Braiding Knowledges Canada (BKC) is pleased to welcome a new cohort of Board members. Together, these new Directors bring a wide range of lived experience, disciplinary expertise, and governance leadership that strengthens BKC’s ability to advance Reconciliation through Research.
This year’s additions reflect a strong mix of Indigenous and non-Indigenous leaders working across community-based research, Indigenous-led conservation, youth engagement, public policy, sustainability science, regenerative economies, and northern and national governance. Their collective expertise spans academia, government, not-for-profit leadership, and community-rooted practice, reinforcing BKC’s commitment to inclusive, place-based, and decolonizing research approaches.
We are especially pleased to welcome two Youth Board Members, whose perspectives are essential to shaping the future of knowledge braiding in Canada:
Megan Légaré, PhD student at McGill University, brings deep experience in participatory research, youth engagement, and Indigenous-led health and social programming.
Talon Giroux, Okimâw Awards Youth Leadership Recipient, contributes strong governance, communications, and arts-based advocacy experience rooted in Indigenous storytelling and community building.
Joining them are new Board members whose leadership spans Indigenous science, conservation, climate policy, infrastructure, finance, and northern research systems:
Kim Neale, regenerative economies futurist and founder of Manitoulin Climate Collaborative.
Dr. Myrle Ballard, Canada Research Chair in Weaving Indigenous Science and Sustainability Science.
Vicki Sahanatien, PhD, Knowledge and Research Manager, Mushkegowuk Council.
Jessus Karst, Biodiversity Policy Advisor, Métis National Council.
Shannon Flint, former Deputy Minister of Alberta Infrastructure.
Bill Borland, environmental professional and national governance leader.
Chris Paci, PhD, Vice President Research, Aurora College.
These new members join an experienced Board led by Michel Brazeau (Chair) and Lawrence Ignace (Vice-Chair), and complement the existing strengths of BKC’s governance team.
As a not-for-profit corporation governed under the Canada Not-for-profit Corporations Act, BKC’s Board of Directors provides strategic direction, oversight, and accountability in support of the organization’s mission. Together, the Board and staff are committed to cultivating trusting, reciprocal relationships and advancing research that meaningfully braids Indigenous and Western knowledge systems.
We look forward to the guidance, insight, and leadership this new Board will bring as BKC continues to support community-driven environmental research, train the next generation of leaders, and inform policy and practice across Canada.