In January 2023 I was rounding four years at McMaster University, leading Indigenous Student Services, and I couldn’t shake the feeling that it was time for a new adventure. Reflecting on my diverse career path over the past 15 years, I realized that the excitement I found in tackling challenges that our communities face and leading teams to solutions was my driving force.
My career journey has taken me across various sectors, each contributing to my growth and resilience. Whether it was navigating the intricate dynamics of academia or spearheading initiatives in government and other organizations to foster systems change, I thrived on the constant learning and problem-solving inherent in each role. I really enjoyed cutting through the tape to get things done and my father always told me it was good to learn about many perspectives to make the changes that need to happen.
Over time, I began think about another way to channel my passion and expertise. The idea of venturing into consulting began to take root.
Spring 2023 marked the beginning of my consulting business, Niibin Advisory Services. The decision to step into this new space was motivated by a desire to share my experience and partner with communities in a more direct and personalized manner. Consulting offered me the platform to immerse myself in diverse spaces, bringing a fresh perspective to each challenge.
The prospect of working closely with Indigenous community organizations, to create tailored solutions and support their goals is really inspiring. Consulting allows me to merge my love for problem-solving with a hands-on approach, making a tangible impact on the clients I serve. Entrepreneurship is new to me, but I love the thrill of charting my course.
In this journey, I’ve come to realize that consulting is about being nimble, adaptable, and unafraid to venture beyond the confines of traditional roles. As I embark on this new chapter, I’m eager to embrace the unknown, learn from every experience, and, most importantly, continue doing what I love—working with community to make a meaningful difference for the future.
