OneHoop Advisory Services is thrilled to announce the inaugural National Indigenous Defence Conference (NIDC), taking place on November 28, 2024, at the National War Museum in Ottawa, Ontario. Partnering with the Department of National Defence (DND), this groundbreaking, sold-out event signifies a historic step forward in advancing Indigenous Reconciliation within Canada’s Defence sector.

This year’s theme, “Strengthening Reconciliation in Defence,” sets the stage for an Indigenous-led gathering of trailblazers, including Indigenous professionals, Defence officials, industry leaders, and academics. Together, they will explore ways to deepen collaboration, integrate Indigenous perspectives, and foster a transformative path toward meaningful reconciliation.

Distinguished Participants and Panels
The NIDC brings together a stellar lineup of speakers and panellists:

Opening Remarks

  • Her Excellency the Right Honourable Mary Simon

Meaningful Reconciliation Fireside Chat

  • Cadmus Delorme, Founding Partner & Chair, OneHoop
  • The Honourable Bill Blair, Minister of National Defence of Canada

True Reconciliation in Defence Keynote Panel

  • Jocelyn (Joe) Paul, Lieutenant-General

Indigenous Participation in the Armed Forces Keynote Panel

  • Dr. Grazia Scoppio

Indigenous Procurement – Creating Meaningful Impact Panel

  • Shannin Metatawabin, NAACA
  • Thomas Benjoe, Partner, OneHoop
  • Doug Wilson-Hodge, Director, Strategy & Business Development, General Dynamics Canada
  • Facilitator: Jada Yee, Partner, OneHoop

What Reconciliation Means to Us – An Indigenous Perspective Panel

  • Cadmus Delorme, OneHoop
  • Chris Webb, Nisittuq Corporation
  • Tabatha Bull, President & CEO, Canadian Council for Indigenous Business
  • Facilitator: Kristy Barnaby, Barnaby & Associates

 Empowering Indigenous Talent for High-Skilled Careers in Defence Panel

  • Peter Fedak, VP of Defence, KF Aerospace
  • Tanya Rexin, Indig at ATCO
  • Alain Gauthier, Marshall Defence
  • Facilitator: Jada Yee, Partner, OneHoop

Event Details

  • Date: November 28, 2024
  • Location: National War Museum (Barney Danson Theatre), Ottawa, Ontario
  • Time: 8:30 AM – 4:30 PM (Networking Reception to Follow)

Jada Yee, Managing Partner of OneHoop, highlighted the conference’s impact:

“The National Indigenous Defence Conference represents a historic moment to honour the invaluable contributions of Indigenous Peoples to the Canadian Armed Forces. It is also a vital step in shaping a future grounded in trust, respect, and shared purpose. This conference is a call to action for true Reconciliation in Defence.”

The event will feature engaging panels, fireside chats, and networking opportunities, focusing on increasing Indigenous representation in Defence, exploring impactful procurement strategies, and forging stronger partnerships between Indigenous Nations and Defence institutions.