Meet Our Legacy Builders

Tribal Chief Arcand, of Muskeg Lake Cree Nation in Treaty Six Territory, has been a fervent advocate for Indigenous rights and cultural education in Saskatoon. Elected as Tribal Chief of Saskatoon Tribal Council (STC) in 2017, he had formerly served as its Vice-Chief since 2013. Under his leadership, STC has implemented pivotal initiatives, including food security measures during Covid-19 and the establishment of wellness centres. He identified tourism as a means to enhance the quality of life for First Nations, culminating in a partnership with Discover Saskatoon in 2023 to launch new Indigenous tourism experiences. He championed the integration of Indigenous territorial protocol in the Canadian Curling Trials and organized landmark events like the "Every Child Matters Concert" and urban pow wows, underscoring his belief that reconciliation is an ongoing commitment. Thanks to Chief Arcand, the genuine voices of his community resonate stronger than ever.

Namarta is an esteemed community and industry leader in Saskatoon, instrumental in orchestrating pivotal events and fostering partnerships. Working at the University of Saskatchewan, she has earned a reputation as a dynamo, facilitating event opportunities and securing vital support. She's been lauded with accolades such as Saskatchewan's Women of Influence by SaskBusiness Magazine, University of Saskatchewan's Arts & Science Alumni of Influence, and CBC Saskatchewan’s Future 40 in 2013. Other honours include the Community Leadership award from Leadership Saskatoon, Alumni Achievement Award, Champion of Children award, the "Living in Harmony" award, and the prestigious Saskatchewan Volunteer Medal. Notably, she was also a recipient of the Queen Elizabeth II Platinum Jubilee Medal. Beyond her awards, Namarta is an active community and business advocate, dedicated to creating a cohesive and inclusive community through her continuous involvement in various campaigns and events.

Milton Tootoosis, deeply rooted in Poundmaker Cree Nation within Treaty Six Territory, has built on the legacy of his ancestors, who were traders and key community contributors. A graduate of the First Nations University of Canada, Milton's passion for organizing was evident in his role as Athletics Director, where he entered teams into the Canadian Colleges Athletic Association and hosted several tournaments. Milton initiated renowned Indigenous hockey tournaments, transitioning from the Lawrence Weenie Cup to the Jim Neilson Invitational. In business, he played a pivotal role in launching Casino Regina and the Saskatchewan Indian Gaming Authority, significantly contributing to Saskatchewan's economy. With a decade at the Office of the Treaty Commissioner, he founded the Saskatchewan Indigenous Economic Development Network in 2012 and facilitated events like the World Indigenous Business Forum. As a former Headman, Milton revived the Chief Poundmaker Museum and witnessed Chief Poundmaker's posthumous exoneration by PM Justin Trudeau. Now, as the inaugural Chief Economic Reconciliation Officer at SREDA, Milton remains committed to economic reconciliation.

Candace is an accomplished executive with over 15 years steering sales and marketing operations for top-tier organizations. Esteemed as a transformative leader, she's notably shaped Saskatoon's global image through her role as Director, Business Development at Discover Saskatoon. There, Candace pioneered the local incentive program and introduced the innovative Cities in Synch partnership, joining forces with Destination St. John and Destination Victoria. This collaboration birthed the award-winning VIPlane initiative, where, in collaboration with WestJet, Candace animated a flight experience that showcased Saskatoon's essence for leading meeting planners. Due to her strategic efforts, Saskatoon hosted CanSpep, a prestigious business event gathering Canada's elite meeting planners. Today, Candace contributes her expertise as the Director of Marketing and Communications at the globally-acclaimed Remai Modern Art Museum in Saskatoon. Her visionary leadership and creativity continue to leave a lasting imprint.

Neil Sasakamoose, hailing from the Ahtakhkakoop Cree Nation, has dedicated his career to advancing Indigenous communities. Following a notable 15-year tenure at Battleford Agency Tribal Chiefs (BATC), where he held pivotal roles including BATC CEO and President of several divisions, Neil has consistently championed First Nations development. He's ardently supported Indigenous events and tourism, notably co-founding the Fred Sasakamoose “Chief Thunderstick” National Hockey Championship. This event, celebrated across Canada, honours the legacy of Fred Sasakamoose and his dream of First Nations Olympic participation. Neil's family, including his wife Kimberley and their four children, share his commitment, dedicating their time to elevate Saskatoon as a beacon for Indigenous sport and tourism. A testament to Neil's impact is the Freddy Sasakamoose statue at SaskTel Centre, unveiled in a grand ceremony attended by hundreds, including an executive VP from the NHL. Neil's enduring legacy ensures his father's memory shines brightly.

Shirley Isbister stands as a stalwart advocate for Métis and First Nation communities in Saskatoon, dedicating over two decades to ensuring food, shelter, and security for the vulnerable. As President of Central Urban Métis Federation Inc. (CUMFI), she has transformed its scope from a modest annual budget of $100,000 to a powerful institution with nearly $10 million, supporting housing initiatives and funding the vital Saskatoon Health Bus. Under Shirley's direction, CUMFI has offered solace during the pandemic by distributing over 90,000 lunches and 4,500 hampers. Besides her tireless work with CUMFI, she serves on the Saskatoon Police Service Indigenous Women's Advisory Circle, reinforcing her commitment to Reconciliation, MMIW, and enhanced quality of life for Indigenous populations. A driving force behind the acclaimed Métis Cultural Days, a festival that offers an immersive dive into Métis heritage, Shirley's leadership has earned nominations for the Canadian Tourism Awards consecutively.

Scott Ford, the Executive Director of SaskTel Centre, is synonymous with Saskatchewan's premier sports and entertainment events. With over three decades in the field, Scott has orchestrated some of the province's most renowned events, with expertise spanning from Facility and Event Management to Business Development and Marketing. His contributions include the creation of Saskatoon's favourites like "A Taste Of Saskatchewan" and "Rock the River," and the enduring RAM Motorsports Spectacular. A committed member of various associations, such as the International Association of Venue Managers and Canadian Live Music Association, Scott constantly seeks growth and innovation. His legacy includes serving on numerous bid and host organizing committees for high-profile events like the JUNO Awards, Canadian Country Music Association Awards, and the IIHF World Junior Hockey Championships, to name a few. Twice honoured with Tourism Saskatoon’s Leadership Award and a recipient of Saskatchewan Tourism's Builder Award, Scott's unyielding energy and commitment to Saskatoon ensure a bright future for the province's entertainment scene.

Dr. Daniel Chen serves as a distinguished Professor in the Department of Mechanical Engineering and the Division of Biomedical Engineering at the University of Saskatchewan, Canada. Spearheading the Tissue Engineering Research Group (TERG), he unites researchers across various fields from engineering to health. Their prime objective is to devise pioneering technologies for constructing scaffold-guided tissue/organ substitutes, aiming to treat injuries and combat infectious diseases. Recognized for his profound contributions, Dr. Chen has been honoured with fellowships from esteemed institutions including the Canadian Academy of Engineering (CAE), the Engineering Institute of Canada (EIC), the Canadian Society for Mechanical Engineering (CSME), and the American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME). His leadership and innovation continually propel the intersections of mechanical and biomedical engineering forward.

Dr. Vikram Misra is a distinguished expert in virology and molecular biology, holding a PhD from the University of British Columbia. His postdoctoral endeavours spanned esteemed institutions like McGill University and the Canadian National Virology Laboratory. Misra's research primarily delves into two critical areas. Firstly, he leads the University of Saskatchewan Bat Zoonoses Laboratory, aiming to understand the relationship between North American bat species and their viruses. The central hypothesis posits that certain stressors can disrupt the benign relationship between bats and their viruses, increasing the risk of these viruses jumping to other species. Secondly, Misra explores the roles of Luman (CREB3) and Zhangfei (CREBZF) in herpesvirus biology and neuronal repair. Notably, his works have been published in prominent journals, including "Nature-Sci Rep'' and "Virus Res", cementing his reputation as a foremost authority in the intersections of bat zoonoses and molecular biology.

Rob O'Connor, hailing from Saskatchewan, is a visionary leader in the realm of agricultural event management. Recognized for pioneering Western Canada's inaugural Outdoor Agriculture Trade Show and Demonstration Event, Rob has transformed the landscape of agricultural exhibitions in the region. His ingenuity has bridged the gap between innovation and tradition, offering stakeholders an immersive experience into the latest farming technologies and practices. Beyond this groundbreaking achievement, Rob furthered his legacy at the Provincial Exhibition of Manitoba, where his unmatched expertise and passion breathed new life into the event's profile. His endeavours have not only boosted local economies but have also fostered a sense of community among Western Canada's agricultural enthusiasts. An advocate for the integration of technology in agriculture, Rob’s contribution transcends beyond events; he is instrumental in reshaping how Western Canada perceives and interacts with the evolving agricultural sector.

Dr. Lidia Matei boasts a rich science background, commencing her journey in radiochemistry and advancing in the development of novel steroid analogues. Her pivotal role at the University of Sherbrooke made strides in medical imaging. Transitioning to industry, Lidia honed both technical and business skills at Best Theratronics in Ottawa. By 2016, she steered Canadian Isotope Innovations' regulatory affairs and later pursued Business education at the University of Saskatchewan. Since 2019, Lidia serves as the Corporate Business Officer at Sylvia Fedoruk Canadian Centre for Nuclear Innovation, where she seamlessly merges her technical acumen with business expertise. Notably, in 2019, alongside Professor Chary Rangacharyulu, Lidia secured Saskatoon as the host for the 11th International Conference on Isotopes in 2023. She ardently believes that Saskatoon, a burgeoning technology hub, stands to benefit immensely from such international gatherings, driving global expertise, local business growth, and fostering community values.

Shad is a seasoned professional dedicated to fostering growth and development in individuals and organizations. As Director of Eclat Lighting Initiative, Vice-Chair of CSAE Saskatchewan Network Council, and a Director with Volunteer Management Professionals of Canada, he has driven transformative strategies across North America. Shad's expertise spans facilitating business and economic plans for entities like Haida Gwaii Nation, to consulting roles with City of Regina Public Works Division and the City of Burlington. As a prolific speaker, he addresses themes from Leadership Development to High-Performance Teams. His impact is evident in his collaborations with major Canadian associations, charities, and corporations, including the Canadian Red Cross, Canadian Diabetes Association, Great-West Life Assurance Company, and the City of Regina. Saskatoon, to Shad, embodies dynamism and world-class capabilities, from its tech successes like Vendasta and CoLabs to the rich cultural heritage of Wanuskewin, making it an ideal event host location.

Kim, a partner at On Purpose Leadership Inc. and a graduate of the University of Saskatchewan, is an embodiment of diligence, purpose, and commitment. With a distinguished career history at organizations like Sask Sport and Tennis Canada, she is known for her unwavering dedication to client satisfaction. A key player in the Saskatoon Centennial Celebrations Project (2006), Kim led sub-committees and spearheaded event designs, marketing, and communication plans. She's managed pivotal events like 
Meewasin’s Cameco Riverfront Campaign, Saskatoon Olympic Torch Relay (2010), and the 125th Anniversary of the Whitecap Dakota Nation's partnership with the City of Saskatoon. Kim’s expertise encompasses event design, volunteer management, project and budget oversight, conference and trade show management, and fostering multi-agency partnerships. A sought-after professional, she’s adept at turning challenges into success, evident in her sessions at the National Fundraising Congress in Toronto.

Michael Leier is a proud Saskatoon native with deep roots in the community. An alumnus of the University of Saskatchewan, Michael graduated with an Honours Bachelor of Science degree in 2011. Passionate about continuous learning, Michael embraces every opportunity to acquire new skills and broaden his horizons through travel. Embodying the essence of a true Saskatoon resident, he delves into the heart of winter with curling and cross-country skiing. Come summer, Michael revels in lake weekends and biking excursions. For him, hosting events in Saskatoon goes beyond business or sport; it's about enhancing the lives of its residents and presenting the vibrant spirit of Saskatoon on the global stage.

With a Ph.D. in Nuclear Physics from the Indian Institute of Technology, Kanpur, Chary is a renowned Professor at the University of Saskatchewan and an Adjunct Professor at the Nelson Mandela African Institute of Science and Technology in Tanzania. As the founding chair of the STORI division of the Canadian Nuclear Society and co-chair for the 11th International Congress of Isotopes in Saskatoon, 2023, Chary's global collaborations span Japan, Russia, Germany, the U.S., and more. His research, leveraging particle accelerators and the SLOWPOKE reactor, currently revolves around innovative nuclear medical imaging and food irradiations. A visiting professor at institutions in Germany, Japan, and India, he boasts over 200 published articles, several global lectures, and two significant books. For Chary, Saskatoon, with its diverse community and multinational headquarters, is an uncharted hub, deserving of global recognition.

Bryan Kosteroski stands as a pivotal figure in the establishment of The Gordie Howe Sports Complex, a landmark undertaking in Saskatoon's sports history. While he may be viewed as the face of the project, Kosteroski emphasizes the collective efforts behind this $66 million venture, encompassing facilities for multiple sports and the Saskatoon Sports Hall of Fame. Spanning almost nine years, this venture embodies the dedication of numerous contributors, each bringing their passion and expertise to fruition. Kosteroski, with his day job as the executive director of the Agriculture Council of Saskatchewan, has consistently deflected personal accolades, underlining the importance of the community's role. His lifelong commitment to sports, be it as a player, referee, or administrator, has cemented his place in Saskatoon's sports community. As chair of the board for the Gordie Howe Sports Complex and the Friends of the Bowl Foundation, Kosteroski's leadership and humility resonate, underscoring his vision of community-driven progress.