Owned by Indigenous Communities. Built for Indigenous Futures.

​Julian Moulton is a respected community leader and environmental advocate from Tobique First Nation. He brings over a decade of experience in Indigenous governance, conservation, and public service. A long-serving elected Band Councillor for Tobique, Julian has worked to elevate community voices in matters of natural resource management, infrastructure, and justice.

Currently the Environmental Lead for NB Power’s hydro dam restoration at Tobique, Julian integrates Traditional Knowledge with modern environmental standards to ensure sustainable outcomes. His past roles include serving as First Nations Liaison Officer with Correctional Services Canada, managing toxic site remediation projects, and mentoring at-risk youth through the Perth-Andover school system.

Julian has also contributed to species-at-risk research through Elder interviews, supported individuals facing addiction at the Woolastook Healing Lodge, and helped guide political strategy as an executive assistant with the Tobique Band administration. In 2024 and 2025, Julian ran as a provincial and federal Liberal candidate, further demonstrating his commitment to policy change and community development.

He holds an Associate of Science in Environmental Monitoring and Research through ECO Canada/BEAHR. Julian is deeply committed to the protection of land, water, and Indigenous rights, and is known for building bridges between communities and institutions.

Ralph Makokis brings more than 35 years of experience in Indigenous relations, stakeholder engagement, regulatory consultation, and community development across Canada. A survivor of the Edmonton Indian Residential School, Ralph has dedicated his career to advancing Indigenous-led initiatives in infrastructure, health, education, and employment.

Ralph is the founder of the Indigenous Building Trades Alliance and currently serves as CEO of the Saddle Lake Regional Waste Facility. His leadership has supported net-zero construction projects, environmental consultation, and large-scale Indigenous training-to-employment initiatives across sectors. He has consulted for Enbridge, Indigenous Services Canada, and numerous First Nations and industry partners.

Ralph holds a Master’s in Geography and Geology from the University of Alberta and is a Certified National Construction Safety Officer (NCSO) and GIS consultant. He currently chairs the Mamawapowin Technical Society and Clean Scene, which supports Indigenous youth and correctional reintegration.

Johnny Skenandore stands as a dynamic and results-oriented leader at the forefront of Indigenous-led sustainable economic development and global advocacy. Johnny brings a powerful blend of operational and tactical management expertise to his role, skillfully guiding strategic initiatives that empower Indigenous governance and safeguard vital lands and waters. His comprehensive understanding of business principles, grounded in his extensive college-level studies in business administration, underpins his strategic approach to organizational growth and impact.

A critical dimension of Johnny's leadership lies in his profound engagement with Energy, Global Affairs, Human Services, and Workforce Development. He champions Indigenous-led solutions that resonate on a worldwide scale, advocating for sustainable energy pathways, fostering international collaborations that elevate Indigenous voices on critical global policies, and ensuring that Human Services initiatives are culturally relevant, accessible, and responsive to community needs. Crucially, he drives Workforce Development programs that equip individuals with the skills, training, and opportunities necessary for economic self-sufficiency and long-term career success, directly contributing to community resilience and prosperity. His work extends to navigating complex geopolitical landscapes, implementing practical training programs, and fostering robust community well-being. Johnny is particularly adept at forging alliances between different tribes and regions, recognizing that unified action and shared strategies are vital for collective Indigenous advancement.

 

Johnny's unique ability to forge impactful relationships and drive growth is rooted in his extensive background in both cold and warm sales. This foundational experience has honed his exceptional communication, negotiation, and strategic outreach skills, which he now leverages to cultivate essential partnerships, attract resources, and effectively market the Turtle Island Group's transformative projects. Whether building new alliances from the ground up or nurturing existing relationships, Johnny is adept at converting vision into tangible progress across diverse sectors.

Further exemplifying his commitment to community well-being, Johnny serves as the CEO of Project Lights Out**, a vital 501(c)(3) non-profit organization. This dedication to the non-profit sector underscores his holistic approach to creating positive societal impact.

At the heart of his efforts is a commitment to fostering genuine nation-to-nation building and ensuring that Indigenous communities lead their own futures. Johnny Skenandore is instrumental in shaping a future where sustainable economic prosperity, environmental stewardship, robust social well-being, and empowering career pathways go hand-in-hand with Indigenous sovereignty and self-determination.

James Bull is a Cree leader from the Louis Bull Tribe, which is one of the Four Nations of Maskwacis and part of the Cree Nations, the largest group of First Nations in Canada. He brings more than 20 years of experience in Indigenous governance, community development, and intergovernmental negotiation, with a strong focus on youth, health, and economic self-determination.

First elected to Council in 2011 and serving two terms, James played a key role in advancing health sovereignty for his Nation. He helped secure direct federal funding for a regional health department representing the Four Nations of Maskwacis, creating a model for Indigenous-controlled services that operated independently from provincial systems.

In education, James supported the establishment of the Maskwacis Education Schools Commission by helping lay the groundwork for its formation. He also helped develop a training center to support tribe members in gaining the skills and experience needed to secure meaningful employment within their community and beyond.

James was involved in launching a successful casino project for the Louis Bull Tribe. As one of the final casino licenses granted in Alberta, the facility is strategically located in central Alberta and continues to generate sustainable employment and revenue for the community, even without being based in a major urban center.

James is a fifth-generation hereditary leader, and his older brother holds the title of Chief today. James continues to serve his tribe as an advisor and public representative, combining traditional leadership with practical governance experience.

At Turtle Island Group, James contributes deep insight into Nation-to-Nation collaboration, Indigenous-controlled service delivery, and sustainable development rooted in community priorities.

Edwin Bernard over three decades of leadership experience to his role as Business Development lead for Eastern Canada at Turtle Island Group. A former Chief and longtime Councilor for Tobique First Nation, Edwin has spent his career advancing economic development and infrastructure projects that directly benefit Indigenous communities.

He has led negotiations on complex forestry agreements and renewable energy initiatives, including wind farm development. Edwin also served as a Native Representative under Premier Bernard Lord’s government, helping shape provincial policy to better reflect the needs and voices of First Nations.

Now based in Saint John, Edwin continues to build meaningful partnerships through his small business, 1778 Trading Post, and through his work with Turtle Island Group. He connects clients and communities across the region in support of sustainable, Indigenous-led development.

Erich Bourgault is a Nakoda Nation member, military veteran, and experienced business leader specializing in Tribal economic development, federal contracting, and Indigenous-led workforce innovation. He is the founder and CEO of multiple ventures, including 7GEN HVAC, the only Indigenous-owned HVAC manufacturer in the United States, and Native Business & Workforce Solutions, based on the Northern Cheyenne Reservation in Montana. His work has focused on creating sustainable employment and registered apprenticeship programs in partnership with tribal nations, state agencies, and federal entities.

Erich has extensive experience in developing and managing Tribal 8(a) corporations, founding more than 30 such enterprises, and helping secure over 500 MW of solar energy projects worldwide. As a registered lobbyist and former staffer for U.S. Senator Vance Hartke, he brings a rare blend of political insight, technical knowledge, and cultural fluency to his work. He was instrumental in the creation of the first Tribal-owned heart research lab, Tshimakain Creek Lab of the Spokane Tribe.

His international connections span governments in Canada, the U.S., Germany, Colombia, and beyond, with additional expertise in human trafficking, MMIW advocacy, and reconciliation. Erich holds degrees in business (BSc, MBA), investment licensing, and a certification in Human Rights and Anti-Human Trafficking.

He continues to serve on the boards of ARISE Veterans Foundation, Future Without Poverty, and Guard A Heart First Nations, and is a founding member of the AFL-CIO's Indigenous outreach program, Council Fire.

A Champion of Sustainable Innovation in Indigenous Agriculture 

Tim Houseberg is a visionary leader and a tireless advocate for sustainable agriculture, particularly within Indigenous communities. His work is deeply rooted in his Indigenous Stewardship heritage and a profound respect for ancestral knowledge. With over 30 years of experience in environmental protection, economic empowerment, and agricultural development, Tim has made significant contributions to the field of sustainable agriculture. Tim's journey began in 1991 when he joined the Cherokee Nation Environmental Commission, where he played a pivotal role in developing the first Treatment as a State program for RCRA solid waste management for the U.S. Tribal government. He also co-authored the 1993 Cherokee Nation Environmental Protection Act, demonstrating his early commitment to environmental protection and legal empowerment. In 2011, Tim turned his attention to economic empowerment, establishing the Tribal Domicile, a world-class platform for commercial insurance and reinsurance services, generating new revenue streams for Tribes. He also founded Tahkox e2, a tribally 8(a)-owned corporation focused on environmental engineering natural resources protection remediation solutions earning the prestigious SBA 8(a) award under his leadership. Tim's passion for sustainable agriculture led him to co-found the Native Health Matters Foundation in 2017. Through this organization, he has a first mover like partnership trustees at the University of Arkansas the first university-backed agronomic hemp study in the U.S., partnering with Clemson University and NW Oklahoma State University. His vision for sustainable agriculture encompasses workforce development, seed genetics acquisition studies, and fostering new opportunities for Indigenous farmers. Tim’s commitment to collaboration has led him to serve as interim director of the Indigenous Production Trade Alliance, fostering collaboration among agricultural professionals, researchers, and young farmers. He is also an active member of the U.S. Hemp Roundtable and Waterkeeper, reflecting his commitment to broader environmental causes. 

Tim Houseberg's unwavering dedication and innovative approaches have earned him recognition as a key figure in the movement for sustainable agriculture. His work has left a legacy of environmental stewardship, economic empowerment, and sustainable agriculture for future generations.

Earl Hatley is a seasoned environmental consultant, organizer and advocate with over 30 years of experience supporting Indigenous communities in environmental protection, toxic site remediation and watershed restoration. A citizen of the Missisquoi Band of the Abenaki Nation, he is the co-founder of LEAD Agency, a grassroots group based in Oklahoma, and serves as the Grand Riverkeeper under the Waterkeeper Alliance.

Earl has led or advised on major Superfund investigations, including work with tribal governments on hazardous waste site assessments, water and air quality monitoring, and culturally based risk evaluations. His approach blends scientific expertise with Indigenous knowledge, and he is known for advancing environmental justice rooted in sovereignty and community leadership.

He has served on numerous state and federal advisory boards, including appointments by two Oklahoma governors to the Hazardous Waste Management Advisory Council. Earl was named a “River Hero” and received the prestigious Terry Backer Award from Waterkeeper Alliance for his lifetime contributions to river protection.

Earl holds a Master’s degree in Political Science and a Bachelor’s in Human Development, and completed advanced doctoral coursework in Environmental Science at Oklahoma State University. At Turtle Island Group, he provides technical and cultural leadership on environmental consultation and land-based restoration strategies across Turtle Island.

Chief Calvin Hyzims is a Hereditary Chief of the Eagle Clan from Gitwangak in British Columbia. He has been a Chief since 1979, following a path grounded in traditional law, governance, and intergenerational responsibility. Leadership, for Chief Hyzims, is not elected but earned through lifelong preparation - mentoring youth, safeguarding territory, and upholding integrity..

Raised in a lineage of hereditary leadership, Chief Hyzims is also connected to other clans through family ties, and is married to a matriarch of the Wolf Clan. He is known as a highly respected speaker across his territory, and for his principled leadership rooted in accountability, humility, and care for all - from the youngest newborn to the eldest person.

As a steward of his territory, he has led community action in defense of land and resources, including blockades to protect forests from industrial logging. Under his leadership and in collaboration with other Gitxsan leaders, reforestation, land use planning, and fisheries initiatives have supported both ecological health and community food security. 

Chief Hyzims is a founding leader within Turtle Island Group, working alongside other hereditary and matriarchal leaders to advance economic and environmental sovereignty. His focus includes sustainable hydroponics, and international partnerships. His vision for Turtle Island Group is rooted in protection of waters, forests, and people. 

Now in his seventies, Chief Hyzims continues to mentor and guide future leaders, always emphasizing that to walk righteously and blamelessly is the core responsibility of a chief.

Kawenniiosta Jock is a proud Kanien’kehá:ka woman from the Wolf Clan of Orenhrekó:wa, from Akwesasne. As the Creative Director of Skywomans Forever Farm, an Indigenous-led initiative, she is a dedicated land steward rematriating her ancestral lands in Schoharie Valley, NY. Through culturally rooted, regenerative agricultural practices and advanced environmental remediation, her work focuses on restoring Food Sovereignty, Personal Sovereignty, and cultural vitality. She is committed to healing the land, water, and soil, which have been heavily impacted by industrial farming and pollution from one of North America’s largest Superfund sites. This ongoing contamination has rendered the soil unable to support healthy growth, and Kawenniiosta’s efforts aim to not only restore the environment but also address the long-term impact on her Akwesasne community.
 

Prior to Co-founding Skywomans Forever Farm, Kawenniiosta served as Co-Executive Director of the Waterfall Unity Alliance, leading community-driven initiatives focused on land return, Indigenous-led environmental restoration, and cross-cultural relationship-building. Her work through both organizations reflects her deep commitment to place-based healing and Indigenous sovereignty.
 

Kawenniiosta also served for five years as a Youth Advocate within the Social Service Division of the Saint Regis Mohawk Tribe, where she worked to empower Indigenous youth. She later co-developed and led a Traditional Support Program, which provided culturally grounded, community-based support to Indigenous families, helping strengthen their connection to tradition, culture, and ancestral practices.
After her work in social services, Kawenniiosta transitioned to full-time self-employment as a fashion designer, where she built a business that celebrated Indigenous heritage through fashion and art. By blending traditional design with modern aesthetics, she provided a platform for Indigenous expression within the fashion industry.
 

At Skywomans Forever Farm, Kawenniiosta leads innovative environmental remediation efforts, integrating Indigenous Traditional Ecological Knowledge (ITEK) with modern bioremediation technologies. The farm employs practices like phytoremediation, biochar application, and native microbiota inoculation to restore ecological balance and transmute contaminants. Her work goes beyond land restoration—it’s about healing cultural connections and fostering resilience through regenerative practices rooted in ancestral wisdom.
 

In 2023, Kawenniiosta completed the Champions of Change Advanced Leadership Course with the Global Indigenous Development Trust, strengthening her leadership capacity across Turtle Island. She is also an Alliance Member of the Indigenous Production Trade Alliance (IPTA), where she works to create sustainable trade networks based on Indigenous values and economic sovereignty. Official Ambassador for Y on Earth, Cultural and Land Remediation Specialist for Native Health Matters. Kawenniiosta is dedicated to advancing environmental awareness and sustainability.
 

Beyond her environmental work, Kawenniiosta is a master seamstress, artist, and a Full Spectrum Doula, dedicated to nurturing the physical, spiritual, and cultural wellbeing of her community. As a mother of six and an alum of the Akwesasne Freedom School, as well as her children, she is deeply committed to cultural teachings and language preservation, working to reclaim ancestral lands and ensure future generations can thrive in vibrant ecosystems.
 

Through her leadership, Kawenniiosta embodies the powerful intersection of environmental stewardship, cultural revitalization, and sovereignty—working tirelessly to restore both land and spirit.

Wade Eno is a Métis entrepreneur and energy industry veteran born and raised in Central Alberta. Growing up in oil and gas country, he was immersed in a culture of hard work from an early age. He spent his teenage years hunting, trapping, and pursuing sports, with dreams of becoming a professional athlete. After a bull riding injury ended that path, Wade focused on supporting his family. By the age of 15, he was already working on oil rigs during school breaks and quickly rose through the ranks.

Over the next two decades, Wade built an international oilfield company from the ground up. He became known not just for his leadership, but for working directly alongside his crews in some of the most demanding environments on the planet. From the Arctic to the swamplands of Louisiana, from the remote Missouri River to helicopter rig operations in sensitive ecosystems, Wade combined field expertise with innovation. He designed custom rigs for extreme conditions, including land-to-marine transitions, protected species zones, and operations involving explosives. Under his leadership, his company achieved the strongest safety record in the industry.

Outside of the energy sector, Wade trained competitive racehorses and worked closely with Indigenous communities. He helped negotiate major pipeline projects in partnership with First Nations, building relationships based on trust, transparency, and shared benefit. These partnerships helped lay the foundation for Turtle Island Group.

Today, as Chairman and CEO, Wade leads with a hands-on approach grounded in real experience, mutual respect, and a belief that Indigenous and industry partners can work together to create lasting impact.