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OUR 2025 SPEAKERS
David Beurle
Weathering the Storm with Local and Regional Economies
David Beurle is a world-renowned expert on community, regional and
organizational economic revitalization. His work extends from the local and
regional, through to Corporate and Governmental levels with a focus on ‘future
thinking’ and long term planning. As the CEO of Future IQ, he specializes in
creating innovative future planning approaches for use in regional and
organizational settings. He pioneered the application of Scenario Planning to
regions and rural industries around the world. Having worked in the field of
regional and community planning/ revitalization for over 20 years, he is a leader
in the field of regional and organizational development.
Future IQ serves clients n North America, Europe and Australia, working across
cultures, sectors and languages in order to shape unique and effective planning
solutions.
Todd Hirsch
Navigator of Economic Disruption
Todd Hirsch is an internationally renowned economist, keynote speaker, and author whose research and work focuses on enhancing adaptability in an ever-changing world. Having had a front row seat to key issues transforming the global economy for the past 25 years, he delivers dynamic, clear-eyed talks on adaptability, creativity, and resilience to help industry and business leaders prepare for a future that is volatile, uncertain, complex, and ambiguous. An economist by training, Hirsch recently served as the Director of Energy Transition Centre, an incubator of tech startups focused on navigating our path toward net-zero carbon. Prior to this, he spent 15 years as the VP and chief economist for ATB Financial, taught economics at the University of Calgary and the University of Alberta, and worked in the research department of the Bank of Canada. In recognition of his work, Hirsch has received the Queen Elizabeth II Platinum and Diamond Jubilee Medals, the University of Alberta’s Alumni Honour Award, and an honorary degree from Mount Royal University. He has also spoken to hundreds of business audiences across the United States and Canada, and international audiences from Venezuela to Dublin. The author of four books, Hirsch’s latest, Spiders in COVID Space: Adapting During and After the Pandemic, shares the inspiring and compelling stories of businesses and not-for-profits that reinvented themselves during the pandemic.
Milt Tootoosis
Milton Tootoosis was raised on the Poundmaker Indian Reserve west of the Battlefords in the 1960’s and 1970’s. Since his university education days he has enjoyed a forty year career in management roles and continues to research and share his findings. He served a term as a TLE Trustee and as an elected Headman for the Poundmaker Cree Nation (2016-2020). He was instrumental in getting the legendary Chief Poundmaker posthumously exonerated, for alleged crimes associated with the North West Rebellion / Resistance of 1885, by Prime Minister Justin Trudeau in 2019. He owns his own consulting firm aside from serving as SREDA’s first ever Chief Economic Reconciliation Officer.
Dale Botting
.A “serial CEO,” he has led six major organizations and served as Saskatchewan's Deputy Minister and founding CEO of Enterprise and Innovation Saskatchewan. With academic distinction in Ecology, Geography, and Education, Dale now leads Botting Leadership Inc., mentoring executives across sectors.
Dr Ivar Mendez
MD, PHD, FRCSC, FACS, FCAHS
Dr. Mendez received his MD and PhD from the University of Western Ontario, where he also completed his post-graduate training in Neurosurgery. His research Fellowship was done at the Department of Medical Cell Research, University of Lund, Sweden. Dr. Mendez was the Chairman and Founding Member of the Halifax Brain Repair Centre and Head of the Division of Neurosurgery at Dalhousie University and the QEII Health Sciences Centre for more than a decade. He was the Fred H. Wigmore Professor and Provincial Head of Surgery for Saskatchewan from 2013-2022. Dr. Mendez is the Director of the Virtual Health Hub, a highly innovative facility designed to provide virtual healthcare services, currently being built at the Whitecap Dakota First Nation in Saskatchewan.
Erin Lawson
CEO SREDA
Erin is the CEO of SREDA, the economic development organization dedicated to advancing the Saskatoon Region. Appointed in June 2023, she is the first female CEO in the organization's history. Erin joined SREDA in 2015, serving most recently as the Chief Marketing Officer. Born and raised in Saskatoon, Erin holds a Bachelor of Commerce degree from the University of Saskatchewan. Under her leadership, SREDA champions the people, potential, and prosperity of Saskatoon and surrounding communities. Erin is passionate about fostering meaningful relationships and collaboratively ensuring a diverse and dynamic economy. Committed to being a steward of progress, she is dedicated to addressing community needs and creating opportunities for growth and success. Erin takes pride in leading an organization that plays a vital role in shaping Saskatoon, a City she’s proud to call home.
Christina Birch
Community Cafe
Christina Birch, founder of The Community Cafe, provides vital support to regions, communities and entrepreneurs by crafting innovative solutions to address the unique challenges they face. A rural enthusiast and community builder at heart, her passion for supporting rural communities has been evident throughout her many years of experience in community and economic development.
Erin Dean
CEO, Creative Saskatchewan
Erin is the CEO for Creative Saskatchewan. She is responsible for the overall operation of the organization, by providing strategic leadership and working closely with the provincial government, industry stakeholders, the Board of Directors, and the senior management team. Erin was Creative Saskatchewan’s first employee, as the Director of Programs, and has been heavily involved in the creation of programming right from the start. Previously, Erin was a Program Officer at the Saskatchewan Film Commission and has experience working in Business Affairs for several independent production companies. Erin obtained her BFA in Film and Video Production and BA in English at the University of Regina. Erin also holds a Certificate in Entertainment Law from the Osgoode Hall Law School. In her spare time, Erin enjoys spending time with her family, especially baking with her daughter, watching the silver screen, and game nights with friends. “At Creative Saskatchewan, we accelerate opportunities for Saskatchewan’s creative industries – we make Saskatchewan a great place to live and work.”
Remi Dufour
Director of Film Finance & Economic Reporting, Creative Saskatchewan
Remi is the Director of Film Finance and Economic Reporting for Creative Saskatchewan. He is responsible for leading the Film Department by supporting business attraction initiatives, including administering film production and development incentives, and reporting on metrics and outcomes. Remi also manages locations package delivery and location scout planning. Remi has a strong background with multinational accounting firms such as KPMG and Deloitte, as well as the Saskatchewan Ministry of Finance. Remi holds a Bachelor of Business Administration, Certificate in Economics, Certificate in Entertainment Law, and is a Chartered Professional Accountant. In his spare time, Remi is active in recreational sports, and enjoys camping, hiking, fishing, and cycling with his partner and friends. “Creative industries are essential to Saskatchewan’s economic success, and our agency creates a mechanism for which creative entrepreneurs can achieve their business goals. Our funding drives job creation, economic growth and external investment into our province while allowing local talent market their skills and works.”
Robert Hardy
Executive Director, ScreenSask
Robert Hardy is the Executive Director of ScreenSask, an association of creatives, producers, crew & stakeholders in Saskatchewan’s film and television industry. Robert has been working in Canadian television production for over 25 years as an executive, writer, producer & director focusing on documentary, lifestyle & scripted television. Among his recent credits are Pamela’s Cooking With Love (StackTV/flavour), Pamela’s Garden of Eden (HGTV/Hulu), Big Timber (History/Netflix) and Extracted (Fox/Crave). Robert helped create one of the world’s first web series in 1997 and has built an extensive network within the media industry since then. He has served as President, Canada for Fireworks Media Group, Senior Vice President Development at Entertainment One, VP Development at Paperny Entertainment, network executive with Bell Media and Senior Communications Officer with CBC-Radio Canada. Before that he was a fundraiser, communications director and advertising writer & director.
Jesse Weibe
WieGrow Capital and Consulting
Jesse, a dynamic entrepreneur and investor, founded his family office, WieGrow Capital and Consulting, in 2021 alongside his father, Doyle Wiebe. After launching Startup TNT in Saskatchewan in the same year, Jesse has led the continued expansion of the organisation across the country as well as the programming in the Agri-Food sector. His knack for fostering synergistic connections has empowered prairie startups to secure over $7 million in venture capital funding. Holding an honours degree in economics from York University, Jesse's diverse background spans from studying chemical engineering to hospitality management. His global perspective, enriched by stints in Bangladesh and London, fuels his passion for tackling challenging problems and connecting innovative minds. Jesse enjoys giving back to the community through numerous activities including the annual Art in the Garden Festival and SYPE, where he currently acts as President of the Saskatoon Chapter.
Trevor Lewington
Chief Executive Officer for Economic Development Lethbridge
Trevor Lewington is the Chief Executive Officer for Economic Development Lethbridge.
Together with a 31-member volunteer, community-based Board of Directors, Trevor is proud to work with a talented team that develops and delivers on initiatives to promote Lethbridge as an excellent place to live, work, experience, invest and do business.
With many years of executive leadership experience in the food processing industry, in addition to living the trials and tribulations of a small business owner combined with additional roles in the public sector, Trevor strives to provide a broad-based perspective and collaborative approach which will enhance initiatives that drive continued economic growth in southern Alberta.
Stephan Rutkowski
Stefan was born and raised in Germany and moved to Canada in 1997. He is the President/CEO of CAREERS: the Next Generation, a nonprofit organization connecting high school youth to potential future career pathways through industry-based work integrated learning opportunities. Before joining CAREERS, Stefan was a global director with an international engineering and consulting firm and lived and worked in several countries. He holds a Master’s degree in Environmental Geography from Germany and a Master’s degree in Responsibility and Business Practice from the U.K.
Stefan is passionate about supporting youth and young adults finding their path to successful and rewarding careers, particularly for marginalized youth. He sits on the UofA Frank Robinson Youth Academy steering committee and has been a member of various provincial tasks forces and committees on career education.
Jean-Marc Nadeau, PHD
Jean-Marc Nadeau is a retired Royal Canadian Mounted Police commissioned officer. In 2013, following a 23-year career in law enforcement, Jean-Marc embarked on a career in the municipal sector.
As SUMA's CEO, Jean-Marc is responsible for leading and managing the organization according to the strategic direction set by the Board of Directors. He is passionate about serving the interests of Saskatchewan's urban municipalities and advancing their collective vision.
Jean-Marc holds a PhD from Johnson Shoyama Graduat
Jean Michel DeVink
Jean-Michel is the Owner and Principal of Aries Environmental Consulting based out of Saskatoon, Saskatchewan. He provides clients with strategic guidance in environmental sciences, monitoring and assessment with 20 years of research and regulatory experience and technical specialization in terrestrial ecology, environmental assessment, environmental effects monitoring, and ecological risk assessment with federally-recognized expertise. In addition to over 15 years of environmental consulting experience, Jean-Michel served in a regulatory capacity with the Province of New Brunswick and Federal Governments. He has extensive experience consulting for clients in the power sector including solar, wind nuclear, hydro and coal-powered electricity generation, from the conceptual design stage through to regulatory approval, construction, operation, and decommissioning. Jean-Michel has also been an adjunct professor at the University of Saskatchewan’s School of Environment and Sustainability since 2014 where he teaches about environmental monitoring and assessment.
Lindsay Brumwell
Lindsay Brumwell is a dynamic public affairs strategist with a proven track record of 18 years, specializing in guiding enterprises through complex political, social, and regulatory challenges. Lindsay’s work spans across vital sectors such as energy, agri-value, mining, and transportation, reflecting her versatile approach to solving multifaceted issues. Lindsay knows firsthand that the key for organizations to effectively influence public policy is finding the intersection between business strategy and the public trends driving political thinking. Armed with this knowledge and know-how, she has been instrumental in steering monumental projects to success amidst the flux of external dynamics, adeptly engaging with a spectrum of stakeholders from local communities to high-ranking officials and bureaucrats. Before establishing LB Strategies, Lindsay held senior corporate, government and public relations roles with reputable companies such as CN, Federated Co-operatives Limited, BHP Canada, and the Vancouver Fraser Port Authority. In her off-time, Lindsay is usually found walking her two fluffy dogs and escaping to northern Saskatchewan or another country.
Lean Hackman-Carty
Leann has been the CEO of Economic Developers Alberta (EDA) since 2009, and specializes in community economic recovery and resiliency. Her personal and professional experience has fostered a growing interest in supporting the mental wellness of community leaders in challenging times. This includes completing economic recovery projects with 11 Alberta flood-impacted communities (2014), Fort McMurray and region wildfires (2016-17), and most recently the Jasper & region wildfires (2024-25). Her Master Your Disaster series of readiness, response and recovery guides for families, businesses and communities was launched on Amazon shortly after her work in Fort McMurray. Leann has also updated the Canadian version of the International Economic Development Council's Leadership in Times of Crisis toolkit several times to help communities prepare for and recover from economic disruptions, and brought their community economic resiliency training to Canada. In addition to being a partner at Concrete Global Ventures and Froxbox, Leann is a Certified Economic Developer through EDAC and has a BA (Political Science/Sociology), BSW (Community Development), Professional Management Certificate (Marketing) and a Certificate in Economic Development.
Marea Olafson
Marea Olafson is wheel throwing functional potter who operates Freba Pottery on highway 16 between Dafoe and Wynyard. Her highway store is operated on the honour system and is year round. Her second tourist experience is Elemental Claycation; an immersive pottery retreat where guests stay onsite in the heritage house and create in the studio for a weekend. Marea combines her 25 years of teaching art in the public system and her 22 years of pottery experience to connect though creativity. Marea has a B.Ed, B.A Studio Art, Masters Certificate in Creativity in educational practise. Her husband and two daughters support all the entrepreneurial ideas that has allowed Marea to Take her Passion and Make it happen!
Murray Gray
I was born and raised in Moosomin . My wife Jennifer and I also raised our 3 children in Moosomin. I am the sales manager at a local automotive dealership where I have been employed for 31 years. I served as a councillors for 2 terms (8 years) and was elected in November of 2024 to serve as Mayor of our fine town.
I have served on many committees over my time on council but my passion has always been Economic Development having served as Chair of the committee for the past 6 years. It brings me great satisfaction to work with local groups and businesses to help make our community and area a better place to live. It is extremely important to promote your community to others if you wish to grow and this is one of my favorite aspects of Economic Development. Many of our successes to date can be attributed to collaboration and cooperation that we have between the RM's and town's in our area.
Brendan Samida
Brendan Samida grew up in Tisdale, Saskatchewan, and is a passionate advocate for community growth and collaboration. As an active member of the Tisdale Town Council and the Economic Development Chair for Invest Tisdale, Brendan plays a role in shaping the town’s future while staying rooted in its strong Prairie values. With a focus on sustainable development and local opportunity, Brendan works closely with residents, businesses, and regional partners to attract investment, support entrepreneurship, and enhance quality of life in the community. His leadership in economic development reflects a forward-thinking approach that balances innovation with Tisdale’s unique identity and strengths. Beyond council chambers, Brendan remains deeply involved in local initiatives— commitment to service is driven by a simple but powerful belief: small towns thrive when people step up and work together. Brendan continues to be a strong, steady voice for progress in Tisdale—dedicated to building a resilient, welcoming, and vibrant community for generations to come.
Elan Buan
Senior Project Consultant - Schollie Research & Consulting
Elan Buan is an experienced researcher, strategist, and facilitator with over 25 years of work supporting economic development, workforce planning, and industry advancement across Saskatchewan and Western Canada. She owns and operates Schollie Research & Consulting, a company founded in Central Alberta in 1998, which she now operates from Humboldt, SK. Elan believes in the importance of building strong communities and strong organizations. She is an active volunteer in her community and sits on numerous boards including the newly formed North East Housing Coop, Carlton Trail College, and the Humboldt & District Chamber of Commerce. Elan is dedicated to advancing reconciliation and fostering Indigenous economic development, working to ensure First Nations and Métis communities are active partners in Saskatchewan’s economy and share in a prosperous future.
John Bailey
John Bailey is the Chief Executive Officer of the Regina Food Bank, one of Saskatchewan's largest charitable organizations. Since 2019, he has led a remarkable transformation, achieving 259% growth in service delivery while turning creating sustainable surplus that drives innovation. His approach connects industry partnerships with community impact, transitioning the organization from traditional beneficiary model to value-add partner in product development and supply chain innovation. Under his leadership, the organization launched Canada's first-of-its-kind Food Hub and earned national recognition as a Top 100 Charity in Canada three consecutive years. John holds an MBA from the University of Regina and his ICD.D designation, and serves as Chair of Food Banks Saskatchewan.
Randy Klassen
Randy Klassen, a Certified Fund Raising Executive (CFRE) and former YMCA CEO, brings over 35 years of experience in the nonprofit sector. He provides practical and ethical AI solutions to enhance fundraising, grant writing, donor stewardship, and organizational efficiency. Randy has trained numerous staff across North America on leveraging AI tools like ChatGPT, Copilot, and Gemini to boost productivity and efficiency.
Steve Kirby
Steve Kirby is Vice President of Partnerships at Localintel. With a career spanning media, finance, and professional services, Steve has held senior roles at leading firms including Nielsen, Thomson Reuters, ASX, RIMES Technologies, and Deloitte. Steve brings deep experience in strategic partnerships, key account management, and sales leadership. He holds an Honours Degree in Business and Law from the University of Plymouth in the UK.
Elyce Simpson
Elyce is President and CEO of Simpson Seeds headquartered in Moose Jaw. She earned her Marketing Diploma in Lethbridge and joined the company in 2004 after working with Agriculture Canada’s Soft Wheat breeding program. Elyce is also one of the 3rd generation of family members working in the company.
James Leier
D. James Leier is an active champion of positive development. James’ sound approach to economic development has spanned numerous projects with over 500 existing and prospective business clients on a full range of business ventures. He honed his expertise in finance, marketing, governance, and performance management in senior executive positions in the private sector. Specialties: strategy development; stakeholder engagement; market analysis; financial modelling; business planning; and investment development.
Myke Agecoutay
Myke served as Chief of the Muscowpetung Saulteaux Nation from 2016 to 2018. Prior to serving as Chief, he was an elected Band Councillor/Headman for the nation from 2012 to 2014. From 2003 to 2010 he was the elected Tribal Vice Chief of the File Hills Qu’Appelle Tribal Council (FHQTC). Myke was also instrumental in the development and administration of the QBOW Child & Family Services. He is the former Board Chairman of the following significant organizations: Silver Sage Housing Corporation, Regina Treaty Status Indian Services, All Nation Healing Hospital, and the Leading Thunderbird Lodge. Myke now serves as the company’s first CEO.
Shawn Moen
Shawn Moen is the co-Founder and CEO of Saskatoon’s 9 Mile Legacy Brewing, a nano brewery located in Riversdale. He is a proud Saskatchewanian and has law degrees from the University of Saskatchewan and Osgoode Hall Law School at York University. Prior to launching 9 Mile Legacy Brewing in 2015, Shawn practiced as a lawyer in both public and private practice and has experience in commercial law, policy development and regulatory matters. Shawn is a proud dad, an active community member with several non-profit initiatives and a 2022 Nuffield Scholar.
Shane Bellegarde
Shane Bellegarde is a member of Little Black Bear’s First Nation, located in South Eastern Saskatchewan on Treaty 4 Territory. Shane has been a performer for most of his life and is a multi-disciplinary artist with a special love of music, stories, and beadwork. Shane currently works for his home community as the Economic Development Projects Manager, and he sits on the Justice and Community Safety Planning Committees. Prior to his current role, Shane spent a decade working in the social work field as a Youth Care Worker and then as a Family Treatment Leader. Shane is passionate about working for his community, and he is especially excited about growing the food sovereignty and green energy projects within his portfolio.
Carl Neggers
Carl is currently the CEO of Forest Saskatchewan and has over 35 years of strategic policy and executive management experience. He has worked with the federal government, serving as Director General, Prairie Farm Rehabilitation Administration (PFRA). Carl has also worked in executive roles with the province of Saskatchewan including Assistant Deputy Minister, Highways and Transportation, Executive Director, Agri-Food Equity Fund and Vice President, Agriculture Credit Corporation. Carl holds a Masters in Business Administration, University of Guelph, an Associate Degree in Administration from the University of Regina and a Forest Technologist Diploma from Sir Sandford Fleming College in Ontario
Gwen Machnee
Gwen Machnee holds a Ph.D. and undergraduate degree in Microbiology, along with a master’s degree in Adult Education. Since 2012, she has been instrumental in establishing and growing the Applied Research program at Suncrest College (formerly Parkland College). In 2021, Gwen transitioned into a full-time role dedicated to Applied Research, leading to significant expansion of the program. Today, the Applied Research team supports over 32 positions annually, including four full-time research coordinators, three part-time coordinators, and numerous student researchers. The program focuses on diverse and impactful areas such as agriculture, Indigenous agriculture and education, social sciences, and business—particularly economic development within the Suncrest College region. Beyond her professional work, Gwen is actively engaged in her community, serving on several local and provincial boards. She also maintains a small flock of sheep and enjoys spinning and knitting their wool in her spare time.
Chris Guerette
Chris is the CEO of the Saskatchewan REALTORS® Association. Her leadership expertise spans from housing, real estate, corporate transformation and governance. In her previous role as CEO of the Saskatoon & Region Home Builders’ Association, her team won 2 national leadership awards in back-to-back years. Chris is also Vice-Chair of Saskatchewan Government Insurance, where she chairs the corporate transformation committee, providing governance oversight on a transformation project investing a quarter of a billion dollars into its growth potential. She is also a Director on the Board of Sanctum Care Group, Saskatchewan’s first care home for those who are unhoused living with HIV/AIDS. She is a campaign cabinet member for Saskatchewan Polytechnic’s new campus in Saskatoon, helping to raise $100 million in funds to help further economic potential through training and education.
Albert Derocher
Albert Derocher is a member of Flying Dust First Nation (FDFN) and has worked for the community for more than 25 years. A business administration graduate of Palliser Campus, Derocher has applied his skills and knowledge to advance FDFN and drive economic and job growth. He has served as General Manager of FDB Holdings (FDFN’s corporate arm) for the past six years, and was Economic Development Office for 8 years prior. Over the course of an impressive career, he has witnessed the transformation of Indigenous communities as they grow and gain inclusion into mainstream society. Albert has experience with various businesses, levels of government, non-profits and Indigenous institutions, and has shared his expertise with numerous projects representing First Nations and other groups nationwide. His experience and skills are often sought on projects seeking funding, development support and venture management advice.
Jesse Rudge
Jesse has been with Avatex for 10 years, and previously spent 7 years as a senior manager with Melcor, one of Alberta's leading real estate developers. He is responsible for commercial development teams in both Edmonton and Calgary. Jesse also spent 4 years with Avison Young, specializing in retail leasing and holds an Alberta real estate license. He is now the lead project manager for all development projects and will identify new development opportunities for Avatex in Alberta, Saskatchewan, and BC.