriginal Housing Managers being undertaken by AFOA.

Moderator:

Judy White, Chairperson, The National Centre for First Nations Governance and Self Government Advisor, Miawpukek First Nation, Newfoundland

Speakers:

Brenna Latimer, Youth Engagement and Emerging Leadership Officer, National Centre for First Nations Governance
Jonathan Swanson, Director of Land, Law and Governance Research, National Centre for First Nations Governance
Financial Management

Workshop S - Financial Reporting by First Nations: A Preview of CICA Recommendations and Implications for First Nations

Financial Reporting by First Nations is the title of a ground-breaking study by CICA due to be published by June 2008. This study looks at the lack of accounting standards for First Nations and makes a number of recommendations for change. This session will provide a brief overview of the project and outline the feedback received on the draft report issued in the summer of 2007. In reviewing the feedback, the Study Group realized that it was critical to point out the implications that flow from their recommendations. These implications have been added to the report. Find out what the Study Group is recommending and what the implications are for First Nations. The session will also focus on the plans of the Department of Indian & Northern Affairs and AFOA with respect to these recommendations, including building capacity in First Nations to enable them to respond to these recommendations.

Moderator:

Fred Tolmie, CAFM, CGA, Chief Operation Officer, Nisga'a First Nation, BC and Member, Financial Reporting by First Nations Study Group

Speakers:

Nola Buhr, Associate Dean, College of Commerce, University of Saskatchewan and Researcher, Financial Reporting by First Nations Study Group
Ernie Daniels, CAFM, CGA, President & Chief Operation Officer, AFOA Canada
Keith Martell, CAFM, CA, Chairman, First Nations Bank of Canada and Chairman, Financial Reporting by First Nations Study Group
Jim Quinn, Chief Financial Officer, Corporate Services, Indian and Northern Affairs Canada
Healthy Workplace

Workshop T - Integrating Aboriginal Values into Management Practices

A healthy workplace environment is a key ingredient to management and leadership success. What should be considered in creating a workplace that breathes life into the ever-evolving commitment to both respect and honour diversity? How does this commitment translate into management practices that honour Aboriginal values and lead to increased Aboriginal participation in the workforce and the economy? Is there synergy in the values of the broader organization and those of the individual? If so, what promise does this hold for a new era of collaboration and effectiveness of Aboriginal management and leadership? Two case studies will be used to facilitate the discussion of this topic.

Moderator:

Allan Munroe, CAFM, Senior Financial Advisor, Swampy Cree Tribal Council and Board Member, AFOA Canada

Speakers:

Mary Jane Loustel, Masters Student, Native Studies, Faculty of Arts, Univerisity of Manitoba and National Aboriginal Program Executive, IBM Canada Limited
Dr. Wanda Wuttunee, Director, Aboriginal Business Education Program and Department Head, Native Studies, Faculty of Arts, University of Manitoba
Managing Effectively

Workshop U - The Human Resource Management Challange: Developing and Implementing New HR Policies

Sagamok Anishnawbek is engaged in a process of Nation building that focuses on transforming the root causes of social and economic problems faced in a First Nation community. The process involves transforming the community's political and administrative systems so that they are aligned with supporting its journey towards well-being and prosperity. The result was a Community Story - a community needs assessment and situational analysis which involves 180 community members, Band staff, Chief & Council. This Story gave birth to a Ten Year Healing and Development Plan describing a framework for action and concrete steps to addressing the needs identified in the Community Story. Community representatives will take session participants through this journey.

Moderator:

Elona Arnett, CAFM, CGA, Financial Controller, Takla Lake First Nation, British Columbia

Speaker:

Jennifer Young, CMC, Senior Manager, Meyers Norris & Penny LLP
3:15 pm - 4:00 pm

Closing Plenary

Stéphane Jeannotte, a.k.a. Comicmac, was born in the Gaspé peninsula to a Micmac father and Québécoise mother, and is a member of the Gespeg community. Stéphane is a blend of two constantly evolving peoples. Drawing on traditions handed down by his father, he is Québec’s grand master of Aboriginal humour. His urban life-style and knowledge of his craft have helped him create a series of highly entertaining monologues and memorable characters, each more hilarious than the last. Stéphane’s goal is to break down the barriers of prejudice and, by presenting improbable situations on stage, encouraging us to have a good laugh along the way.

Speaker:

Stéphane Jeannotte, Aboriginal Comedian
4:00 pm - 4:15 pm

Closing Remarks

Conference Co-Chairs:

Lise Bastien and Ricky Fontaine
5:30 pm - 6:30 pm Reception
6:30 pm - 9:00 pm

Dinner, Presentation of the AFOA-Xerox Excellence in Leadership Award and CAFM Convocation

Entertainment:

Keepers of the Eastern Door

Remarks:

Mario Torre, Partner, BDO Dunwoody LLP

After Dinner Entertainment and Dance:

Gilles Sioui & the Midnight Riders
Presentations
Wednesday, February 12, 2008

Opening Plenary - Round Table: Managing the Relationship Between Elected Leaders and Senior Staff: A Team Approach

Round table discussion paper
 
Workshop A Financial Management - Financial Reporting by First Nations: A Preview of CICA Recommendations and Implications for First Nations
Nola Buhr, Associate Dean, College of Commerce, University of Saskatchewan and Researcher, Financial Reporting by First Nations Study Group
Ernie Daniels, CAFM, CGA, President & Chief Operating Officer, AFOA Canada
Gary Robertson, Director, Transfer Payments and Financial Policies, Indian and Northern Affairs Canada
 
Workshop B Governance - The Perils of the Portfolio System

 John Graham, CMC, Senior Associate, Institute on Governance
Dan Kohoko, Executive Director, Pikwàkanagàn First Nation, Ontario
 
Workshop C Beginners - Developing an Effective Remedial Management Plan: Key Strategies and Success Stories
Stephen Ashe, CAFM, Manager, Grant Thornton LLP
Bob Smith, Director of Finance, Listuguj Mi'gmaq Government, Québec
 
Workshop D Managing Effectively - Telling the Performance Story: Performance Reporting in First Nations

Grand Council Chief John Beaucage, Union of Ontario Indians
Jérôme Berthelette, Principal, Office of the Auditor General of Canada
Tammy Drew, CAFM, General Manager, Miawpukek First Nation, Newfoundland
Michael Weir, President, Audire Management Services
 
Workshop E Healthy Workplace - Nurturing Healthy Employees: Creating a Smoke-Free Workplace
Dr. Murray Kelly, Executive Director, Tobacco Healing Centre, Ontario
 
Product Information Session 1 - Adagio by Softrak
Andrew Bates, President, Softrak Systems Inc.
 
Luncheon and Presentation of the Aboriginal Youth Financial Management Conference Awards
Youth Speakers: Geordy Marshall, Eskasoni High School, Nova Scotia
Rebecca Sangwais, Grenfell High Community School, Saskatchewan
Sayla Spence, Children of the Earth High School, Manitoba
 
Plenary - Indigenous Peoples Working Together
Dr. Wilton Littlechild, Regional Chief, Assembly of First Nations and former representative of the UN Permanent Forum on Indigenous Issues
 
Workshop F Beginners - An Introduction to the Strategic Plan: The Key to Better Performance in Your Community
David John Facca, CA, Senior Manager, BDO Dunwoody LLP
 Debbie Mayer, Band Manager, Mississauga First Nation, Ontario
Joe Melisek, CMC, Senior Manager Consulting, BDO Dunwoody LLP

BDO Presentation
 
Workshop G Financial Management - Enhancing Accountability and Governance in Your Investment Strategies

Jack Jamieson, Vice President, T.E. Wealth, T.E. Investment Counsel Inc.
 Rick Morano, CAFM, CMA Chief Financial Officer, Mnjikaning First Nation, Ontario
Jim Prodger, Manager of Finance, Millbrook First Nation, Nova Scotia
 Combined presentation of all presenters
 
Workshop H Governance - Taking Control: A Made in Nunavut Solution to Managing Insurance Risk

 Peter Boucher, Project Leader and Risk Management Consultant, Nunavut Communities Insurance Program
Lynda Gunn, Chief Executive Officer, Nunavut Association of Municipalities (NAM)
Mayor Elisapee Sheutiapik, Mayor of Iqualuit, Chair of the Board, Nunavut Association of Municipalities and Chair, Nunavut Association of Municipalities Insurance Exchange
 
Workshop I Managing Effectively - Innovations in Market Housing
Chief Lance Haymond, Eagle Village First Nation, Québec
Kevin McLeod, Home Ownership Project Manager, Federation of Saskatchewan Indian Nations
 Deborah Taylor, Team Leader, First Nations Market Housing Fund, Canada Mortgage & Housing Corporation
 
Workshop J Financial Management - The Role of Property Tax in the First Nations Fiscal Framework

 Russel Harder, CGA, Comptroller, Tsawout First Nation, British Columbia AND Chief Allan Claxton, Tsawout First Nation, British Columbia
Marilyn Osecap, CAFM, Vice-Chair, First Nations Financial Management Board
 Walter Schneider, Director of Finance, First Nations Finance Authority
 Shirley Wolff, CA, Associate Partner, Assurance and Advisory, Deloitte & Touche LLP
 
Workshop K Financial Management - Financial Instruments and Capitalization of Assets
Andrew Newman, CA, Partner, Audit Public Sector Practice, KPMG Ottawa  
Product Information Session 2 - Adagio FX (for smaller bands)

Andrew Bates, President, Softrak Systems Inc.
 
Thursday, February 22, 2007
Plenary - Aboriginal Self-Government: Success Stories

Success Story One - The New Relationship Between the Cree of Eeyou Istchee and the Canadian Government
Bill Namagoose, Executive Director, Grand Council of the Crees, Québec

Success Story Two – The Journey towards Inuvialuit Self-Government
Vince Teddy, Inuvialuit Self-Government Negotiator, Northwest Territories

Success Story Three - The Relationship between the People, Elected Leaders & Management–A Key Challenge for First Nation Governance and Management: The Experience of the the Innus
Chief Gilbert Dominique, Conseil des Montagnais du Lac-Saint-Jean, Québec
 
Workshop L Financial Management - An Introduction to the Audit Committee
Jason Calla, Associate, Fiscal Realities Economists
 Russel Harder, CGA, Comptroller, Tsawout First Nation, British Columbia
 David Laidley, Chairman Emeritus, Deloitte & Touche LLP and Director, Bank of Canada
 
Workshop M Managing Effectively - Increasing Aboriginal Participation in the Technology Sector
Mary Jane Loustel, National Aboriginal Program Executive, IBM Canada Limited
 Ryan Robb, Director Business Development & IT, Treaty 7 Management Corporation
 
Workshop N Governance- The Innue Essipit First Nation: A Success Story
Marc Chaloult, Communications Consultant, Innue Essipit First Nation, Québec
Chief Denis Ross, Innue Essipit First Nation, Québec
Yvon Savard, Consultant, Innue Essipit First Nation, Québec
 
Workshop O  Managing Effectively - Comprehensive Community Planning: Key Strategies and Success Stories
Harold Tarbell, Gaspé, Tarbell & Associates
 Tracey Wade, First Nation Comprehensive Community Planning Coordinator, Atlantic Policy Congress of First Nation Chiefs
 
Workshop P Healthy Workplace - Women in Financial Leadership

 Donna Miranda Begay, Chief Executive Officer, NAVA Tech and Tribal Chairwoman, Tubatulabals of Kern Valley, California
Lynn Dee Rapp, Managing Partner, Seacrest Investment Management, South Dakota
 
Product Information Session 3 - The Certified Aboriginal Financial Manager (CAFM) – What is a CAFM and How Can You Become One?

 Randy Mayes, CAFM, Membership Coordinator, AFOA Canada
 
Luncheon - Sharing Canada’s Prosperity – A Hand Up, not a Handout

Senator Gerry St. Germain, Chair, Standing Senate Committee on Aboriginal Peoples and Co-Author, Sharing Canada’s Prosperity – A Hand Up, not a Handout
 
Workshop Q Beginners - How to Successfully Manage Your Money: A Look at Personal Financial Planning
Ismo Heikkila, CFP, National Director, Financial Education & Employer Services, T.E. Financial Consultants
 
Workshop R Governance - Circles of Excellence: Engaging Youth and Emerging Leadership in Governance
Geraldine King, Acting Director of Public Education and Communications, National Centre for First Nations Governance
 Carrie Garrow, Research Project Director II, Centre for Indigenous Law, Syracuse University
 Brenna Latimer, Youth Engagement and Emerging Leadership Officer, National Centre for First Nations Governance
Dorothy McKay, Youth representative from the Nisga’a Nation
Sarah Morales, National Centre for First Nations Governance
Jonathon Swanson, Director of Land, Law and Governance Research, National Centre for First Nations Governance
 
Workshop S Financial Management - Financial Reporting by First Nations: A Preview of CICA Recommendations and Implications for First Nations

Nola Buhr, Associate Dean, College of Commerce, University of Saskatchewan and Researcher, Financial Reporting by First Nations Study Group
Ernie Daniels, CAFM, CGA, President & Chief Operating Officer, AFOA Canada
Keith Martell, CAFM, CA, Chairman, First Nations Bank of Canada and Chairman, Financial Reporting by First Nations Study Group
 Gary Robertson, Director, Transfer Payments and Financial Policies, Indian and Northern Affairs Canada

Combined presentation for Nola Buhr and Keith Martell
 
Workshop T Healthy Workplace- Integrating Aboriginal Values into Management Practices

Mary Jane Loustel, Masters Student, Native Studies, Faculty of Arts, University of Manitoba and National Aboriginal Program Executive, IBM Canada Limited
Dr. Wanda Wuttunee, Director, Aboriginal Business Education Program and Department Head, Native Studies, Faculty of Arts, University of Manitoba
 
Workshop U Managing Effectively - The Human Resource Management Challenge: Developing and Implementing New HR Policies

 Jennifer Young, CMC, Senior Manager, Meyers Norris & Penny LLP
 
Conference Photos

Conference