Episode 87: Denise Williams, CEO, First Nations Technology Council

Best of the WWEST

Joining us in this episode is Denise Williams, CEO of the First Nations Technology Council. From her childhood dreams of being an astronaut while raised in a logging camp, to studying at Vancouver Island University, to her acceptance at Simon Fraser University to pursue an executive MBA, Denise - as she describes - “meandered” through her education to the position she is in today, leading a non profit that connects with different levels of government, provides education and scholarship opportunities to Indigenous youth, and attempts to mend the digital divide between Indigenous communities across Canada. You will hear all about that and so much more in this interview.

At the intersection of Indigenous sovereignty, technological advancement and a rapidly expanding technology and innovation economy, Denise has the privilege of working with Indigenous peoples, governments, academics, technology futurists and social change makers to map an ecosystem that will result in fair and equitable access to the tools and education required to lead digital transformation in the 21st century. Denise leads a theory of change that aims to ensure Indigenous peoples are leading and competitive in Canada’s technology and innovation sector and in growing connected economies at home.

For a full transcription of this episode and full guest bio, click here.

Relevant Links:

• Executive MBA in Indigenous Business at Simon Fraser University
• First Nations Technology Council
• Impostor Syndrome
• Union of British Columbia Indian Chiefs
• United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples
• Vancouver Island University

Hosted by: Dr. Lesley Shannon Theme Music: “Positive and Fun” by Scott HolmesProduced by: Vanessa Hennessey

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