Front cover

Indigenous Reconciliation
and Connectivity Report

Summer Sister Hummingbird∙ Tsunalhduz Sulhtus Shen
The Hummingbird/Tsunalhduz
signifes beauty and love. You seethem in the height of summer/shen.

2023 Edition

Johnny Ketlo III, Nadleh Whut’enSummer Sister Hummingbird∙Tsunalhduz Sulhtus Shen
Johnny Ketlo III,
Nadleh Whut’en

To learn more, visit
telus.com/reconciliationor scan the QR code withyour mobile device.
TELUS Corporation
510 West Georgia Street
Vancouver, British Columbia
Canada V6B 0M3
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Fort Nelson, British Columbia

Land
acknowledgement
The TELUS team acknowledges that our work spans many territories and treaty areas
and we are grateful for the traditional Knowledge Keepers and Elders who are with us
today, those who have gone before us and the youth that inspire us. We recognize theland and the benefts it provides all of us, as an act of reconciliation, as recommended
by the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s (TRC) 94 Calls to Action and gratitude
to those whose territory we reside on, work on, or are visiting.

Photography, unless otherwise credited, wasprovided by Ryan Dickie, Fort Nelson First Nation.

C

Artwork unless otherwise credited, wasprovided by Johnny Ketlo III, Nadleh Whut’en.

Great Grandfather Grizzly ∙ Shas Atsiyan Cho
Johnny Kelto III, Nadleh Whut’en1

A message from the artist
Dear reader,
I hope this letter finds you in good spirits andThere is only one race in the Creator’s eyes, the

TELUS’
commitment
to artistic
integrity

health. My name is Johnny Ketlo, I am a member

human race, it just so happens we all look different.

of the Frog Clan. A Dakelh man from the Nadleh

Preserving and promoting my cultural traditions

Whut’en First Nation. A Dreamer, Dayun Sbalyan,

is of utmost importance to me, and I consider it

Eagle Dreamer. My grandfather gave me thea privilege to be able to carry forward the artistic

artist’s name of “Shunultus” which means strong

legacy of the Dakelh people. By collaborating

We are committed to supporting the artistic practices

music. First and foremost, I wish to express mywith TELUS and other like-minded individuals,of Indigenous Peoples, while acknowledging theheartfelt gratitude for the honour of working with

I earnestly hope that our collective efforts towards

historic role organizations have played in the

TELUS on such a meaningful endeavor that aims

reconciliation will ignite others, encouraging themmisappropriation of Indigenous art and culture. We

to shine a bright light on reconciliation.

to embrace and perpetuate not only their own

have an obligation and responsibility to ensure that

cultural heritage, but to heal and bond as family,

TELUS’ use of Indigenous art in our digital and physicalno matter station or race.

spaces is respectful of Indigenous artists. Accordingly,

Throughout my journey, I have realized that
achieving true reconciliation lies in the powerof genuine dialogue encouraging us to bridge

I firmly believe that unity makes us stronger, andthe gaps and foster understanding between

together, we can make a profound impact incommunities, to see each other’s world. The art

shaping a more harmonious and compassionate

shared in this report, carefully curated, emphasizes

world. As we walk this path of reconciliation

the essence of seeing each other more clearly. The

together, I remain committed to fostering a sense

vision of these beloved creatures, representing theof togetherness and understanding that goes

Dakelh Nation, are not merely artistic expressions

beyond old ways into new heights.

but revered knowledge bearers, bearing thewe collaborated with Johnny Ketlo III, Nadleh Whut’en,on the intent, context and manner of the art showcasedin this document to ensure Kelto retains full intellectual
property and control over his work. We are excited toshare his work with you, alongside photography from
Ryan Dickie, Fort Nelson First Nation. We encourage
you to learn more about how you can appropriately
support Indigenous artists.

wisdom and knowledge that has the potential tobridge gaps and bring us together, even as family.

Sincerely,
Johnny Ketlo III
2

My Frog Child ∙ Dulkwah S’keh
Johnny Kelto III, Nadleh Whut’en

Meziadin Lake Provincial Park

3

Message fromour executive leadership
It has been another year of meaningful progress on the path of reconciliation

whereby we will assist Indigenous youth to access post-secondary education.

at TELUS. Guided by our Indigenous Reconciliation Action Plan and expanded

Moreover, we continue to support the amplification of Indigenous voices, ensuring

Advisory Council, we continue to support Indigenous-led solutions and successtheir stories and perspectives are heard, and providing opportunities for everyone

through our world-leading connectivity and innovative community programs,

to learn about our shared history. By way of just one example, the digital Witness

helping pave the way for lasting change.

Blanket has reached over 300,000 students and educators and is on track to

Working alongside Indigenous leaders, organizations and governments, TELUS

achieve one-million website views since its launch in 2022.

is supporting communities in ways that meet their unique needs and enabling

At TELUS, we understand there can be no reconciliation without truth, which is

positive health, education, economic and cultural outcomes across the country.

why we are committed to upholding our corporate responsibility of ensuring all

The inspiring stories shared throughout this report demonstrate reconciliationteam members – from our Board of Directors to those on the frontline – have thein action, illuminating what is possible through purposeful relationships built

opportunity to learn our shared history. We are proud that over 50 per cent of theon trust and reciprocity.

TELUS team has completed the Truth and Reconciliation e-learning program,This summer, a first-of-its-kind partnership was established between TELUS
and Nisga’a̱ Nation in Northwest B.C., which is the result of 18 months of listening,developed with Indigenous advocate and educator, Chastity Davis-Alphonse,
within the first two months of its introduction.

learning and relationship building. This innovative collaboration will enable

Thank you for your interest in TELUS’ reconciliation journey. We are proud of

the Nation with access to TELUS’ high-speed wireless coverage on their own

the meaningful progress we have made to-date, and we will continue to pushnetwork, empowering the Nation to determine its own success. In addition toourselves, our teams and our peers to do better in alignment with Indigenous-

increasing access to our award-winning TELUS PureFibre® and 5G networks in

led frameworks of reconciliation. It is our sincere hope that openly sharing ourrural and remote areas, we remain deeply committed to assisting communities

progress inspires others to join us on the path together.

in their hour of need, restoring services as quickly as possible and supporting
recovery efforts on the ground during increasingly common climate events,
such as wildfires and flooding.
Our team’s passion for creating stronger, more inclusive communities is further
exemplified through our enhanced $2 million Indigenous Communities Fund, ourcontributions to Indigenous-led initiatives, such as the Moose Hide Campaign, andour partnership with Indspire to support Indigenous students on their educational
journeys – including through our $50 million TELUS Student Bursary Fund,
4

Darren Entwistle

Tony GeheranPresident and Chief Executive Officer
Proud member of the TELUS team

Executive Vice-president and Chief Operations
Officer, Proud member of the TELUS team

TELUS Sky lit up orange for National Day for Truth and Reconciliation

TELUS’ Reconciliationcommitment
Our vision

Implementation

Through our world-leading network technology, underpinned by

TELUS is committed to continuing to learn, evolve and grow to ensure

our team’s long standing passion for creating stronger, healthier

we are aligned with Indigenous-led reconciliation frameworks. We arecommunities, TELUS is committed to supporting the goals of

devoted to ongoing engagement with Indigenous leaders, Elders, andIndigenous Peoples. We believe that connectivity, in concert with

communities in the areas we serve. Our engagement will continue tohuman compassion and ingenuity, is intricately linked to positive

inform the implementation of TELUS’ Indigenous Reconciliation

economic, social, health and community outcomes; and the benefits

Action Plan (IRAP).

of the digital economy increase for all Canadians when Indigenous
communities are connected to the innovative capabilities andopportunities inherent in broadband infrastructure.

Our commitment
TELUS is committed to progressing the path of reconciliation ina deeply meaningful way, in partnership with Indigenous Peoples andis dedicated to fulfilling our role and responsibilities in this regard.
TELUS believes fervently in understanding shared history, developing,and deepening meaningful, productive relationships with Indigenous
Peoples, including First Nations, Métis and Inuit communities, and taking
accountability for constructive actions moving forward.
We recognize that reciprocity is the foundation of respectful relations
which only occurs within the framework of inclusive dialogue. We
understand it is our corporate responsibility to ensure TELUS isa nurturing space for Indigenous team members.
Lower Post, British Columbia

All TELUS team members are responsible for promoting the beliefs
and principles outlined in this commitment statement. As corporate andsocial purpose leaders, it is our responsibility to use our voice, businessand relationships to encourage reconciliation across Canada.

Our actions are informed by:∙ Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s 10 Principles
of Reconciliation and the 94 Calls to Action∙ Reclaiming Power and Place: The Final Report of the National
Inquiry into Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women andGirls 231 Calls for Justice∙ United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous
Peoples (UNDRIP)∙ Progressive Aboriginal Relations certification process
through the Canadian Council of Aboriginal Business
7

TELUS’ principles for
Indigenous engagement
TELUS recognizes Aboriginal Title and Rights and Treaty
Rights*, as well as the unique culture and governance ofindividual Indigenous nations and communities. We arecommitted to engaging Indigenous Peoples in a mannerthat respects the rights set out in the United Nations
Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples. TELUS
acknowledges Indigenous Peoples’ inherent right to self-

Guiding principles for TELUS’ engagementwith Indigenous Peoples and Governments∙ TELUS understands that Indigenous Peoples of Canada
are comprised of nations and governments who haveconstitutionally protected Aboriginal Title and Rights*∙ TELUS actively seeks to collaborate with Indigenous

governance, supports processes and agreements thatgovernments; listening, learning, and integrating theirreflect this authority and the role of Indigenous Peoples

perspectives throughout the development, design,

as stewards of their lands.

and implementation of projects impacting Indigenous

TELUS understands that meaningful engagement andreconciliation can only happen within the framework

Peoples and lands∙ TELUS works closely with communities to ensureof inclusive dialogue, collaboration and partnershipwe carry out our activities and relations in a culturallywith Indigenous Peoples. This framework informs ourappropriate and environmentally sensitive manner

actions and our goal is to build long-term, meaningful* The term Aboriginal Title and Rights derives from legally defined rights

and collaborative relationships with Indigenous
governments and customers.

protected under section 35 of the Constitution Act 1982. While Indigenous
is now in more common use than Aboriginal to speak of First Nation, Inuitand Métis peoples of Canada, when referring to legal rights the term
Aboriginal title and rights is used. Aboriginal is defined in the Constitution
Act 1982 Section 35 (2) as Indian, Inuit and Métis peoples of Canada.
First Nation is generally used now instead of Indian.

Top row (L-R): Eric Nordgren, Elsie Kipp, Marissa Nobauer. Lower row(L-R): Yale Councillor Janita Peters-Kriegl, Minister of Citizen Services,
Lisa Beare, Chawathil Drummer David Gutierrez, Shazia Zeb Sobani,
Anne Zhong, Chawathil Chief Norman Florence.

8

Johnny Kelto III, Nadleh Whut’en

Cultural Responsivenessand Relationships

TELUS’ four
guiding pillars
Our strategy weaves together our strategic intent,
values and priorities with four guiding pillars

Connectivity

Season of the Salmon ∙ Talook Ooza

Summer Sister Hummingbird∙ Tsunalhduz Sulhtus Shen

Listen, learn, and understandhow TELUS can meet unique

Collaborate with Indigenous governments

relationships. Ensureand organizations to deliver advanced

culturally responsive

broadband connectivity to Indigenous

customer experience forcommunities within our serving area.

Indigenous customers.

Enabling Social
Outcomes

Economic
Reconciliation

Ancestor Eagle ∙ Sbalyan Dusneke

Walking Caribou ∙ Whudzih Nuya

Underpinned by our team’s passion for creating

Support sustainable economic participationstronger, healthier communities, develop andand growth for Indigenous Peoples

needs and build meaningful

where TELUS believes we can enable the greatest
outcomes as informed by Indigenous Peoples.
Underpinning these pillars is the integration ofIndigenous Ways of Knowing and ethical space
into TELUS. Ensuring that Indigenous Ways ofKnowing and ethical spaces are embedded
into the fabric of our commitment toreconciliation is a priority.

expand programs that look beyond
Fort Nelson, British Columbia

connectivity to enable communities

through involvement
in TELUS’ business.

for longer-term prosperity
and success.

11Commitment

TargetTimeline

2023 Update

Continue to seek Indigenous-led partners
for Mobility for Good for Indigenous Womenat Risk to expand to other areas of Canada

2023-2024

In collaboration with 40 Indigenous organizations across
B.C., Alberta and Ontario, +1,000 individuals at risk were
supported with free smartphones and rate plans in 2023.

UPDATED TARGET: In partnership with
Indigenous-led organizations acrossCanada, support 1,400 individuals
in-year through Mobility for Good
for Indigenous Women at Risk

2024

Engage with Indigenous communities
and organizations to explore
partnerships that reflect Indigenous
practices and ways of being

Provide funding to Indigenous-led social,health and community programs throughthe Indigenous Communities Fund

AnnualIncrease partnerships with Indigenous
communities and organizations
as part of TELUS Days of Giving

Minimum 5 per cent of corporate volunteer
opportunities support Indigenous Peoples,
communities and organizations

AnnualIn 2023, 7 per cent of corporate volunteer opportunities supported
Indigenous Peoples, communities and organizations. Key
activities included Moose Hide Campaign, National Indigenous
History Month and National Day for Truth & Reconciliation.

Ensure inclusion of Indigenous
Peoples in TELUS social purpose
programs by proactively engaging
Indigenous communities
and organizations

Minimum of 5 per cent of TELUS
Social Purpose programs annually
support Indigenous Peoples andcommunities (Mobility for Good,
Health for Good, Kits for Kids)

AnnualAs a result of an increased focus on Indigenous-specific programs,
such as Mobility for Good for Indigenous Women at Risk, TELUS
social purpose programs collectively exceeded the target of
5 per cent supporting Indigenous Peoples. An updated target
has been set to reflect the intentional approach to improving
access at a program level.

UPDATED TARGET: TELUS Health
Mobile Clinics provide care at locations
specialized in serving Indigenous
Peoples, using a culturally sensitive
and trauma-informed approach2024

In 2023, over 60 per cent of TELUS Health Mobile Clinics
provided services at locations that specialize in serving
Indigenous Peoples.

Enabling Social Outcomes

TELUS’ Indigenous
Reconciliation Action Plan

Respond to Indigenous-led pathways
for meaningful change by using ourworld-leading technology to enable
access and expand partnerships
with Indigenous organizations

Progress update

Two years into our first five-year IRAP, TELUS continues to work diligently

the plan. As new goals are set and others are enhanced, team members

towards our commitments acknowledging both our responsibility and ouractively prioritize the insights from Indigenous voices including the Indigenous

capacity to advance reconciliation. TELUS teams demonstrate their dedication

Advisory Council, community partners, and customers. We are pleased toas many goals have been achieved through respectful and intentional

share our results from our second year of implementing TELUS’ first IRAP.

teamwork with the rest remaining on track for completion according toCommitment

TargetTimeline

2023 Update

Additional 20 Indigenous lands enabledwith broadband connectivity

2022-2023

Between 2022-2023, +120 Indigenous lands (40 Indigenous
communities) were enabled with advanced broadband connectivity.

Connectivity
Year-over-year expansion of ouradvanced broadband and mobility
networks to Indigenous communities
within our serving areas by leveraging
public-private partnership

12

UPDATED TARGET: Expand
TELUS broadband networks toat least 20 Indigenous lands

2025

An updated target has been set for 2025 that reflects thecommitment to year-over-year expansion of connectivity.
Read more: Connectivity

The target has been updated with a specific metric thatquantifies the tangible impact of the program.
Read more: TELUS Mobility for GoodTo provide further support to Indigenous communities
and organizations, the TELUS Indigenous Communities
Fund doubled its commitment to $2M through 2028.
Read more: Indigenous Communities Fund

13

Commitment

TargetTimeline

Commitment

2023 Update

Work with Indigenous educators to
expand cultural understanding andensure learning opportunities andresources are available and accessible

Increase understanding of our sharedhistory from an Indigenous lens bydriving completion of the Truth &Reconciliation learning across TELUS

AnnualElevate Indigenous voices throughongoing support of TELUS
Eagles, a Resource Group for
Indigenous team members

TELUS Eagles will launch an Indigenous
peer-to-peer program to provide
increased support for Indigenous
team member success at TELUS

2023

UPDATED TARGET: Grow Pathways
program offerings so all Indigenous teammembers have the opportunity to thrive
at TELUS

Annual300K students and educators reached

2023

Following the digitization of the Witness Blanket in 2022, 700K
students and educators were reached and WitnessBlanket.ca
has had over 945K views, tracking to achieve 1M views. In 2023,
virtual reality development has been initiated with a “Call forsounds” to support the experience.

In 2023, over 17K TELUS team members completed theTruth & Reconciliation learning program.

2024

Following the achievement of the 2023 goals, updated
targets have been set for next year.

Read more: Learning about our shared history

1M views of website
Explore virtual reality andaugmented reality options
UPDATED TARGETS: 300K students
and educators reached in-year

Looking ahead, the aim is to continuously improve theprogram year over year.
Read more: TELUS Eagles

Launch of digital Witness Blanket
virtual reality

14

2023 Update

7 per cent or more of all TELUS funded local
content productions are Indigenous-led

Annual18 per cent of TELUS Local Content productions were
Indigenous-led.

$1M in funding to Indigenous content
creators across Alberta and B.C.

2024

UPDATED TARGET: 10 per cent or more of
production budget allocated to Indigenous
content creators across Alberta and B.C.

2024

Achieve Progressive AboriginalRelations (PAR) certification bydemonstrating sustained leadershipin our commitment to working
with Indigenous businesses and toprosperity in Indigenous communities

Become Bronze certified bydeveloping policies and fulfilling targets
associated with PAR reporting

2025

Explore partnerships with Indigenousled organizations to support increased
Indigenous students in Technology

Establish partnership, enhance training andstart ideation of collaborative solution

2024

In partnership with the Indigenous Mentorship Network of
Ontario, TELUS Digital developed and delivered a digitalskills workshop at the 2023 Summer Institute. Following thisinitial collaboration, opportunities to evolve to other topics
and expand to more audiences are being explored.

Work to enhance participationof Indigenous businesses within
our projects and operations to
support year over year increasein Indigenous supplier spend

Increase spend with Indigenousowned businesses by 10 per cent2023

UPDATED TARGET: Deliver a minimum ofquarterly sessions to foster new Indigenous
business partnerships and gather feedback
from current Indigenous suppliers

AnnualFrom 2021 to 2023, 300 per cent increase in spend with Indigenous
businesses on TELUS network projects and operations.
Additionally, we are working with our vendors to collectively
contribute to supporting economic development initiatives
in Indigenous communities.

Seek to learn and incorporate physicalacknowledgements of Indigenous
territories at key TELUS spaces

2023

UPDATED TARGET: Incorporate Indigenous
placemaking within TELUS spaces inalignment with renovation projects

AnnualEnsure Indigenous content creators
have equitable access to TELUS Local
Content programs that support andamplify local authentic storytelling

TELUS Eagles launched Pathways, a mentorship and careerdevelopment program designed by TELUS Indigenous teammembers for Indigenous team members.

Read more: Digital Witness Blanket

500K views of website and virtual
reality in-year

Provide culturally responsive
experiences for Indigenous
team members and customers
in TELUS spaces

Timeline

Cultural Responsiveness and Relationships (Continued)

Cultural Responsiveness and Relationships

Partner with Carey Newman and
the Canadian Museum for Human
Rights (CMHR) to expand accessto the Witness Blanket and amplify
the educational components ofthe digital Witness Blanket

TargetIndigenous placemaking is being incorporated into theoffice renovations at TELUS House Burnaby and TELUS
Harbour (Toronto).

In 2023, $1.2M of funding was provided to Indigenous
content creators.
The target has been updated following current
program success.
Read more: TELUS Local Content

Economic Reconciliation

The updated target reflects the evolution to
ongoing program implementation.

In 2023, TELUS achieved Phase Two of the PAR Committed level
and will be submitting Phase Three Committed level by year end.
In alignment with adjustments to the certification process andtimelines, TELUS will be completing the PAR Certified submission
in 2025.

The target has been updated to reflect the collaborative
approach to supporting Indigenous business growth.
Read more: Where sustainability, ingenuity and reciprocity meet

Continued on next page

Continued on next page

15

Commitment

TargetTimeline

2023 Update

Economic Reconciliation (Continued)
Explore partnerships with
Indigenous communities to develop
solutions that reflect and support
Indigenous practices and values

Seek to establish meaningful partnerships
with five Indigenous communities
or organizations to collaborate on
sustainable agricultural solutions

2024

Began exploring partnership opportunities that utilise internetof things solutions, such as TELUS Animal Record Management
and Decisive Farming by TELUS Agriculture, to support
Indigenous priorities.
Read more: Cultivating solutions through the land
and technology

Develop new functionality for agriculture
solutions that reflect Indigenous
practices, values and culture2026

Dependency on outcomes from previous target.

Invest in early stage (Seed and SeriesA) Indigenous-owned for-profit
companies that are driving financial
and social/environmental outcomesto make the world a better place

Invest 7.5 per cent of TELUS Pollinator Fundfor Good in Indigenous-owned companies

2026

To date, 6 per cent of Pollinator Fund ($6M) has been invested
in Indigenous-owned companies.

Enhance the accountability of all teammembers and leaders at TELUS tosupport retention and recruitment
of Indigenous team members

Implement strategic initiatives of Indigenous
Employment Strategy to support
recruitment, retention, career development,
cultural safety and continuous feedback

Read more: TELUS Pollinator Fund for Good

Annual“Indigenous businesses are too frequently confronted with barriers toconnectivity that non-Indigenous organizations do not have to face.
According to the 2022 National Indigenous Economic Strategy, reconciliation
can only be realized when Indigenous Peoples are meaningfully engaged
in Canada’s economy. Bridging the digital divide plays a significant rolein enabling Indigenous businesses to participate equally in new sectorsof economic growth. Connectivity in Indigenous communities is a crucial
step toward reconciliation, since it increases opportunities for Indigenous
economic engagement. We appreciate that TELUS recognizes this andis taking steps to help address these challenges.”

Tabatha Bull
President and CEO,
Canadian Council for
Aboriginal Business

Completed first year of implementing Indigenous Employment
Strategy. Initiatives included new Indigenous wellness benefits
coverage for traditional healing practices, expanded oncampus outreach to Indigenous students, Indspire partnershipto deliver student scholarships, as well as tailored employer
branding to resonate with Indigenous candidates.
Read more: Investing in Indigenous students

NEW COMMITMENT:
Incorporate Indigenous perspectives
into TELUS’ data ethics strategy

16

NEW TARGET: Host workshops toincorporate Indigenous perspectives into
responsible artificial intelligence at TELUS

2024

NEW TARGET: Partner with atleast two Indigenous organizations
on building data governance

AnnualAgainst a backdrop of rapid advancements in artificial intelligence(AI) technology and data legislation, the TELUS Data & Trust
Office began engaging with Indigenous partners to define
responsible and ethical use of AI from an Indigenous lens.

17Message from the TELUS
Indigenous Advisory Co-chairs
We are thrilled to stand tall as Canada’s first technology company

as an equalizer - opening the doors for Indigenous communities

to make a public commitment to reconciliation. As the co-chairs

to engage in the digital economy, access education and trainingof the TELUS Indigenous Advisory Council, we have thefrom home, and maintain a connection to their culture. We areresponsibility to ensure that TELUS is listening and accountablepassionate about creating employment opportunities that foster

to the wisdom, guidance and insights that we receive frommulti-generational benefits, helping to move the needle towards

our incredible advisors.

economic reconciliation.

By bringing diverse Indigenous voices into every discussion, we

At TELUS, our focus is on tangible outcomes, which requires

aim to ensure that Indigenous Peoples and Indigenous Ways ofsetting clear targets and reviewing results. It is our immense

Knowing inform our reconciliation journey. This ongoing dialogue

pleasure to share the progress of TELUS’ reconciliation

enables TELUS to continuously learn and course-correct ourcommitments, underscoring our unwavering dedication toaction plan as necessary. We extend our gratitude to the advisors

reconciliation. Our greatest hope is that our journey will create

for their invaluable insights and ongoing contributions.

a ripple effect across Canada and will encourage businesses,

We recognize the immense and transformative role technology
plays in advancing economic reconciliation. Connectivity stands

Top row (L-R): Victoria LaBillois, Sean Willy (Co-chair), Shazia Zeb Sobani(Co-chair). Lower row (L-R): Shaun Soonias, Taylor Behn-Tsakoza, James
Delorme, Shani Gwin, Luc Lainé, and Carol Anne Hilton. Not pictured:
Dr. Kim van der Woerd, Clint Davis, and Magnolia Perron

18

leaders and individuals to find meaningful ways to commit toand progress their own journeys towards reconciliation.

Shazia Zeb Sobani

Sean Willy

VP Customer Network
Planning, Proud memberof the TELUS team

TELUS Board of Directors,
President and Chief Executive Officer
of Des Nedhe Development, Memberof North Slave Métis AllianceMeet the council members
In 2021, TELUS committed to establishing an Indigenous Advisory Council made up of Indigenous
leaders and subject matter experts, to guide and advise on the implementation of TELUS’reconciliation actions. At the start of 2023, we celebrated six advisors joining the original
four council members to support the evolution and execution of TELUS’ IRAP.

Carol Anne Hilton

James Delorme

Dr. Kim van der Woerd

Luc Lainé

Hesquiaht Nation, B.C.

‘Namgis̱ ̱ First Nation, B.C.

Klahoose First Nation,
B.C. and Cowessess
First Nation, SK

Clint Davis, ICD.D

Inuk from Nunatsiavut, NL“As a young person and a northerner, I see myself bringing my experiences
to the council and moving forward the commitments in the Action Plan.
An organization like TELUS, which has such a big reach and impact on the
lives of Canadians, I believe the efforts being made to commit and actively
work towards reconciling with Indigenous People and communities aregoing to ripple out. TELUS continues to lead in the areas of economic
reconciliation and connecting Indigenous communities to broadband.
I see TELUS setting the gold standard for working with Indigenous
People and modeling true reconciliation in action.”

Fort Nelson First
Nation, B.C.

Huron-Wendat Nation, QC

Magnolia Perron

Shani Gwin

Shaun Soonias

Taylor Behn-Tsakoza

Victoria LaBillois

Hear more from theadvisory council

Mohawks of the Bayof Quinte, ON“I am happy to sit on the TELUS Indigenous Advisory Council because
I strongly believe that thriving Indigenous economies need leadingedge infrastructure, notably connectivity. The importance ofconnectivity is captured in the National Indigenous Economic
Strategy for Canada released in 2022.”20

Taylor BehnTsakoza

Métis Nation of Alberta
and Michel Callihoo Nation, AB

Red Pheasant CreeNation, SK

Victoria LaBillois
Listuguj Mi’gmaq
Nation, QC

Fort Nelson First
Nation, B.C.

Listuguj Mi’gmaq
Nation, QC

21

Connectivity

Summer Sister Hummingbird∙ Tsunalhduz Sulhtus ShenCollaborate with Indigenous governments andorganizations to deliver advanced broadband
connectivity to Indigenous communities
within our serving area.

The Hummingbird/Tsunalhduz
signifies beauty and love.
You see them in the heightof summer/shen.
Johnny Ketlo III,
Nadleh Whut’en22

Sikanni Chief River, British Columbia

Enabling access toworld leading technology
TELUS PureFibre offers a globally unmatchedincreasingly faster connections. In very remoteand enhancing the networks of the future. We

wireline infrastructure that ensures access to theareas our wireless LTE coverage (wHSIA) isare fortunate to collaborate with Indigenous

digital tools to drive improved health, social, andrevolutionizing the use of our network, providing

governments and partners, as well as federal,

economic outcomes. One of the most advanced

high-speed internet access where internet

provincial, and municipal governments as weand capable broadband network technologies

access has not historically been possible.

work towards a future where all Indigenous

available today, our gigabit-enabled TELUS
PureFibre investment is equipped to keep
pace with ever-evolving technology, offering

While access to the latest technology is important,meaningful partnerships are essential to building

communities have the connectivity needed
to support their individualized goals.

One aspiring archaeologist
will go far while staying near
Based in T’exelc (Williams Lake First Nation),connectivity has helped Whitney Alphonse-Manuelto reach her goals and attain her university degree
online to become an archeologist. With co-funding
from the government of B.C. and in partnership withT’exelc, TELUS enabled PureFibre to the community
in 2020. Access to high-speed internet has equipped
Alphonse-Manuel to stay at home keeping her rooted
to the land and connected to her community all
while achieving her career goals.
24“I’ve been able to become successful inschool and I was able to be educated rightat home with support from my community,from my family. A lot of Indigenous People
have to leave their communities to be
educated and it takes so much out of them.
So to be able to be educated within ourcommunities is so important.”

Whitney
Alphonse-ManuelWilliams Lake First Nation

Watch
Whitney’s
story

240

Connectivity in Ekuanitshit:
Stepping into the future

Indigenous communities serviced
by TELUS

Winds of change are blowing in the Ekuanitshitwith co-funding from the Government of Quebec and incommunity, in northern Quebec. After years of waiting, thepartnership with Ekuanitshit Innu Council, this is a major

small community of around 650 people fnally has accessstep forward in the area’s development, as it opens ato TELUS PureFibre, the backbone of the TELUS network.

world of possibilities and progress for its residents.

TELUS has also deployed its 5G network. Completed“Ultra high speed internet is a powerful tool forsharing our collective memory and millennial
knowledge of Nitassinan. It encourages
the entrepreneurial spirit and promotes thedevelopment of our local economy and local
tourism. It also offers access to better virtual
health care and adapted educational services,which allow our youth to continue theireducation while remaining anchoredin our Innu community.”

26

Jean-Charles
Piétacho
Chief of the Ekuanitshit
Innu Council+21 K

premises connected to our
PureFibre network+89 K

people living in Indigenous communities
with access to our advanced
broadband networks$38M

CAPEX dollars committed to expand
our advanced broadband networks to
20 Indigenous lands by year end 2025,
inclusive of the co-funding partnerships
we initiated105

Indigenous communities connected
to our PureFibre network

$112M

248

Indigenous lands* connected
to our PureFibre network

70

CAPEX dollars invested connecting
communities to our TELUS PureFibre
network, inclusive of the co-funding
partnerships we initiatedIndigenous communities connected
through funding partnerships to ouradvanced broadband networks**

86%

197

of homes, small businesses andgovernment buildings on Indigenous
lands enabled with TELUS’ advanced
broadband connectivity

Indigenous communities (608
Indigenous lands) connected to ouradvanced broadband networks

575

790

Indigenous lands connectedto the transformative powerof 5G across Canada

Indigenous lands covered with
our reliable 4G LTE mobility
across Canada*Reserves, treaty lands and self-governing lands** “advanced broadband networks/connectivity” is defined as 50/10+ internet speed (including PureFibre) and wHSIA

27

How Jolena is building community,
one business at a time
Given Jolena Hope’s close-knit upbringing, it comes as no surprisewith the Province of B.C. through the Connecting British Columbiathat for her, family-run business has a depth of meaning.

program, making access to economic development easier in rural“I’m personal with my staff as I see them as family. Families

and Indigenous communities.

take care of families. I believe that if they are treated like family,

For Hope, access to a fast and reliable network is critical to growing

they’re going to want the best for the business,” she said.

her business interests. Visitors to her RV park, which includes a mix

From the age of nine, Hope’s parents involved her in supporting theirvarious entrepreneurial endeavours. At that time it was about raisinglambs. They later converted their barn into a landing station forcommercial fishing.
By 15, she was testing sockeye and pink salmon runs on the Fraser
River – part of the ongoing monitoring work undertaken by her homeof year-round and seasonal sites, value high-speed connectivity tostay in touch with friends and family, do business and contact
doctors, schools and perform other daily activities.
Hope herself relies on the power of TELUS PureFibre to order ingoods and services, as well as process credit cards and enable
debit transactions.

community, Yale First Nation. These test fisheries provide essential“With PureFibre, I can download very large files and participate

in-season information for the management of salmon.

in virtual meetings without a hitch,” she said.

A few years later she began supporting her dad to fulfill a contract for“Connectivity is also important for the salmon sampling,” Hopevegetation management and, at 21, she opened the Hope River General

added. “If there is a fish that I sample with a disease or a parasite,

Store and RV Park. It’s located two hours outside of Vancouver towards

I can send the information and images right away to the Pacificthe Fraser Canyon, along Highway 1.

Salmon Commission.”“I call it the one-stop shop because we’ve got fuel, a liquor store,

Yale First Nation’s geographic layout is as varied as Hope’s businessdeli, restaurant, gift shop, lotto and RV park,” she said. “We do ourendeavors. Their territory begins in the Fraser Valley and extends into

in-house baking and smoked salmon. The salmon is from my work

the Fraser Canyon, much of which is rocky riverfront and mountainside.

as a fish sampler, so I know all about the fish I prepare.”

One third of Yale First Nation’s 176 members live on reserve, spread out

Family and a sense of community is the through-line in her varied career
to date. Adding strength and reliability to that connection is the worldleading TELUS PureFibre network, which was completed in partnership
Jolena Hopein four distinct and separate residential communities. To bring PureFibre
to Yale First Nation is to level a rocky playing field of access andconnectivity, providing essential tools for success.

29

Tallcree First Nation
welcomes digital age“TELUS PureFibre and wireless connectivity will help with our
future school of innovation and how we can connect to theoutside world virtually so our kids can be educated without
having to leave our communities, their families and support
networks which we hope will improve student success.”

Chief Rupert Meneen
Tallcree First Nation

At northern Alberta’s Tallcree First Nation, Elders and othermembers of the community are getting one-on-one instruction
on how to use the internet.
It’s the first step in preparing the 650-nation-member homes
and local businesses for high-speed digital access, following apartnership between Tallcree Tribal Government, TELUS and theGovernments of Canada and Alberta. It will see world-leading
wireless and TELUS PureFibre connectivity enabled in Northand South Tallcree. These two reserves are located roughly 600
kilometres north of Edmonton, or 45 and 80 kilometres
southeast of the hamlet Fort Vermillion.

connectivity projects.
“We’re feeling very privileged in getting this project up and off
connectivity helps us to connect to the outside world. It helps

ground” during the build, bridging language and cultural barriers andon many different fronts – giving us access to everythingoffering an extra level of technological support, particularly to Elders

from education to mental health to safety.”or those living alone.

The transformation can’t come fast enough for community members.

“The most important thing is we’re trying to get people to reach out“The communities at times are cut off from the outside world.
When the infrastructure fails, it fails en masse,” Cardinal said.
“This is concerning for emergency situations.”

Fund. Additionally, wireless connectivity will be enabledthrough co-funding from the Canadian Radio-television andTelecommunications Commission’s Broadband Fund.
Jarvis Meneen

have a lifeline to call for help, one that also offers fast and reliable access to
education, telehealth and mental health resources outside the community.
Cardinal says health and public works staff will act as “boots on thein Northern Alberta, Tallcree First Nation will be connected to
PureFibre in 2024 through co-funding with TELUS and theOnce the TELUS network build is complete, community members will

the ground,” said Band Manager Michael Cardinal. “Wireless

After years of advocating for access to reliable connectivity

federal Universal Broadband Fund and the Alberta Broadband

30This kind of partnership is crucial to the viability of rural

For decades, many Elders living in isolated areas have had no way tocommunicate with the outside world. Those who own mobile devices
don’t have nearby or reliable networks to connect them to. Prior to theto us if they need us,” he said. “We’re not just dumping technology
at their front doorstep and running away.”
Cardinal shared that Tallcree is eager for positive change. Tallcree has been
advocating for improved connectivity for more than a decade and “thesekinds of projects go a great distance to recognizing First Nations
are valid and important.”

TELUS upgrade, communication services in South Tallcree could beknocked out for days during heavy downpours or electrical storms.
31

Bridging education, tradition
and tech in Fort McKay
They say that timing is everything, and for students

literacy that will help them navigate the future.

and staff at the new Elsie Fabian School, the timing

Teachers employ smart boards in planning andbeauty of this regalia in motion as they watch

worked out perfectly.

delivering their lessons, and they have increased

online videos of traditional dancers.

Located on the Fort McKay First Nation reserve,
about 420 kilometres north of Edmonton, the school

access to development opportunities now thatthey can attend virtual conferences.

ribbon skirts and shirts, and then observe theAfter just the first week of land-based learning,
Gullion said inquiries began pouring in from theoffers a specialized curriculum that incorporates“I was really amazed. We haven’t had abroader community. Parents and adults wanted

Dene and Cree language and culture, as well asteacher come to us and say that they areto participate, too.

land-based activities for students from pre-K

having a slow connection,” said Gullion, noting

to Grade 9.

that network issues had typically been the norm

Elsie Fabian celebrated its grand opening inin this remote region of northern Alberta.

In response, two language teachers now offer
virtual adult classes in the evenings, while facilitating
community-wide contests to promote engagement

September 2022, welcoming students to a bright,

Before the school’s construction, nearly half of theand learning at home. The contest focuses on amodern facility fully equipped with reliable, high-school-aged children on the reserve had to travel

phrase of the week in both Dene and Cree thatspeed internet services – available for the first time on

45 minutes to attend school in Fort McMurray. Now,

is shared in classrooms, on social media and on

Nation lands thanks to a recent TELUS PureFibre build.

these young learners can stay closer to home andthe local radio, encouraging parents to learn

benefit from a curriculum rooted in their culture

alongside their children.

“TELUS really worked to have it ready forwhen the school opened,” said Education
Director Christine Gullion.
Today, consistent network speeds allow students
to use tablets for schoolwork, acquiring the digitaland traditions.
Students measure beaver pelts to learn about

In many ways, the new school has helped knit
the community together. “We are able to post

circumference, and they learn to scale fish andannouncements to keep the community

repurpose those scales to make art. They create

engaged in the school and their children’s
education. The communication piece is
so important for the school,” said Gullion.

In 2023, our co-funding partnerships expanded
broadband connectivity to 31 Indigenous
communities and 100 lands.
32

The TELUS PureFibre build was co-funded by the
Regional Municipality of Wood Buffalo. This $21M
investment will connect three First Nations, four
Métis communities and six rural municipalities
by the end of 2023.
Elsie Fabian School

A journey of equity and empowerment
Ruth Williams is getting ready to celebrate an incredible milestone – theWilliams recalled the initial consultation processes of the first PTT builds,

connection of every First Nation government office in British Columbia towhere all parties involved, including ANTCO, TELUS and the province,

affordable and reliable high-speed internet is anticipated to be reality within

learned valuable lessons about what reconciliation really means. Williams

the next year. Started in 2009 by the All Nations Trust Company (ANTCO),

summarized the underlying lesson as, “‘Nothing about us without

the Pathways to Technology (PTT) project has been steadily working tous.’ If we are going to connect a community, even though we are

expand connectivity for Indigenous communities throughout the province,

paying for it, the community has to make the decision.” Williams

and has partnered with TELUS on many of these initiatives since 2011.

acknowledged that it was vital to have TELUS senior management involved

As former CEO of ANTCO and manager of PTT, Williams is proud tosee the organization closing in on its goal, but she acknowledges thisin developing the strategy at the onset and appreciates that each personat the table had an equal voice.

achievement will only mark the beginning of the next chapter of

For Williams, this is what upholds the PTT project success. Indigenous

connecting all Indigenous communities in B.C.

representatives must be welcomed to the table as advisors and strategic

While all First Nation governments are expected to be brought online within
the next year, gaps will still persist for Indigenous Peoples who do not live
near or adjacent to government office lands. These kinds of disparities

decision-makers, because it’s only through meaningful relationshipbuilding between communities, governments and industry, that we will
be able to ensure equitable access to this critical connectivity.

can be devastating for communities. Williams cited one example where

TELUS is proud to partner with ANTCO and the PTT project, and continues

children missed two years’ worth of education during the pandemic

to learn from Williams and her team as they lead by example through their

because the Nation had no internet access and was unfortunately notdedicated efforts to preserve the sovereignty of the First Nations they serve.

able to keep a teacher on the reserve. “With the type of technology
we have today, this should not occur,” she said.
For Williams, ensuring that all Indigenous Peoples have affordable accessto broadband connectivity is a question of equity. Connectivity opens new
pathways to education, healthcare, career opportunities and improved
wellbeing for Indigenous communities, not just today but for generations
to come. “As bandwidth usage is expected to evolve, it’s also
critical that we future-proof this network infrastructure so thatit can scale up as needed,” Williams added.

Ruth Williams

Since 2011, TELUS has proudly
partnered with ANTCO toconnect over 60 communities
to our network through $26M
in co-funded investments.
35

Enabling Social
Outcomes
Ancestor Eagle∙ Sbalyan Dusneke
In Carrier Dene culture, the Eagle/Sbalyan
is a good omen meaning the ancestors arewatching over you and the Creator is directing
your paths. Say ”Thank you”/“Snachailya” andstep onward in your journey with confidence
and guidance in the Great Spirit.
Johnny Ketlo III,
Nadleh Whut’en

Toad River, British Columbia

36

Underpinned by our team’s passion for creating stronger,
healthier communities, develop and expand programs
that look beyond connectivity to enable communities
for longer-term prosperity and success.

Leading with purpose
Social capitalism is at the core of who we are and what we do. To us, doing well inbusiness and doing good in our communities are mutually inclusive. Driven by our
passionate social purpose to connect all citizens for good, our deeply meaningful andenduring philosophy to Give Where We Live has inspired TELUS, our team members
and retirees to donate more than $1.6B to charitable and community organizationsand volunteer 2.2M days of volunteering since 2000.
As a global leader in social capitalism, we are committed to leveraging our innovativetechnology and human ingenuity to drive social change and enable meaningful
outcomes. It’s more than just our commitment to give where we live to strengthen
our communities; it’s how we leverage our world-leading technology capabilities
into meaningful services that drives innovation and supports the transformation of
essential social models, such as patient-centred health care, universal education,and environmental stewardship.

38

Tuchodi Lake, British Columbia

TELUS
Friendly Future
Foundation
By funding 500+ charities each year that provide education and healthprograms, TELUS Friendly Future Foundation® is helping more than
2M youth in communities across Canada reach their full potential.

Our key granting programs include:∙ TELUS Canadian Community Boards grants of up to $20K to local
youth charities in communities across the country.

∙ Innovation Grants funding of up to $200K for breakthrough ideas
in youth mental health or environmental education and climate
action programs.

Opening doors
for Indigenous youth
to pursue careers in healthcare
When Sheri was young, she recalls not seeing many people who looked
like her working in healthcare professions. As an Indigenous youth,
she found this to be quite discouraging.
The Pan Am Clinic Foundation’s Medical Careers Exploration Program(MCEP) is a one-of-a-kind initiative that gives Indigenous high school
students in Winnipeg the opportunity to explore and experience a diverse
range of healthcare careers while working alongside medical professionals.
“MCEP has led me to a path where I want to work in the field ofmental health,” said Sheri. “Without this opportunity, I don’t thinkI’d be where I am today.”In 2022, TELUS Future Friendly
Foundation supported 70
Indigenous youth programswith $1M of funding.
Toad River, British Columbia

With a grant from the TELUS Manitoba and Saskatchewan Community
Board, alongside TELUS Friendly Future Foundation, the Pan Am Clinic
Foundation is expanding MCEP to even more Grade 10-12 Indigenous
students. MCEP is providing Indigenous youth across the Winnipeg
school district with hands-on experience and mentorship from healthcare
professionals through the program’s unique curriculum, while working
towards attaining their high school diploma.

The Pan Am Clinic Foundation

41

Providing language resources
to the Mi’kmaq community

Eka shakuelem
performing arts workshops
United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO)

Fifteen youth from Mashteuiatsh, Wemotaci, Lac-Simon, Wendake andDue to the geographical and systemic barriers experienced by many

encourages people throughout the world to participate in making space

Senneterre communities in Quebec are exploring the performing arts andIndigenous youth living in communities, few have the opportunity tofor the preservation, revitalization and support of Indigenous languages

related professions through the Eka shakuelem program supported by thediscover urban cultural events. Participants attended five international

worldwide. While language statistics remain difficult to measure, the number

TELUS Montreal Community Board and TELUS Friendly Future Foundation.

shows, performed workshops designed by Indigenous artists and metof people in Nova Scotia who identify as Mi’kmaq speaking has been on the
decline. Statistics Canada estimated that in 2016, only 55 per cent of the
Mi’kmaq population spoke the language.

Developed in collaboration with Menuentakuan Productions, this programis dedicated to Indigenous youth who are pursuing their studies, seeking
employment, or thinking about their career path and already have a strong

Mawita’mk Society’s “Talking Planet Mi’kmaw” program is a new language

interest in art. It offers talented youth, aged 18 to 25 years, a week ofresource created for young children and their families to bring Indigenous

contemporary performing arts workshops.

languages into the home through digital animation and storytelling. This pilot
project, which was funded through the TELUS Atlantic Canada Community

with community leaders, such as Melissa Mollen Dupuis, a well-known
figure in Indigenous struggles and issues, as well as creators, performers,
technical directors and managers. Additionally, organizers broughtparticipants together in virtual talking circles in advance to help establish
relationships, share interests and create a sense of belonging in a safe
and caring environment.
Vivien Gaumand

Board and TELUS Friendly Future Foundation,brings engaging content in the dialect directly into
the homes of families. It plays a key role in helping
younger community members learn what it means tobe Mi’kmaw by re-discovering through the language
the history of where they come from and what their
Learn Mi’kmaw
with usancestors did before colonization.

“Ta’n tujiw L’nui’sin, maliamt na kkjijaqmij / When you
are speaking Mi’kmaq, it is a part of your spirit.”
42

Magit Poulette
Residential School
Survivor

43

Indigenous
Communities Fund
Craig R. Smith,Growing community support
for land-based learning

Chief Executive Officer,
T’lesqox

Together, the Chief Jacob Bearspaw Memorial School and Cicolmanias,

Launched in 2021, the TELUS Indigenous Communities
Fund provides flexible grant funding of up to $50K for
Indigenous-led social, health and community programs.
Since launching, the fund has donated more than $300K
to Indigenous-led initiatives.

Funding is available for projects focusedon, but not limited to:
∙
∙
∙
∙
∙

Health, mental health and well-being
Access to education and resources
Community building and enhancement
Language and cultural revitalization
Inter-community sharing of cultural stories

To learn more and to see the complete list of ICF
recipients, please visit telus.com/indigeneousfund.

“I would like to thank TELUS for the
grant towards our equine program.
This grant helped expand our programwith more equipment, more horses,
and a wagon with all the tack needed.
Our program is one of the best in thearea and the TELUS grant allowed us
to expand our offerings and be able
to support more clients and help us
move down this healing journey.”

with the support of the TELUS Indigenous Communities Fund, havesuccessfully launched a two-phased program aimed at addressing
environmental sustainability gaps in their community.
The first phase helped support the expansion and maintenance of the
Eden Valley Stoney Nakoda Community Garden. These updates havemade the community garden a hub for the community to gather andlearn alongside one another.
By increasing the capacity of the community garden, and as part of thesecond phase, these partners were able to successfully initiate the Zero
Waste Ambassador program. Through this program, children, youth,
Elders and other community members engaged in a variety of activities
and workshops. This program provided participants with land-basedlearning opportunities and concrete actions to reduce and manage
waste and to learn Traditional Ecological Knowledge.
Thanks to the expansion of the Eden Valley Stoney Nakoda Community

In 2023, TELUS doubled its commitment to the Indigenous Communities
Fund with an increased investment from $1M to $2M through 2028.
44

Garden and environmental education and tools provided, the communityof Eden Valley has come together to tackle environmental issues,
empowering younger generations, building resilience and foodsecurity to foster the wellbeing of the community.
Chief Jacob Bearspaw School45

Exploring the healing
power of horses“Horses are healers that absorb pain. Because of them we see
happiness again,” shared Clinton Palmantier, program coordinator of
the Tl’esqox Equine Assisted Learning and Equine Therapy program.
This program uses the traditional medicine of horses, in combination withcounselling, to help with a multitude of mental and wellness issues, including
post-traumatic stress disorder and intergenerational trauma. The program
promotes mental and physical well-being and fosters an inclusive, safe space
where youth can become more confident in taking on leadership roles andbuilding strong relational ties.
Thanks to the TELUS Indigenous Communities Fund, the Equine Assisted
Learning and Equine therapy program has successfully expanded into afull-time program that supports over 30 youth and their families. The funding
played a crucial role in helping the program access the necessary equipment
to enhance its capacity to support more participants. The growth of the
program has increased accessibility of mental health support for children,
parents and grandparents in Tl’esqox as well as extending support toneighbouring communities.

46

The Tl’esqox (Toosey Band)Supporting communities
during disaster and recovery
At TELUS we are committed to the safety and wellbeing of theconnectivity for Boston Bar First Nation and Boothroyd First Nation

communities we serve from coast to coast to coast. From the ice

evacuees to stay in touch with their loved ones, TELUS teamstorms in eastern Canada in early spring to the relentless summer

members jumped into action.

wildfire season that has devastated many parts of the country,
TELUS is on the ground, supporting relief efforts in numerous
ways. From delivering critical supplies, such as food and batteries
to the Kanien’kehá:ka (Mohawk), to loaning Gift Lake Métis Nation
generators during wildfire-induced outages, to enabling wifi

Our efforts are not possible without the readiness, communicationand leadership of the communities we partner with as they worked
to mobilize the support they needed from the onset of the crisisand throughout recovery. We are committed to being there forthe communities where we live, work and serve.

“Our community experienced a devastating wildfire in May this year [2023] that
required all 993 residents of the Peavine Métis Settlement to evacuate. What
TELUS did was absolutely wonderful, especially for the evacuees and those on thefrontlines of the fires. Fleet trucks delivered supplies to our two evacuation centres
which helped us immensely. Some of the product also went to the Settlement office
and was used as supply for the frontline workers, including members of the army
and firefighters. It was a relief that we didn’t have to worry about sending someone
to collect these essential products for these purposes during an intense time.

Lynn Smith
Regional Planning
Coordinator of Peavine
Métis Settlement

The follow up from TELUS afterward was fabulous, as well. The process for getting
connected and up and running after was easy. We didn’t have to worry too muchabout it at all as we knew TELUS was taking care of it. All I had to do was makeone quick call and someone showed up to help us.”48

Gail Ovelson and Lorna St. Thomas, Proud members of the TELUS teamConnecting for Good
Bridging digital and socio-economic divides by connecting

Health for Good™, Mobility for Good®, Internet for Good®

everyone in ways that will benefit their lives is a core pillar ofand Tech for Good™ — we are leveraging our technology to

our social purpose. At TELUS, we know technology can beensure underserved citizens are connected to the people,

a powerful equalizer, but only if everyone has access to it.

information, and opportunities that matter most in our

Through our Connecting for Good® programs — including

increasingly digital society.

“There’s real power in giving people access to life-changing
resources. Having dedicated my life to supporting Indigenous
Peoples and promoting justice and decolonization, I haveseen how culturally appropriate programs can move
marginalised people into safer environments.”

Kim Rumley
Acting Director of
Court Services at theNative Courtworker andCounselling Associationof British Columbia

9.3K

youth aging out of care were able to stayconnected with family, support networks andaccess resources through Mobility for Good

97%

of Mobility for Good participants say the
program makes it easier to stay connected
to friends, family and support works

96%

Native Courtworker andCounselling Associationof British Columbia

of Internet for Good participants said theprogram allows them to stay connected tothe people and resources that matter most

218K

13.3K

Elders and seniors are staying connected
to family and friends through Mobility for
Good for Seniors

40

Indigenous organizations are distributing
phones to Indigenous women at risk across
British Columbia, Alberta, Ontario andQuebec through our Mobility for Good for
Indigenous Women at Risk program

52.9K

in-need families, elders and seniors, people
living with disabilities and youth aging out
of foster care enrolled in our Internet forGood program, benefiting from low-costhigh-speed internet and access to a
low-cost refurbished computer

2.3K

Indigenous women at risk of or surviving
violence have access to a lifeline throughour Mobility for Good for Indigenous
Women at Risk program62%

of TELUS Health for Good partners provide
services at locations specifically serving
Indigenous Peoples, with several offering
cultural services from their mobile healthclinics including Elder blessings, ceremonies
and smudgings (all TELUS Health for Good
clinics support Indigenous Peoples, providing
care when and where they need it).

Watch Healthfor Goodin action

people living in Canada have been positively
impacted by our Internet and Mobility for
Good programs to date51

Mobility for Good
for Indigenous Women at Risk
Developed in partnership with Indigenous-led organizations, Mobility
for Good for Indigenous Women at Risk provides free smartphones
and talk, text and data plans to Indigenous women at risk of or surviving
violence. By working to improve safety through connectivity for
Indigenous women, TELUS is responding to the 231 Calls for Justiceas established by Reclaiming Power and Place: The Final Reporton Missing Murdered and Indigenous Women.
Hear from our partners at Prince George Friendship
Centre, B.C. Association of Aboriginal Friendship
Centres and Native Courtworker and Counselling“Tzeachten First Nation and TELUS have developed a strong relationshipgrounded in reconciliation over the last several years which has had many
positive impacts for our people and community. Tzeachten was one of thesix communities who are fortunate to benefit from the Connecting for Good
program that TELUS has administered. Internet connectivity is a barrier to many
Indigenous families both on and off reserve; this program has alleviated thisbarrier for many of our Tzeachten families. TELUS’ commitment to reconciliation
is something that Tzeachten First Nation has been honoured to be a part ofand we look forward to continuing our path towards reconciliation together.”

Chief
Derek Epp
Ch’iyaqtel(Tzeachten First
Nation)Association of B.C. share their perspective on how
this program provides a critical lifeline and gift ofhope to those it supports.

“The TELUS Mobility for Good program saves lives. As an Indigenous
person, when I see TELUS reaching out to help the most vulnerable
in our community, there isn’t any other act of reconciliation in mymind that’s greater than that. It makes my heart soar.”52

Find out more

Barb Ward
Burkitt
Executive Director,
Prince George
Native Friendship
CentreInternet for Good for
Indigenous communities
In 2023, TELUS launched a pilot project with six Indigenous
governments to help ensure in-need community members
are both aware of and able to easily access Internet for Good.
TELUS is keen to learn from these communities and pilots,with the goal of expanding to support even more Indigenous
communities moving forward.

Parker Lake, British Columbia53Leveraging technology
to enhance health experiences
At TELUS, we are committed to transforming health experiences, with care.
We believe in the power of technology to create better health experiences
for Canadians and revolutionize access to healthcare, specifcally for themost vulnerable.
In response to the unprecedented 2023 spring wildfres in Northern Alberta,
TELUS Health for Good supported the temporary redeployment of the Radius
Mobile Health Clinic powered by TELUS Health to provide health services
to impacted communities. In partnership with Alberta Health Services,
Indigenous Services Canada, the Kee Tas Kee Now Tribal Council and nearby
Primary Care Networks (PCNs), care was provided to hundreds of individuals
during the height of the wildfre evacuation period and while residents weresettling back into their communities. Services provided included primarycare, vaccinations, pre/post-natal and pediatric care. We are grateful for thecommitment of the partners we worked with to support the communities
we serve when they needed it most.
Daniel Leung, RN with Indigenous Services Canada, providing Alberta Wildfire
Response support from the TELUS Health Mobile Clinic

For more information, please visit Telus.com/HealthForGood.

“I just don’t think that it can be stated enough, that the bestanswer is not to bring the people to the medicine. It’s tobring the medicine to the people.”
54

Dr. Jennifer Parker
BSc, MD, CCFP, Physician & Community
Medical Director in High Level, AB & IWC
Medical Advisor for North Zone WestSeason of the Salmon∙ Talook Ooza
Nadleh Whut’en is “where
the salmon return”. The
Salmon/Talook feed thepeople and are the bloodin the river veins of Mother
Earth. Every year at thesame time in late July andearly August, the Salmon
return to Nadleh. We standby the river with a lamp
and sing a song of
welcome home.
Johnny Ketlo III,
Nadleh Whut’enMuncho Lake, British Columbia

56

CulturalResponsivenessand Relationships

Listen, learn and understand how TELUS can meet unique needs
and build meaningful relationships. Ensure culturally responsive
customer experience for Indigenous customers.

Building meaningful
relationships by listening,learning, and truth-telling
As a corporate and social purpose leader, we recognize themovement as they lead us towards a safer society for Indigenous

responsibility we have to leverage our voice, business and relationships

women, girls and two-spirit people. From hosting learning sessions

to advance truth and reconciliation. It is our privilege to amplify

in our stores with community Elders, to volunteering to support

Indigenous talent and creativity through programs like the Future

Indigenous-led events like the Wendake International Pow Wow

Indigenous Filmmakers program and our TELUS Talks with Tamara(Quebec), all our team members have a role to play in listening,

Taggart podcast. We are proud to join the Moose Hide Campaign

learning and supporting Indigenous-led activities.

“I sincerely thank TELUS and all the volunteers who attended
Pow Wow 2023 for their generosity and dedication. Your actions
contribute positively to the rapprochement and reconciliation
with First Nations, and I hope the experience was as positive
for you as it was for us. Tiawenhk!”

No Man’s Land Photographie

Rémy Vincent
Grand Chief ofWendake59

Learning about
our shared history

Elevating Indigenous
voices through literature

In partnership with Chastity Davis-Alphonsethe actions of our leaders. Our Executive leadership

The Salon du livre des Premières Nations (SLPN),

edition welcomed over 3K readers, who had theof Kwahiatonhk! (We write! in Wendat), a non-profit(Tla’amin and Tŝilhqot’in Nations), TELUS launchedteam are allies and advocates of the Truth andpresented by TELUS, highlights the rich culture

opportunity to meet Indigenous authors from Quebec

organization that promotes Indigenous authors

the Truth and Reconciliation learning program

Reconciliation learning program, with each ofof Indigenous literature. This event invites visitors

and Ontario at round tables and book signings.

and literary works.

for TELUS team members to deepen their

them committing to completing the program andto discover the cultural wealth of Indigenous

The event program also included performances

understanding of our shared history. The three-partdoing their part to lead TELUS on our reconciliation

communities, drawing renewed attention in thehighlighting Indigenous legends through stories,

video series and corresponding resources provide

journey. These same leaders have invited all TELUS

wake of various local events organized bypoetry, singing and instrumental music.

an overview of Indigenous Peoples pre-contact,

team members to participate in the program as

Indigenous Peoples. The SLPN was created in

the impacts of the Confederation of Canada andpart of our commitment to building cultural and2011 in response to the urgent need to increase

Indigenous-led efforts for change.

historical awareness through the lens of Indigenous

Indigenous authors’ visibility and reflect theirPeoples. This learning initiative mobilizes the path

identities and interests at literary events.

TELUS recognizes that cultural shifts are mosteffective and meaningful when demonstrated byforward and seeks to embed reconciliation into
our company culture.

Indigenous artists are actively working to makethe voices of Indigenous Peoples heard in all
their diversity. Jocelyn Sioui, an author, performer“I’m seeing a growing interest in Indigenousand stage actor from the Huron-Wendat Nation,

culture. Non-Indigenous people in Quebec

uses his art to explore his Indigenous roots andand the rest of Canada are interested in what

identity. His play Mononk Jules, which reconstructs

we have to say,” noted Louis-Karl Picard-Sioui, athe story of his great-uncle’s life, helps to bridge

Today, the SLPN is still Canada’s most importantmember of the Huron-Wendat Nation and author,

the divide between First Nations and the rest of

showcase for Indigenous literature. The 2022

historian, anthropologist and director

Canada by reconnecting their stories.
Dave Jenniss, of Wolastoqey origin and artistic
director of Les Productions Ondinnok, believes“As humans, and as Canadians, we must acknowledge this painful history,
and work towards healing and reconciliation. The legacy of residential
schools, the Indian Act, and other discriminatory policies and practices
has left deep scars on Indigenous communities and on Canadiansociety as a whole. TELUS’ learning series on truth and reconciliation
was very impactful and provided me with a deeper understandingof our shared history that sparked a flame within me.”60

Dave Richardson
Senior Vice-president,
Business Solutions,
Proud member of the
TELUS teamthat theatre plays an essential role in rekindlingmemories and leaving a trace for future
generations of Indigenous artists. He writes
touchingly honest texts inspired by his Indigenousroots. For him, non-Indigenous people’s growinginterest in the SLPN is a form of reconciliation,
because it encourages dialogue and empathy.
To experience the highlights of the Salon du
Livre des Premières Nations, including four
dedicated podcasts, visit the event website
at kwahiatonhk.com.
Vanessa Bell and Virginia Pésémapéo Bordeleau

61

Starting the school year
off right with Kits for Kids
For many families, the rising costs of food andIn 2023 TELUS delivered over 3K Kits

goods means many essential school supplies arefor Kids to the students of 34 Indigenous

simply not within their means. Our TELUS Kits

communities throughout British Columbia,

for Kids program helps to fill that gap, providing

Alberta and Quebec.

essential school supplies to children fromfamilies in need.

“As principal, I’ve seen the power this initiative has totransform our students’ lives. These bags provide
much more than just school supplies – they’re a realsource of independence and peace of mind. TELUS’commitment to education is truly remarkable, andwe’re grateful for their ongoing support in buildinga bright future for our younger generations.”
Fanny Jean, Operations Director at TELUS, accompanied by Stéphanie Bacon, Laurence Rock-Hervieux,
Anna-Paule Fontaine, Anika Crépeau, Kathy Hervieux and Gérald Bacon of the Nussim School in Pessamit

62

Victoria
Riverinprincipal of theNussim School
in Pessamit

Digital Witness Blanket

Advancing truth and reconciliation through art
In 2022 the Canadian Museum for Human Rights (CMHR) and Carey

residential school, Newman created the original Witness Blanket,

Newman (Hayalthkin’geme) launched the digital Witness Blanket projecta monumental work of art made from more than 877 pieces fromin partnership with TELUS. Through an innovative digital platform, the77 communities collected from former residential schools, churches,

digital Witness Blanket enables users to bear witness to the atrocities

government buildings, and important cultural sites across Canada.

of the residential school system through artwork, videos, images,

The pieces were donated by Survivors and their families toand interviews with Survivors. Inspired by his father’s experiences in

Newman and his team.

TELUS and TELUS Friendly Future Foundation enabled digital accessibility
to the Witness Blanket through a $1M commitment launched in 2022.

Since the launch of the platform 700K students

foster reconciliation. The next phases include advancing

Explore the items

and educators have been reached with over 750K

technology of the digital platform to be more immersive

and stories featured

experiencing the digital Witness Blanket online with awith the development of virtual reality and augmented

in the digital

goal of reaching 1M by the end of 2023. TELUS was proud

reality. The virtual reality prototype is complete and the

Witness Blanket

to partner with TEDxWhistler and the National Centre‘Calls for Sounds’ project is underway inviting Indigenous

for Truth and Reconciliation to raise awareness of thePeoples to contribute sounds that represent theirdigital Witness Blanket to promote understanding andculture. These experiences will launch in 2024.

“Since the launch of the Digital Witness Blanket in 2022 the partnershipwith TELUS and the CMHR has continued to deepen. As we expand boththe technology platforms and overall reach of the project, something that
resonates with me is how TELUS embraces our collective responsibility
to act in the best interest of the Witness Blanket, a core principle of ourpartnership. This commitment to purpose, where the work is guided by
and upholds the cultural perspectives of my ancestors, embodies theheart of what it means to reconcile.”

Carey
NewmanHayalthkin’geme

Doug Little, Canadian Museum for Human Rights

65

Four million moose hide pins,
20 million conversations
This year, the Moose Hide Campaign reached

May 11 marked Moose Hide Campaign Day, awith the collective intention and desire toa new milestone: 4M pins distributed nationwide.

day of ceremony that invites all Canadians to

end violence towards women, children andEach orange square is a symbol of the wearer’s

come together and take a stand on this important

all those along the gender continuum.”commitment to speak out against gender-based

issue. Grounded in traditional ways of learning

violence and better support Indigenous women,

and healing, this year’s primary event was held

girls and two-spirited people. Each pin sparksin Victoria. It included a day of fasting, a walkat least five conversations about standing up

for reconciliation in Victoria, a plenary session,

against violence towards women and children.

speeches, as well as online and in-person live

That means, so far, over 20M conversations

workshops with Elders and Knowledge Keepers.

have been started.

The Moose Hide Campaign exists to unite people
in responding to the 231 Calls to Justice andoffers educational resources for schools,
organizations and workplaces who want to get
involved. Nearly half of all women in Canada will
experience an incident of gender-based violence,

Hundreds of other events took place across thewith a disproportionate number of Indigenous

The grassroots, Indigenous-led movement

country, beginning at day break in the Mi’kmaq

women and girls impacted.

was founded by father and daughter Paul andterritory on the Atlantic Coast, reaching to theRaven Lacerte more than 10 years ago, withHouse of Commons and echoing through othera goal of giving out 10M pins to end violence

levels of government. The day came to a close

against women and children. The moose hide pin

with a fast-breaking ceremony and feast.

serves as a call to action to change perspectives
on masculinity by engaging men and boys inconversations that encourage healthy masculinity.

Joining in the Moose Hide Campaign movement,
TELUS leaders made space for team members
to discuss healthy masculinity in the workplace
by wearing their moose hide pins regularly andCo-founder of the Moose Hide Campaign, Ravensharing their personal thoughts on the importance

Lacerte, shared, “Our vision is to have 1-millionof the Moose Hide Campaign message.

Canadians fasting together on the same day“We invite all Canadians to open their hearts and learn more about
the issue of murdered missing Indigenous women and girls – notonly on Moose Hide Campaign Day, but throughout the year.”
Tegan McMartin Photography

Dominic Paul
Moose HideCampaign National
Ambassador

67

In 2023+8,300218+1,900pins distributed
to customers

retail stores offered pins
across 9 provinces

pins distributed to TELUS
team members“To me, healthy masculinity means living with empathy and kindness
and striving to be the best version of ourselves. It’s about asking‘Who do we want to be in this world?’ I’m lucky to have my father, who
was a wonderful role model in my life. The respect and compassion
he showed others has influenced my own behaviours a great deal,
even after his passing. He inspires me everyday to be intentional in
all my relationships, modeling love and empathy to my daughtersand being an equal partner to my wife in all aspects of life.”

68

Nazim
BenhadidSenior Vice-president,
TELUS Networks,
Proud member of
the TELUS teamTegan McMartin Photography. (L-R) Terry Wells, Shaye Draper, Shazia Zeb Sobani, Moose Hide Campaign CEO David Stevenson, Marissa Nobauer, Christy MorganTELUS Fleet
connects
communities
through art andstorytelling

Walking in PowerBarbara Derrick, Tŝilhqot’in from Xeni Gwet’in
I am a Tŝilhqot’in Indigenous artist
from Xeni Gwet’in, located 187 kms
outside Williams Lake, B.C.
I was born and raised in Quesnel,
B.C. My earliest memories ofbeing exposed to colour were
influenced by my mother – getting
into her purse and applying her red
lipstick. I also fondly recall asking her,As part of TELUS’ commitment to amplifying
Indigenous voices and talent, we look for creativeand meaningful ways to connect our customers
to their communities. Building on our fleet refresh
program started in 2021, this year we partnered withMichaela Gilbert, T’exelc (Williams Lake First Nation)

when I was four years old, “What isyour favorite colour?” When she responded, “Blue,” little did
I know it would become the colour I would embed into the stories
of my life. Later, these stories started to take on less blue andmore bright colours – like coming out of the phthalo blue
darkness into the light!

and Barbara Derrick, Tŝilhqot’in from Xeni Gwet’in

The pristine land, waters and people provided the inspiration forto share their stories and showcase their unique

Walking in Power. It’s about being courageous and brave, teaching

artwork on some of our fleet in the Cariboo Chilcotina future generation “how to fish” and “when to give back.” I

region of British Columbia and outside the TELUS

chose the bear because it’s the one that’s given me a voice throughWilliams Lake corporate office.

my dreams and life; an icon reminding me tostand tall, stay strong, share my voice – to walkin my power and help others walk in power.
The bear represents the reclamation of thisvoice, and the waters are a conduit between
communities and TELUS. If we act together,
Watch Barbara’s
story

70

our voices can reach many places at the
speed of light.
71

Qwléwem (to pick berries)
Michaela Gilbert, T’exelc (Williams Lake First Nation)
I’m an Indigenous artist from T’exelc(Williams Lake First Nation).
Growing up with a mother who
is an artist, creativity has always
been a part of my life. My
current work is inspired bycontemporary Indigenous
identities and the preservationof traditional stories.
My piece Qwléwem (to pickberries) is about reconnecting with culture and traditions throughstorytelling. In this work, you can see the ravens working together
to gather Saskatoon berries, collecting them in a birch bark basket.
Each element has personal and shared significance within mycommunity: the raven, the Saskatoon berry
and the birch bark basket. The personificationof animal characters is a key component of
Secwépemc storytelling. The Saskatoon
berry is a staple food in the area, and thebirch basket is a common traditional craft.
Watch
Michaela’s story

72

73

Elevating Indigenous voices
through TELUS Local Content
TELUS Local Content funds locally reflective content across
British Columbia and Alberta. This is done through two funding
portfolios - TELUS STORYHIVE and TELUS originals.
Since 2018, these portfolios have distributed over $6.2M
of community programming funds to Indigenous content
creators, filmmakers and storytellers.

TELUS STORYHIVE
Since 2013, STORYHIVE has funded over 550 new andemerging Indigenous content creators with grants ranging
from $10K to $100K along with training, mentorship anddistribution. In the 2022-2023 broadcast year, Indigenous
content creators made up 21 per cent of TELUS STORYHIVE
projects and 10 per cent of our funding was committed
to Indigenous-led projects.

STORYHIVE Indigenous
Storyteller Edition

STORYHIVE Voices

STORYHIVE Summer Crew

Produced by Ryan Oliverius,

Local Lives, produced by Rebecca Rooney

The Foundation: Indigenous Hip Hop

Decolonizing Wellness takes aand Braden Kadlun Johnston, hopes to bringin Canada, produced by Diana Hellson,

two-eyed seeing approach to healtha unique locally reflective perspective on the

explores the meaning of the term

and wellness by weaving together

community life of Calgary and Lloydminster.

“Indigenous Hip Hop” and the connections

Indigenous and Western beliefs

They will accomplish this by sharing the

between hip hop and Indigenous culturesfrom Vernon.

stories of various Indigenous businesses,

across Turtle Island.

artists and storytellers.

STORYHIVE offers a variety of opportunities for firsttime and emerging filmmakers, digital content creators,
livestreamers and podcasters to create their dream project.
From short documentaries, to episodic series andlivestreams, there is a program for all aspiring content
creators. The best part about the programs is that noexperience is required to participate.

Watch these stories now on TELUS Optik TV® Channel 9 or STORYHIVE’s
YouTube Channel

Fort Nelson, British Columbia

74

75

Future Indigenous
Filmmakers
TELUS STORYHIVE’s Community Stories program in collaboration with the Empowered Filmmaker
Masterclass, offers training and mentorship programs to Indigenous communities across British
Columbia and Alberta with little or no experience in film. Through a five-day workshop, Farhan Umedaly,lead instructor of the program, supports individuals with no prior knowledge in filmmaking to become
nimble and powerful media creators. This year’s program took place in Williams Lake, Kamloops andTerrace, B.C., as well as Lloydminster and Lethbridge, Alberta.

Overall
program stats:

6

Years completed

125+
Films made425+“This year’s program has lifted up 100
aspiring Indigenous filmmakers across
British Columbia and Alberta to produce
over 40 films. We want to lift up the original
storytellers of our lands here on Turtle
Island. There is nothing more beautiful thanwatching a new content creator join the
STORYHIVE community and share theirstory, stepping into that position of power tocreate awareness and meaningful change.
All this can happen in just five days; you cango from just an idea to having a real film
ready to launch your career and get all the
support you need to keep going... This iswhat we live for.”FarhanUmedaly
Program Manager,
STORYHIVE
Community Stories:
Empowered
Filmmaker
Masterclass

Explore projects
from the Empowered
Filmmaker MasterclassIndigenous filmmakers
trained77

TELUS originals

Piita Aapasskaan:
The Kyle Young Pine Story

TELUS originals supports the production of compelling, social-purpose

Kyle Young Pine grew up in Calgary, distant from his Blackfoot

documentaries and documentary series from established, independent

customs and traditions. Skateboarding saved him from the generationalfilmmakers in B.C. and Alberta.

traumas he faced as a child, but it was in Fancy Feather Dancing that

We prioritize representation in front of and behind the camera with locally-

Access Indigenous
storytellingwhenever, wherever

he connected with his community and discovered his truest self.

reflective stories that have global resonance and reflect diverse identities,

Young Pine, whose Blackfoot name is Piita Aapasskaan (meaning Eagle

communities and ideas. TELUS originals recognizes a special responsibility

Fancy Dancer), uses dance to overcome his struggles with addiction

to the Indigenous storytellers on whose lands we live and work.

and mental health. The film showcases his journey of self-discovery

TELUS Optik TV, TELUS
originals - Channel 8 and
STORYHIVE - Channel 9

and recovery and how he found the strength to overcome challenges
through the support of his community and the power of dance.

In the 2022-2023 broadcast year,
Indigenous directors and producers
made up 14 per cent of TELUS originalfilmmakers and 22 per cent of ourfunding was committed to Indigenousled projects.

Directed by Young Pine’s longtime friend Brock Davis Mitchell, the two
used their bond to find the language of the film and showcase Young
Pine’s story.

TELUS Optik TV, Channel
126, Indigenous Voices- Explore livestreams,
documentaries andspecial features from

Now a recovery coach with Recovery Coaches Alberta, Young Pine

Indigenous storytellers

helps others find their own route to sobriety. Piita Aapasskaan showsin communities in Britishthat we can find our way back to ourselves through community andColumbia and Alberta.

unexpected paths.
Watch the multi-award winning short documentary Piita Aapasskaan:
The Kyle Young Pine Story on TELUS Optik TV Channel 8 and for free,

TELUS Stream+
Select content available

anytime, anywhere on the TELUS originals online viewing platform.
Watch Piita Aapasskaan:
The Kyle Young Pine Story

STORYHIVE YouTube
Channel and
TELUS originals online
viewing platform.

78

79

Walking Caribou ∙ Whudzih Nuya
The Caribou/Whudzih is one of therespected Clans of the Yinka Dene/Peopleof the Earth or Dakelh People. The Caribou
is a migratory animal that feeds the people
well and keeps them healthy and happy.
Johnny Ketlo III, Nadleh Whut’enEconomic
Reconciliation
Support sustainable economic participationand growth for Indigenous Peoples throughinvolvement in TELUS’ business.

Meziadin Lake Provincial Park80

Aligning business practices with
the needs of Indigenous Peoples
TELUS aims to demonstrate respect andsupport career growth. Through ongoing

we are creating new opportunities forreciprocity to Indigenous communities inconversations with the Eagles Employee

Indigenous businesses and entrepreneurs

authentic ways as part of our response

Resource Group and the Indigenous

to participate in our projects and operations.

to the TRC’s Calls to Action #92. AcrossAdvisory Council, we are implementing

Similarly, we support and encourage

all areas of our business, including

programs and practices across our businessour partners to advance economic

employment, supplier procurement andto support, strengthen and celebrate

reconciliation by increasing Indigenous

business development, we are deepening

the vast diversity of our team. This year,

representation within their own

our relationships and understanding of the

TELUS launched the Indigenous Employee

supplier networks.

Indigenous communities we work with, toWellness Benefit, a key recommendation

better inform our reconciliation efforts.

of our strategy which provides Indigenous

Our key priorities of our Indigenous
employment strategy are to ensure thatteam members with up to $1K to accesstraditional healing practices and care.

TELUS is committed to being an inclusive
employer and business partner, guided byour reconciliation commitments and theinsights shared with us from the Indigenous

TELUS is a safe and inclusive workspace

Through initiatives like our recently launchedpartners, employees, and thought leaders

for Indigenous team members and to

Indigenous Supplier Procurement Program,with whom we work.

In 2023, TELUS partnered with B.C. Tech contributing $50K towards
the launch of a groundbreaking Indigenous accelerator program aimed
to uplift and support Indigenous entrepreneurs in the technology
industry. This program provides Indigenous-led tech businesses withthe opportunity to grow visibility and strengthen their networks.
82

Petitot River, British Columbia

Nisga’a̱ Nation breaks groundwith Indigenous-led connectivity project
Gitlaxt’aamiks̱resident Andrew Borne isThis connectivity will not only bring peace

After more than 18 months of listening,

relieved to know the days of poor cell receptionof mind, it will open new avenues to long-learning and relationship-building, TELUS

while traveling in his community are coming

term prosperity by increasing access toto an end.

virtual healthcare, remote education

and Nisga’a̱ reached a one-of-a-kind, tailor-and economic growth.

made agreement.

“It just kind of blossomed,” said Borne.

Safety has long been a concern for Nisga’a̱citizens, visitors and even first responders,“It’s going to give us unprecedented“TELUS was looking for a way to work withbecause there’s no reliable phone service alongopportunity, especially for our young

Indigenous communities, and we were

the roads connecting the four remote villages

people,” said Borne. “This builds ourlooking for a relationship that could grow.”on Nisga’a̱ Lands, located in the Nass Valley

capacity for our youth to learn here, buildof Northwest B.C.

“Without cellular coverage, and withhours sometimes between commutes,

here, educate here, and go anywherein the world and use these skills.”

you don’t know where your loved ones are,”Nisga’a̱ made history in 2000, signing thefirst ever modern Treaty in British Columbia,

said Borne, Director of IT with Nisga’a̱ Lisims

granting the Nation inherent self-government.

Government and Chief Executive Officer with
Lisims Internet Technology Services (LITS).

Today, LITS is one of the first Indigenous-owned

As part of this partnership, TELUS will construct
the cellular towers, funded by Nisga’a̱ and ISED,and will provide network technology training to
Nisga’a̱ citizens so that they can maintain theinfrastructure and grow the capacity of LITS.
“Here, you have a unique situation where
you have a modern treaty governmentand operated telecommunications networks in

who owns a lot of its own infrastructure,

Fortunately, all of that is about to change, thanks

Canada. When exploring solutions to increase

and TELUS is building up on that system

to an innovative and Indigenous-led partnership.

wireless connectivity, it was critical to thewith technical knowledge, and helping

Announced in July, Nisga’a̱ Nation is embarking

Nation that any new projects on Nisga’a̱ landto support the Nisga’a
Nation with tools̱

on a $9M project to bring wireless service

to the entire Nass Valley, in collaboration withTELUS and with funding from the Governmentof Canada’s Innovation, Science and Economic
Development (ISED) department.

be Indigenous-led.

“It’s always been a motto for the Nation towork together and be leaders, using ourown infrastructure, our own networks, ourown people,” said Borne.

Gary Fiegehen Photography courtesy of Nisga’a̱ Lisims Government. Saxw
Lisims, the mouth of the Nass River looking west from Nisga’a
̱ Highway 113

to make the lives of Nisga’a
citizens anḏguests on our lands better,” said Andrew
Robinson, Industry Relations Manager,
Nisga’a̱ Lisims Government.
“Economic reconciliation is at theforefront of this partnership.”85

Where sustainability,
ingenuity and reciprocity meet
Many remote and rural Indigenous communities

Business Corporation (ABC). ABC is an AlexanderWith this solution in place, the PureFibre build inface significant barriers to procuring reliable

First Nation (AFN) member-owned business.

Northwest Alberta is expected to be completed

connectivity. Remote builds are more complex,
logistically challenging and often require
collaborative and creative solutions. This was thecase when TELUS began planning an upcoming
TELUS PureFibre expansion in three Indigenous
communities and three rural municipalities inNorthern Alberta, with funding from the Universal
Broadband Fund and Alberta Broadband Fund.
Geography, geology and weather all play key roles
in how TELUS PureFibre is designed and deployed.
The unique landscape of this part of Northern Alberta
necessitates that we deliver our fibre underground

From the start, VanderBurg noted that TELUS’approach differed from the typical “three bids and abuy” way of doing business. Instead, the focus wason relationship-building and the goal was to foster
reciprocity with Indigenous-owned businesses.

in 2024. The benefits of this project are not justmeasured in download speeds per second, but
in the quality of the relationships built, and the
new and future economic opportunities they will
facilitate. “When Clearwater Environmental
sought out a partnership with AFN, we weren’t

Together, AFN and TELUS began evaluating

looking for one project,” said Meidinger.

suppliers, and Clearwater Environmental emerged“We wanted to ensure that all customers

as the frontrunner. The Alberta-based company

and projects would be open-ended forrecycles every drop of hydrovac slurry, andfuture engagement.”

environmental sustainability is a priority forboth AFN and TELUS.

Brought together by their shared values andbusiness goals, ABC and Clearwater Environmental– which means lots of digging! A byproduct ofAs the three parties brainstormed, inspiration struck.

have launched a joint venture partnership that

all this digging is dirt and water, also known as“The oil industry has been using mobile andencourages skills development, sustainability‘hydrovac slurry’, which must be disposed of in an

on-site services for years, but it had never

initiatives and growth opportunities.

environmentally sustainable and controlled manner

been applied to utility or fibre optic work duewith strict adherence to environmental regulations.

to the size of the projects and irregularity of

Due to the remote location of the Northern Alberta

the work,” said Katrina Meidinger, co-founder andbuild site, the nearest disposal facility was hundreds

Managing Partner of Clearwater Environmental.

of kilometres away, presenting significant cost,

Seeing an opportunity to adapt that solution,

environmental and timeline challenges.

co-founders Meidinger and Tyler Hollman, Director

In search of alternative solutions, TELUS
engaged one of its trusted business partners, Kris
VanderBurg, Chief Operating Officer of Alexander
86

Operations, along with their team worked closelywith AFN and regulators to design a remote
disposal program, which launched in May of 2023.

“A healthy partnership with Clearwater
Environmental means that community
investment and activities can occur,”
VanderBurg said. In June, ABC hosted their2023 Charity Golf Tournament, with support
from partners like Clearwater Environmental.
All proceeds from the event fund community
programs that benefit AFN members.

(L-R) Kris Vanderburg (AFN), Tyler Hollman (CWE), Katrina Meidinger (CWE), Colin Arcand (AFN), and Cindy Yellowdirt (AFN)“Economic Reconciliation is one of the key drivers for increasing the quality of life for our people
and our community. Having long lasting partnerships with Industry along with our Nation-owned
businesses will allow us to create long term careers, increase training and employment initiatives
and increase revenue generation which can be used to help fund many of our underfunded
Nation programs including education, social, public works, housing and recreation. By working
collaboratively with groups like TELUS, and Nations having a seat at the table we can jointly
support each other to meet our collective goals.”

Chief Arcand
Alexander First
NationIndigenomics: Ushering in the$100B Indigenous economy“What we’re looking at is aeconomy, instead of their own$100B Indigenous economy, said Carolsignificant shift in Indigenous

Indigenous spend.

Anne Hilton, one of the leading national

economic power,” said Hilton.

Canada just took one step closer to theauthorities on economic reconciliation.

“There’s this huge opportunity

She pointed to the jarring inequities

for companies to start building

The inaugural Indigenomics on Bay

and economic barriers that Indigenous

a narrative that’s measurable,

Street conference, hosted in Toronto in

Peoples have historically faced, including

accountable and targetable,”November, brought together key players

the fact that they were prohibited fromshe said.

in Canada’s corporate and financial

accessing legal counsel under thesectors to learn how they can support

Indian Act until 1951.

Indigenous economic success.

She pointed to TELUS as a clear leader
in this space. In 2021, TELUS became“That we’re still here,” she said, “itthe first technology company in Canada“This event is a pivotal moment inreally shows what Indigenous power

to publicly commit to an Indigenous

Canada’s advancement,” said Hilton,

is, our influence, and how we’ve

Reconciliation Action Plan. The company

founder of the Indigenomics Institute.

shaped our reality. We’re resilient

remains focused on enabling positive

Her organization is a leading research,and must be included.”outcomes in Indigenous communities by

education and engagement platform thatworks to increase the role and visibility ofIndigenous Peoples in the new economy.

Businesses looking to do their part infacilitating economic reconciliation can
re-evaluate their procurement strategies,

building strong relationships, supporting
local Indigenous entrepreneurs throughgrants and procurement, and byproviding connectivity that unleashes

For Hilton, the $100-billion Indigenous

invite Indigenous directors to sit on

economy is not only attainable but also

their boards, and explore investment

essential for Canada’s economic future.

and mentorship opportunities with

“TELUS is clearly demonstrating

Indigenous entrepreneurs, she said.

Indigenomics in action,” Hilton said.

Canada valued the Gross Domestic

And when it comes to evaluating the

TELUS is a proud partner of the

Product attributable to Indigenous

success of these actions, Hilton said it’s

Indigenomics Institute and a multi-year

Peoples to be $48.9 billion in 2020,

critical companies look at the resulting

Platinum Sponsor for their events.

up from $41.7 billion in 2012.

value creation in the Indigenous

In a report released last year, Statistics

new possibilities.

89Preserving Innu
culture throughadventure tourism
For Edmond Mestenapeo of Unamen Shipu, developing
employment opportunities that connect the community and visitors
to Innu culture was a priority when building Winipeukut Nature.
Connectivity is key to the success of Winipeukut Nature helping
to drive business growth through global advertising and onthe-ground communication.
While many visitors may be searching for the backcountry
experience when booking an excursion, now that the region has
cellular connectivity, the Winipeukut Nature team does not need
to worry about the safety of their customers or staff while exploring
the scenic and remote destinations of La Romaine, Quebec.
Mestenapeo shared that he is “really proud that these
activities contribute to the continuity of our culture.”
Hear Edmondshare more about
Winipeukut Nature

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91

TELUS Pollinator
Fund for GoodRAVEN INVESTEEThe TELUS Pollinator Fund for Good, one of the world’s largest corporate

Since launching in 2020, the Pollinator Fund has committed to deploying

social impact funds, is an extension of TELUS’ long-standing commitment to

7.5 per cent of the fund’s investments into Indigenous-led companies, alreadysocial capitalism. With an initial investment of $100M, the Pollinator Fund has

investing $6M. By supporting Indigenous businesses and innovators, we are

been moving swiftly to fnd and back companies that are driving compelling

generating meaningful impact that is critical for advancing reconciliation

solutions in health, education, agriculture, and the environment.

and fostering the growth of Indigenous communities.

POLLINATOR FUND INVESTEEPOLLINATOR FUND INVESTEE

Another Raven investee, Cheekbone Beauty,

As Paul Lacerte, Managing Partner and Founder ofentrepreneurs and their innovative solutions thatis Canada’s frst Indigenous-owned cosmetics

Raven shared, “Indigenous Peoples are cutting-generate economic and social change – creatingcompany born out of Jenn Harper’s vision to “createedge innovators. The richness of Indigenous

a prosperous future for Indigenous Peoples

a space in the beauty industry where Indigenous

culture is on full display with entrepreneurs suchand all Canadians.

youth feel seen and feel their enormous value in

as Lawrence and Jenn, proving that we canthe world.” Cheekbone Beauty creates high-quality,

build transformative impact and have healthycruelty-free beauty products that are packaged incommercial returns at the same time. This isan environmentally sustainable manner. Recently,

reconciliation in action.”

Cheekbone has been garnering attention for its

RAVEN INVESTEE

successful expansion of their 609 JCPenney
stores in the United States, in addition to the

Together, with Virtual Gurus, Raven and theirinvestees, we continue to support Indigenous

Towards a $100B Indigenous economy, one
investment at a time.
For more information about the TELUS
Pollinator Fund for Good, please visit
telus.com/pollinatorfund.

52 Sephora Canada stores.
Virtual Gurus is one of these organizations, helping

Raven Indigenous Capital Partners is anotherAmong them is OneFeather, a technology company

workers from underrepresented communities fnd

one of these exemplary organizations thatfounded by Lawrence Lewis, which is transforming

high-quality employment and matching employers

further backs early and growth-stage Indigenous

the way Indigenous communities in Canada accesswith skilled virtual assistants. In 2022, Virtual Gurus

companies that are committed to building aessential digital services such as voting, online statusclosed an $8.4M Series A round led by the Pollinatorrenewed and sustainable Indigenous economy.

card renewals, and digital wallet banking. After threeFund, making Racette the frst Indigenous woman to

As North America’s frst and only Indigenous-led

decades of working in Indigenous administration,

successfully raise a Series A in Canadian tech history.

and owned impact investment frm, Raven has

witnessing ineffcient processes and at the time, poor

Racette’s success is a strong step towards herbeen at the forefront of the sector, closing theirtreatment by institutions, Lawrence recognized there

vision of a future where everyone, regardless of their

Fund II at $100M, which will enable Raven to invest

was a real need for technology tailored specifcallybackgrounds has an equal opportunity to thrive.

more at later stages and continue to revitalize thefor Indigenous Peoples. For example, OneFeather

Indigenous economy. To date, Raven has invested

enables card renewals on cell phones, eliminating thein 11 Indigenous-led companies that support

need for status Indians to travel to government offces,and beneft Indigenous People.

especially for those living in remote areas. Since 2014,
OneFeather has served over 240 Indigenous Nations,and recently facilitated the 2023 Métis Alberta election
where over 20K Métis people participated in the vote– effectively saving time and removing travel barriers.

92

Cheekbone Beauty93Investing in
Indigenous students
In alignment with TELUS’ economic reconciliation strategy, we recognize

an Indigenous law student through the integrated practice curriculum tothe importance of investing in Indigenous students to support skills

increasing the breadth of financial support available, TELUS is proud todevelopment and increase representation of Indigenous Peoples in thepartner with aligned organizations to build unique opportunities to support

workforce. From partnering with Toronto Metropolitan University’s Lincoln

Indigenous students in their studies and career development.

Alexander School of Law to offer a 15-week professional placement to“Combining financial support with additional supports such as free mobile
services, networking, and learning opportunities makes the TELUS Student
Bursary uniquely successful at fulfilling the needs of Indigenous post-secondary
students. Indspire is pleased to be working with TELUS and TELUS Friendly
Future Foundation on this life-changing initiative to remove barriers, encourage
Indigenous collaboration, and promote Indigenous educational success.”Mike
DeGagnéPresident & CEO
of Indspire

TELUS Award for Indigenous
Post-Secondary Success

Partnering with Indspire
TELUS Friendly Future Foundation aims to

Our partnership with Indspire aims to recognize

This year we have tripled our support of Indigenous students on theirempower youth to build the skills, confidence andand invest in the incredible potential within

educational journeys in accounting. In 2022, in partnership with thesense of belonging they need to succeed today

Indigenous communities. Meaningful collaborations

Chartered Professional Accountants (CPA), Alberta’s Education Foundation,and in the future. This year we launched the $50M

like this will increase Indigenous representation in

we launched the TELUS Award for Indigenous Post-Secondary Success.

TELUS Student Bursary, the largest student bursary

the workforce, which is a key driver of economic

In 2023 we have extended our reach through partnerships with the CPA

fund in Canada, for students experiencing criticalreconciliation in Canada.

Education Foundation of B.C. and CPA Foundation Quebec.

financial need who are committed to making a

The award is granted annually to Indigenous students, in their third or fourthyear with a declared major in accounting in any Alberta, British Columbia
and Quebec post-secondary institution which offers prerequisite courses
for entrance into the CPA Professional Education Program.

difference in their communities. Through thisinitiative, we are pleased to announce a $150K
partnership with Indspire, a national Indigenous
charity that is enriching Canada through investingin education for First Nations, Inuit and Métis people.

One scholarship in the amount of $2.5K which comes with potential

Together, our partnership will support a minimum

mentorship, networking and co-op opportunities is available inof 50 Indigenous youth this year, aged 17 to 29

each province.

years, to access post-secondary education.

AB | BC
94

Fort Nelson First Nation, British Columbia

TELUS Student Bursary is designed for students
experiencing financial need pursuing any field ofstudy and any year of undergraduate education in abachelor’s degree or diploma program, at $5K and$3K respectively. Bursary recipients will be offeredadditional optional support services, such as freemobility and low-cost internet plans, networking andlearning opportunities, and the chance to collaborate
with a community of like-minded peers who sharea passion for creating positive social change.
95

Cultivating solutions
through the land
and technology
We are striving to create the best producer-to-consumer outcomes through ourwork at TELUS Agriculture and Consumer Goods. We provide actionable technology
solutions and data insights to farmers, ranchers, agribusinesses and food, beverage andconsumer goods companies that optimize how goods are produced, distributed andconsumed globally. Our digital solutions, including cold chain and farm management
information systems, drive more efficient production from seed to store, helping
improve the safety and quality of food and other goods in a way that is traceable
to end consumers, while mindfully minimizing the impact on the environment.
As part of TELUS, we’re upholding the commitment to reconciliation through ourwork. We collaborate with Indigenous leaders to understand how our technology
and data can be of service and provide training and resources to our team members
to be active participants in reconciliation. We’re developing an inclusive and culturally
relevant Indigenous reconciliation strategy, one that will make the most of what
we do best to support Indigenous priorities and make way for positive change.
This year we partnered with the Interior Region Indigenous Food Forum to better
learn how we may be able to collaborate with Indigenous farmers in the future.
As a global team, we’re privileged to live and work in the traditional territories andtreaty areas of many Indigenous communities. We recognize the interconnected natureof supply chains and the food system and are honoured to play a role in the responsible
stewardship of the land and natural resources on which these systems rely.

96

TELUS Eagles
The TELUS Eagles are a resource group for

TELUS Indigenous team members for Indigenousinterests and areas of expertise. Our quarterly

Indigenous team members and allies. The Eagles

team members. A key IRAP commitment, thiscareer development events are focused on providing

foster an inclusive space for Indigenous teamprogram aligns with our commitment to supporting

support and guidance while factoring in the uniquemembers and allies to share stories, learn together

Indigenous team members how they want to be

lived experiences of Indigenous team members.

and support one another. The Eagles aim to inspire

supported and being intentional about our efforts

We are grateful for the contributions of our Pathways

Indigenous team members in their professional andto contribute to the professional development

participants and their support in building our

personal pursuits as well as educate the wider TELUS

of Indigenous Peoples.

community. We look forward to evolving ourteam through interactive events and activities.

The Pathways program is two-pronged: focusing on

In 2023, Eagles launched Pathways, a mentorship

mentorship and career development with Indigenous

and career development program designed byWays of Knowing at the heart of what we do. Mentees

vision to ensure all Indigenous team members
have the opportunity to thrive at TELUS.

and mentors are paired according to their aligned“As co-chairs, we are profoundly humbled and proud of all the successes, growth, and spiritualconnections we’ve been honored to be a part of at TELUS through Eagles. Continuing the
dialogue with our resource group members as well as so many areas within TELUS has helped our
vision come to fruition in 2023. In the last year, with the help of our dedicated executive sponsor,
governance board, and committed volunteers we are proud to have seen our membership ofIndigenous team members and allies grow by 26%. We were pleased to be able to host our firstin-person events since 2019 for National Indigenous Peoples Day in both Edmonton and Vancouver
with exceptional attendance and participation. Launching Pathways has further enabled us toincorporate Traditional Ways of Knowing into the work our Indigenous TELUS team members do.
Creating space for Indigenous Identifying team members is at the heart of what drives thisvolunteer group which would not be possible without the allies who have joined us to listen,learn, and help create that space.”

CrystalStegner
Tsimshian,
Kitselas First
NationChantelle
LambertCree, Mistawasis
First Nation
TELUS Eagles
Co-Chairs
Proud membersof the TELUS
team(L-R) Andrew Hofmann, Chelsea Vaughan, Marissa Nobauer, Michael Louie, Lisa Kabatoff, Sean Sweet,
Jennifer Goncalves, Tracey Loucks, Poornima Padmanabhan, Roxana Negrut, Jennifer Bonnycastle

The Eagle ∙ sp’akw’us
The eagle, as it flies high in the sky tounderstand its environment, represents
the gift of foresight. As humans, we draw
on this eagle-eye view in setting andachieving our goals, taking into accounthow fast we can maneuver, what is doable
and how we can best achieve success.
Marissa Nahanee ∙ Míkw’achi7m
98

99

Caring for our planet
TELUS is committed to caring for our planet through our choices and actions. It starts with the creative and simple
steps taken at work or home by our team members but also includes our organization-wide initiatives. Throughinvestments in innovative technologies and sustainable business practices, we’re working to build a better future
for the next generation. We mindfully consider our impact on the environment in every decision we make, andbuilding a sustainability focused business is an important aspect of our overall corporate strategy.

25%

71 %

reduction in absolute Scope 1 andof electricity requirements procured

2 GHG emissions from 2019from renewable or low-emitting sources

194K

39%

devices were traded in and 70 per

reduction in water consumption

cent of our total waste was diverted

intensity per terabyte of data traffic

from landfill in 2022

from 2019

To read more about how TELUS is working towards becoming a zero-wastecompany and achieve 100 per cent net carbon neutrality for our operations
by 2030, visit us at telus.com/sustainability.
100

Toad River, British Columbia

Acknowledgments

About the artist
Johnny Ketlo III

About the photographer
Ryan Dickie

Johnny Ketlo III is a man of multi-talents and proven traits. He walks a new

Ryan Dickie is an Indigenous photographer, filmmaker, director and land

path defined by ancient rhythms and sustained earmarks that prevails a

steward based in Fort Nelson, British Columbia.

new modern edge, upholding his diplomacy from his regional homeof the Nadleh Whut’en Yinka Dene people.

We would like to thank everyone who supported the development of this

Ketlo means “wet moccasins,”’ his artist name given him by his Grandfather,report, including the many Indigenous voices providing guidance on our(Atsian) ‘Shunultus’ means “strong music.” Johnny is Frogclan, in Dakelh it iscommitment to reconciliation. Thank you for sharing your truths.

called Lhtseh Yoo. Ketlo is a premier musician, a producer, artist, hypnotist,and traveler. All of these different streams flow together under the

About the design company
Vincent Design Inc.

production name Scookoh Productions.
“I must have had a natural aptitude for art because I remember otherkids in class asking me to draw pictures for them in Grade 1,” says Ketlo.
Ketlo’s foundation was influenced by his Uncle Robert Sebastian and his

Vincent Design Inc. is an Indigenous-led creative agency infather Johnny Junior Ketlo. He grew up with Uncle Robert’s paintings all

Winnipeg, M.B., specializing in graphic and website design andaround his family and he was always fascinated by the animals and shapes.

development. Since 2007, a team helmed by founder and creative

The first aspect he saw was the mysterious ovoid style shape. This shape

director, Shaun Vincent, the agency has created the strategies

was brought to British Columbia’s natives directly from the Creator, a silent

and products that connect brands with customers.

mystery. Johnny’s Dad helped him carve his first totem pole, which was aWith dedication, exploration, and drive to help their clients’organizations grow, they’ve established themselves as a leading
design and marketing agency, where their team approach tohandheld size. He also drew logos and designs for community signs which

A descendant of the culturally strong Dene people from northern Canada,
he has developed a strong desire to convey the story of his people.
In its essence, the Dene have a deep and profound connection to theland they call home. It is this connection and inherited worldview that hasformed the sub-structure of Ryan’s visual and documentary style.
With a growing portfolio that includes both film and still imagery clients,
Ryan aims to inspire others to find a deeper connection to the land,
Indigenous ideologies, and cultural values through each photo, film,
conversation, and story.
An emerging presence across a wide spectrum of media, Ryan has
produced content for international and domestic brands including CNN,
The North Face, CBC Network, APTN, The Narwhal, Canadian Geographic,
Photolife Magazine, Destination B.C., Explore Canada, Travel Northern
B.C., First Peoples Cultural Council, B.C. Oil and Gas Commission,
Treaty 8 Tribal Association, and many more.

is where he began to notice the different types of Native art from all over
British Columbia, always under the tutelage of his uncle and father.

workflow and availability to clients sets them apart from

When heaven comes to earth, Ketlo will lead and assimilate all youth as

the competition.

he branches a solid creative path, knowing his ancestors are here in spirit,
playing his music and expressing art with his entire family while still

102

Gataga River, British Columbia

teaching Dakelh words and phrases.
103

“There is an enormous digital divide, exacerbatedby the pandemic. TELUS can reduce that dividefrom a technological perspective. Enhancing
health, economic and holistic wellbeing is really
key. When I think about Reconciliation, one ofthe definitions I have always fallen back on is that
Reconciliation means changing the narrative of
who we are as Indigenous Peoples in Canada.
TELUS has a far-reaching network, if TELUS cancontribute to changing the narrative about who
Indigenous Peoples are through advocacy,
connectivity, health, and leading othercorporations to join the Reconciliation
movement, I think there are countless waysthat TELUS can have an impact.”

104

Dr. Kim vander Woerd‘Namgis̱ ̱ First
Nation, B.C.

Boya Lake, British Columbia

105