Where Relationships Lead, Projects Follow
Date/Time: Wednesday, November 3 | 10:15am
Location: Carlton Room
Minago Critical Minerals Project Abstract: How to Build a strong working relationship between First Nation and Mining Companies – Lessons Learned
Speakers: Larson Anderson and Jim Rondeau
This presentation will explore practical lessons learned in building respectful, durable, and productive working relationships between First Nations and mining companies. Designed for mining professionals, it will highlight how early engagement, trust-building, shared decision-making, and a clear understanding of rights, responsibilities, and community priorities can support better project outcomes and long-term partnerships.
Wabun Model Abstract: Beyond the Checkbox: Why Relationships Matter More Than Process
Speakers: Doug Ramsey and Nicole Charbonneau
Across Canada, mineral development engagement has traditionally been structured around linear processes: consultation plans, regulatory timelines, project milestones, meetings, and negotiated agreements. While these tools are essential, meaningful relationships are rarely built through process alone.
Drawing on years of experience working alongside Indigenous communities, industry proponents, governments, and environmental practitioners, Nicole Charbonneau explores why relationship-centred approaches often achieve outcomes that process-driven approaches cannot.
Speakers
Larson Anderson, Norway House Cree Nation
Larson Anderson is the former Chief of Norway House Cree Nation, where he was born, grew up and has raised his own family.
Chief Anderson began his commitment and determination to helping his community when he was elected Councillor for Norway House Cree Nation, operated a local business to create employment and economic development and was hired as the Manager for the Kinosao Sipi Multiplex. Larson then became interested in pursuing his education at the University of Manitoba and successfully completed the Bachelor of Arts program.
He has extensive experience in economic, financial and business management and worked hard as Chief to build infrastructure and assets that will increase the standard of living for the children and grandchildren of NHCN.
Larson Anderson shows love and compassion as he comes from a large family of eight sisters and four brothers. He and his wife Lisa live in Norway House and have four daughters.
Jim Rondeau, Norway House Chief and Minago Critical Minerals Project
Jim Rondeau is a Senior Advisor to Norway House Chief and Council for Special Projects and the Managing Director of the Minago Critical Minerals Project.
Mr. Rondeau is a former member of the Legislative Assembly of Manitoba from 1999 to 2016 and served as a cabinet minister from 2003 to 2013. In 2004, Mr. Rondeau was promoted to a full cabinet portfolio as Minister of Industry, Economic Development and Mines. Under Mr. Rondeau’s leadership, Manitoba was recognized as the Best Jurisdiction for Mining in the World by the Fraser Institute. During his tenure two new mines were opened and one reopened in Manitoba
Jim is the President of Systematic Design and Plum Creative, two international award-winning design companies that work around the world. He also serves as vice president of ICMD, a company that provides pharmacy and medical services to First Nation and other clients in Western Canada.
Doug Ramsey
Doug Ramsey is a Registered Professional Biologist in British Columbia, with four decades of experience in the areas of environmental assessment, permitting, and indigenous consultations in the mining sector. In Manitoba, Mr. Ramsey led the environmental monitoring and permitting at the Tanco mine for 12 years and acted as the lead Technical Director for the Sherridon orphaned mine site reclamation project.
Over his career, Mr. Ramsey’s practice has included clients such as Inco, Falconbridge, Kinross, Barrick, Spanish Mountain Gold, Environment Canada, and Fisheries and Oceans Canada, as well as numerous First Nations in Manitoba as well as in Ontario, Quebec, and British Columbia.
Mr. Ramsey is regularly called upon to present scientific information to indigenous stakeholders and has made presentations on environmental and reclamation issues at various mining conferences.
Nicole Charbonneau, Sigma Wolf Solutions Inc.
Nicole Charbonneau, H.B.Sc. (cum laude), Ontario Wetland Evaluator (OWE), ADR Mediator is the Founder and Principal Consultant of Sigma Wolf Solutions Inc., an independent advisory firm specializing in mineral development, Indigenous engagement, environmental stewardship, conflict resolution, and strategic facilitation.
With deep Northern Ontario roots and a four-generation mining legacy, Nicole brings a unique perspective shaped by experience in environmental consulting, field biology, community engagement, and mineral development advisory. She previously served as Mineral Development Advisor for the Wabun Tribal Council, where she supported First Nations in consultation, relationship-building, policy development, capacity building, and strategic engagement with industry and government.
Nicole is recognized for helping bridge technical, regulatory, environmental, and community perspectives to build stronger, more respectful relationships. Her work emphasizes moving beyond transactional consultation toward long-term partnerships founded on trust, transparency, and shared understanding. Through Sigma Wolf Solutions, she continues to advise Indigenous communities, governments, and industry while delivering training, facilitation, mediation, and keynote presentations across Canada.
Her guiding philosophy, and the foundation of her work, is simple:
Independent. Insightful. Impactful.
Chair
Ed Suzuki, MMDF
Edward Suzuki is a Program Manager leading the Manitoba Mineral Development Fund (MMDF) at the Manitoba Chambers of Commerce. With a master’s in city planning from the University of Manitoba and a bachelor’s in urban studies from the University of Winnipeg, Edward combines academic insight with hands-on experience in mineral exploration and economic development.
He has overseen diverse projects across Manitoba, focusing on strategic planning, stakeholder engagement, and sustainable growth. At MMDF, he evaluates applications, allocates resources, and monitors project progress, working closely with exploration companies, government bodies, and development organizations.
Outside of work, Edward enjoys biking, hiking, photography, and exploring Canada’s natural landscapes.