INDIGENOUS LEADER

This person is making a positive impact on indigenous business and culture in Kamloops and area. Helping spread awareness and growing relationships within Kamloops with indigenous businesses and organizations.

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Tk’emlúps te Secwépemc member

Jordann Hazelwood is an employment and training coordinator for the Stk’emlupsemc te Secwépemc Nation (representing the Tk’emlúps and Skeetchestn First Nations).

She was honoured for breaking down barriers and advancing Indigenous people in the mining and oil and gas sector,

“My passion, first of all, is to create space for our people, being progressive and advancing roles in industry,” Hazelwood said. “Ultimately, that really does play a role in having our Indigenous people access employability, but also it trickles down to building healthy communities.”

Hazelwood, who recently moderated a panel on Indigenous women leading the way in the workforce at the Forward Summit in Calgary, said she was shocked and honoured to learn she would be recognized.

“It’s certainly a privilege to be able to do the work I do and serve my Indigenous community and Kamloops as a whole,” Hazelwood said.

“It’s always nice to be able to connect with others who are passionate about going out of their way to make a positive impact.”

As nominator Joy King said of Hazelwood: “She is an amazing example of what hard work and dedication can do in our community, helping other Indigenous people find employment throughout our community.”