MEET THE BOARD

Our Board of Directors brings decades of experience, leadership, and a shared commitment to Indigenous youth, culture, and community. With governance expertise and Indigenous knowledge, the Board ensures the Foundation’s mission thrives.

KATHLEEN WYNNE, CHAIR AND PRESIDENT

• Former Premier of Ontario with a long history in social justice

• Implemented Truth & Reconciliation Commission Calls to Action

• Increased funding for Indigenous education, housing, and health care

Supports the Foundation by: Championing reconciliation and building partnerships to expand Indigenous youth opportunities

CHIEF CHRIS SKEAD, DIRECTOR

• Elected Chief of Wauzhushk Onigum Nation (2018–present)

• University of Manitoba BBA; former teacher and social worker

• Advocate for Indigenous rights, language revitalization, and community development

Supports the Foundation by: Guiding cultural integrity and connecting programs to community needs

CHIEF DARLENE COMEGAN, DIRECTOR

• Chief of Northwest Angle #33 First Nation (2014–present)

• Focuses on economic growth, social services, and infrastructure

• Recognized by Canada’s Top 40 Under 40 (2016) and Queen’s Diamond Jubilee Medal

Supports the Foundation by: Ensuring programs reflect community values and amplify Indigenous voices

DAVID DE LAUNAY, PAST CHAIR AND SECRETARY

• Former Ontario Deputy Minister of Aboriginal Affairs and Northern Development

• Board experience across arts, education, and economic development organizations

• Skilled in partnerships with First Nations communities and governance

Supports the Foundation by: Advising on strategic growth and operational excellence

DAVID ZIMMER, Past President and Director

• Former Ontario Minister of Indigenous Relations and Reconciliation (2013–2018)

• Longest-serving Minister responsible for Indigenous Relations; four-term Ontario Legislature member

• Introduced Elder Abuse Awareness Day and public safety measures

Supports the Foundation by: Providing governance expertise and strategic oversight rooted in Indigenous relationships

DAVID PAUL, DIRECTOR

STEPHEN CHAN, DIRECTOR

• Entrepreneur and founder of DapaSoft Inc.; current CEO of VisFuture Inc

• Advocate for reconciliation and Indigenous community empowerment

Supports the Foundation by: Leveraging business expertise to strengthen programs and partnerships

GRANT WEDGE, DIRECTOR

• Lawyer, senior executive, and mediator with 45+ years of experience

• Worked with governments, Indigenous communities, and organizations across Canada

• Involved in Treaty #3, Kelowna Accord, and Aboriginal Legal Services

Supports the Foundation by: Bringing legal, governance, and reconciliation expertise to the Board

ZAHRA BHANJI, DIRECTOR

• Assistant Dean at University of Toronto Scarborough; 25+ years in higher education, international development, and non-profits

• Advocates for Indigenous knowledge inclusion in curriculum design

Supports the Foundation by: Advancing education, knowledge, and cultural representation for youth