George Lafond, from Muskeg Lake Cree Nation, Saskatchewan, is an experienced business and social development advisor known for successfully leading strategic initiatives requiring First Nation engagement. He has worked successfully with First Nation bands, national, regional and local governments, universities, corporations, business associations and organizations. He is currently working on a special initiative with the University of Saskatchewan.
Between 1995 and 2002, Mr. Lafond served as a Vice Chief, then Chief, of the Saskatoon Tribal Council, promoting inclusion and opportunity for Aboriginal people.
As Special Assistant to the Minister of Indian Affairs and Northern Development in the mid 1980s and early 1990s, he advised on several matters including the creation of the Royal Commission on Aboriginal Peoples and its mandate, new strategies to strengthen First Nation governance, and the establishment of the first urban reserve in Canada. In 1991, as part of the Spicer Commission on Canadian Unity, Mr. Lafond managed the provincial consultations in Regina, Saskatchewan, which included a thorough community consultation process.
Mr. Lafond has been a strong builder and supporter of community partnerships across sectors and groups to achieve common goals. These include coalition-building with Métis, non-Aboriginal and other community representatives, leading to successes like the White Buffalo Youth Lodge in downtown Saskatoon, and other lasting partnerships for change such as the first urban Aboriginal youth centre in Canada.
Mr. Lafond has a Bachelor’s degree in Education from the University of Saskatchewan.
