June is Indigenous History Month, and at Aksis, we’re celebrating a legacy that’s alive and kicking! First Nations, Inuit, and Métis Peoples aren’t just shaping history, they’re driving today’s business, leadership, community, and economic growth right here in the Edmonton region and beyond. This is about power, progress, and the incredible work happening right now!
We saw that firsthand at our AGM, Business Mixer, and Showcase on May 14. From meaningful conversations and new connections to Indigenous businesses sharing their work and stories, the event was a powerful reminder of why spaces like this matter. Thank you to everyone who attended, volunteered, showcased their business, sponsored the event, and helped make it possible. Community does not happen by accident. It is built by people who continue to show up for one another.
June is also a time to celebrate both the wisdom of Elders and the accomplishments of Indigenous youth. As we recognize Seniors Week in Alberta and graduation season across the country, we are reminded of the important connections between generations. Elders carry knowledge, teachings, and lived experience that help guide our communities. Let’s hear it for the future! We’re giving a massive shout-out to all the Indigenous students and youth stepping into their next chapter. Graduates, trainees, career-starters—we see the hustle, the vision, and the determination you’re bringing. You aren’t just future leaders; you are the next wave of entrepreneurs, changemakers, and community builders today.
Ready to connect? Indigenous culture is vibrant, electric, and all around us! This month is packed with opportunities: hit up local markets, catch performances, check out art showcases, and join the Indigenous Peoples Day celebrations taking place on June 21. Take a moment this month to support Indigenous businesses and artists, and plug into the stories and communities that power this region. Thank you for being part of the growing Aksis community and helping strengthen Indigenous business and economic growth in Edmonton and beyond!
Board of Directors Update
The incredible turnout and energy at our recent AGM has provided a powerful foundation for the Board of Directors as we look toward the year ahead.
Aksis would like to extend our sincere appreciation to Jacqueline LaBoucane for her service and commitment during her time on the Aksis Board. Her contributions helped guide the organization through an important period of growth, reflection, and transition as Aksis marked its 15-year anniversary and continued strengthening its role in advancing Indigenous business and professional leadership. We thank Jacqueline for her leadership, dedication, and support of the Aksis community, and we wish her continued success in all of her future endeavours.
Aksis is also pleased to welcome Aaron Young to the Board of Directors. Aaron Young is a Métis professional and senior banking executive currently serving as Vice-President, Indigenous Financial Services. With more than 20 years of experience across retail and commercial banking, his career has focused on leading high-performing teams, managing complex portfolios, and advancing Indigenous participation within financial systems.
Aaron brings strong experience in strategic leadership, interestholder engagement, and reconciliation-focused initiatives within the financial sector, alongside a personal commitment to supporting Indigenous entrepreneurship, economic growth, and long-term community prosperity. We are excited to welcome his knowledge and leadership to the Board.
Upcoming Events
Aksis Golf Tournament
A huge thank you to TELUS for returning as the Title Sponsor of the Aksis Golf Tournament this September, along with all of the sponsors and teams who have already signed on in support.
We’re seeing strong momentum this year and sponsorship opportunities are starting to fill quickly. A limited number of sponsor placements still remain for organizations looking to connect with Indigenous businesses, professionals, entrepreneurs, and community leaders in a meaningful way. These opportunities include lunch sponsor and hole sponsors.
From on-course visibility to relationship-building opportunities throughout the day, this tournament continues to bring together an incredible network of people committed to Indigenous economic growth and community connection.
If your organization has been thinking about getting involved, now is the time to secure your spot before remaining opportunities are gone.
📅 September 4, 2026
⏰ 7:30 AM
📍 Cougar Creek Golf Course
Register or learn more: aksisyeg.ca/annual-golf-tournament/
Purchase with Purpose
Aksis is proud to support the third annual Purchase with Purpose event taking place on June 10 at Fort Edmonton Park.
This unique reverse trade show creates opportunities for Indigenous businesses and entrepreneurs to connect directly with buyers and procurement representatives from organizations looking to strengthen Indigenous partnerships and supplier relationships.
Purchase with Purpose continues to grow as an important space for relationship-building, visibility, and economic opportunity within the region. We’re honoured to support the organizing committee alongside community and corporate partners helping bring this event to life.
📅 June 10, 2026
📍 Fort Edmonton Park
We’re looking forward to a meaningful day of connection and conversations around Indigenous procurement and business growth.
TOPONA On the Road…AGAIN!
Aksis is taking TOPONA (The Original People of North America) on the road again this month with a special gathering in Spruce Grove in collaboration with the City of Spruce Grove and the Greater Parkland Chamber.
Join us on June 24 from 4:00 PM to 6:00 PM for an afternoon of connection, networking, and community conversation. The event will begin with an opening smudge ceremony led by Sky Dancer[4] .
TOPONA on the Road is an opportunity to bring Indigenous professionals, entrepreneurs, and Community members together in a welcoming and relationship-focused space. Whether you’re already part of the Aksis community or joining us for the first time, everyone is welcome to attend.
📅 June 24, 2026
⏰ 4:00 PM – 6:00 PM[5]
We look forward to gathering with community and continuing to build meaningful connections across the region.
Business Resource Centre Updates
Aksis Members Get Free Access to U OF A Roots & Relations Entrepreneurship Program
A new program is launching this September, built with Indigenous entrepreneurs in Alberta, grounded in real experiences and community-informed from the very beginning.
Developed by the University of Alberta, Roots & Relations is a fully online, non-credit microcredential that connects Indigenous identity, values, and community purpose with practical business skills. Grounded in a holistic learning model, the program reflects Indigenous knowledge systems alongside foundational areas like finance, governance, strategy, and storytelling, offering a pathway into entrepreneurship that is both practical and culturally relevant.
Check out the promotional video here.
Aksis is working alongside the University of Alberta to explore opportunities for members to engage with the program, including events, learning sessions, and potential cohort participation. This creates a meaningful pathway for members who are building, growing, or refining their business ideas to connect structured learning with community and real-world application.
Designed to be flexible and accessible, learners can move through the four-course program at their own pace, with support from Elders, Knowledge Keepers, and a circle of peers. Whether you are exploring an idea, building something on the side, or looking to strengthen your business foundation, this program offers a grounded way to move forward with both clarity and confidence.
For Aksis members and their circles, including employees, family members, and extended community, it’s completely free. Registration opens once we have gathered a cohort for the fall start date. Want to be invited to register? Fill out the Expression of Interest form below and make sure you check off that you’re an Aksis member.
https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSeTmyTS2yZ6IbhOfg1VeA71B1Ad_t6c2ZhpASigvCtpx9gsFQ/viewform
Learn more or stay connected: IEPP@ualberta.ca
The Indigenous Business Resource Centre is funded by PrairiesCan.
Stay Connected
Stay connected and keep up with our latest updates, events, and initiatives.
🌐Website: www.aksisyeg.ca
📘Facebook: Aksis Edmonton
📸Instagram: @aksisyeg
🔗LinkedIn: Aksis Edmonton
Community Events
June 5, 2026 – Elder-in-Residence, Sharing and Learning Circle with Elder Victor | 2:00PM-5:00PM | 7 Sir Winston Churchill Square
June 13-14, 2026 – Roots & Relations: Indigenous Market on 95th | Edmonton AB | Facebook | 10:00AM-6:00PM | 11728 95 Street
June 21, 2026 – 30th Anniversary Edmonton National Indigenous First Peoples Day | 10:00AM – 11:00 PM | 10233 -96 Avenue, Re/Max Field
June 21, 2026 – National Indigenous Peoples Day and Skydancer Indigenous Cultural Centre’s 4th Anniversary | 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM | 99 Campsite Road, Spruce Grove
June 21-22, 2026 – National Indigenous Peoples Day at the Fort | 10:00AM-5:00PM | Fort Edmonton Park
June 25, 2026 – Farmers Market Celebration | 5:00PM – 7:00PM | Fort Saskatchewan Farmers Market (Legacy Park area)