Chamber of Commerce selects First Nation businessman to lead board

After one month of settling into his new position as Chair of the Saskatchewan Chamber of Commerce, Richard Ahenakew knows exactly what he hopes to accomplish.

The Prince Albert businessman and member of Ahtahkakoop First Nation is determined to provide Aboriginal business owners with a platform to help advance Saskatchewan’s Aboriginal population.

“As a First Nations person, I definitely want to do my best to help our Chiefs with bringing First Nations people forward in Saskatchewan,” said Ahenakew, who was elected into his role May 6.

One of the founding principles of the Saskatchewan Chamber of Commerce is to build a strong economy in the province by uniting local businesses.

Ahenakew is determined to build on that same philosophy by encouraging First Nations business owners and entrepreneurs to participate in the inclusive organization.

“We have a lot of successful businesses that have a lot to bring to the table,” said Ahenakew, who further explained that he hopes to utilize Aboriginal Business leaders to educate non-Aboriginal businesses on how to attract more First Nations employees.

Ahenakew, who has been an active chamber member for eight years, said he wants to help First Nations communities generate more income by facilitating more job opportunities.

As the General Manager to Northern Lights Casino in Prince Albert for the past five years, Ahenakew is very familiar with working hard to advance in his career.  In March 1996, he began an entry-level position at the Saskatchewan Indian Gaming Authority (SIGA), working his way up to manage the 42,000 square foot casino with over 400 employees.

Ahenakew’s work ethic – coupled with his commitment to First Nations throughout the province – is what helped secure his nomination as leader of the Saskatchewan Chamber of Commerce.

“We are very excited to have Richard as our new Chair,” said Saskatchewan Chamber of
Commerce CEO Steve McLellan in a press release. “His commitment to the development and promotion of First Nations businesses and employees will help the Chamber in its quest to ensure the sustainable and strategic growth of our province.”

As the first First Nations Chair in the Chamber’s 90-year history, Ahenakew admitted that he experiences moments of being overwhelmed with his new responsibilities. However, he is grateful to have a strong staff that supports his aspirations.

“I’ve got a great staff behind me that are willing to do what it takes in order for this year to be a success,” said Ahenakew, referring to board members and support staff at Northern Lights Casino.

Ahenakew replaces Holly Hetherington, a senior partner of Executive Source Partners, who served as Chamber Chair for the past year.

A general board meeting is scheduled for upcoming weeks to create a plan for Ahenakew’s ideas.

Ahenakew’s committee and board involvement over the years have included the Saskatchewan Human Resources Committee, the Prince Albert Grand Council Problem Gambling Program, Prince Albert Tourism and the Northern Lights Casino Powwow.

The Saskatchewan Chamber of Commerce’s membership includes close to 1000 businesses, and 80 Chambers of Commerce and Boards of Trade. The organization is based on volunteer business and professionals.