Honouring Indigenous Voices in Your Community
National Day for Truth and Reconciliation (Orange Shirt Day), occurring annually on September 30th, is an important time to listen, learn, and reflect. But Indigenous voices shouldn’t only be heard once a year. For event planners, booking Indigenous keynote speakers is a powerful way to keep essential conversations going all year-round. These speakers bring inspiring stories, cultural insights, and practical lessons that connect with audiences in meaningful and lasting ways.
That’s why we’re proud to spotlight some of Canada’s most sought-after Indigenous keynote speakers. These leaders bring powerful stories and fresh perspectives to every stage. Whether you’re programming a corporate conference, an educational gathering, or a community celebration, these speakers capture audiences through powerful storytelling.
What is National Day for Truth and Reconciliation?
6 Indigenous Keynote Speakers to Book
Ashley Callingbull
Actor | Model | Advocate
As the first Indigenous woman to be crowned Mrs. Universe, Ashley Callingbull uses her platform to amplify conversations around representation, resilience, and giving back. Her keynotes combine personal storytelling with advocacy, showing audiences how to rise from adversity and use their voices for change.
What event planners love: Ashley’s talks blend inspiration with action—leaving audiences motivated to challenge stereotypes, embrace inclusion, and celebrate Indigenous excellence.
Jesse Thistle
Historian | Bestselling Author | Educator
Jesse Thistle is a Métis-Cree historian and the bestselling author of From the Ashes, a memoir that has touched readers across Canada. From his lived experience of homelessness and addiction to his groundbreaking research on intergenerational trauma, Jesse offers audiences both personal resilience and deep historical insight.
What event planners love: Jesse’s ability to connect scholarship with storytelling makes complex issues accessible—and deeply human—for any audience.
Larissa Crawford
Researcher | Advocate | Entrepreneur
With backgrounds in both anti-racism and Indigenous research, Larissa Crawford is one of Canada’s most dynamic voices on reconciliation and social justice. Her talks equip audiences with tangible skills to advance reconciliation and solidarity in their organizations and communities.
What event planners love: Larissa blends passion with practical frameworks, leaving attendees not just inspired but ready to take meaningful action.
Sage Paul
Designer | Advocate | Creative Director, Indigenous Fashion Week Toronto
Sage Paul is an award-winning artist and fashion leader redefining what representation looks like in the cultural industries. As the Artistic Director of Indigenous Fashion Week Toronto, she highlights Indigenous creativity while challenging systemic barriers in the fashion world.
What event planners love: Sage brings creativity, activism, and cultural identity together in talks that resonate with audiences far beyond fashion.
Kendra Jessie
Two-Spirit Advocate | Speaker | Athlete
Kendra Jessie is a two-spirit speaker and mentor whose work focuses on identity, resilience, and Indigenous youth empowerment. Her powerful keynotes combine lived experience with advocacy, offering audiences new perspectives on inclusion, belonging, and strength.
What event planners love: Kendra’s authenticity and energy make her an inspiring choice for events looking to foster belonging and highlight diverse Indigenous voices.
Scott Wabano
Fashion Leader | 2SLGBTQIA+ Advocate | Speaker
As a 2-Spirit Cree stylist and designer, Scott Wabano brings both artistry and advocacy to the stage. Through fashion and storytelling, Scott speaks about identity, representation, and the power of embracing who you are.
What event planners love: Scott connects with audiences through creativity, authenticity, and bold storytelling—making their talks both inspiring and unforgettable.
Why Indigenous Keynote Speakers Matter
Bringing Indigenous voices to the stage is more than an act of representation. It’s an opportunity to foster real connection, build empathy, and inspire action. For event planners, booking Indigenous keynote speakers is a meaningful way to ensure your program reflects the values of inclusion, reconciliation, and authentic storytelling beyond Indigenous Speakers for National Day for Truth and Reconciliation.
Are you ready to book? Then contact us today to find the right Indigenous keynote speaker for your next event.
FAQs: Indigenous Keynote Speakers to Book Beyond National Day for Truth and Reconciliation
Why should I book an Indigenous keynote speaker for my event?
You should book Indigenous keynote speakers because they bring powerful stories, cultural insights, and fresh perspectives that resonate with audiences across industries. Their talks go beyond inspiration—they spark conversations that foster inclusion, reconciliation, and lasting change.
What types of events benefit from Indigenous keynote speakers?
From corporate conferences and leadership summits to educational gatherings and community events, Indigenous speakers add depth, authenticity, and impact to any program.
How do Indigenous keynote speakers connect with diverse audiences?
Through storytelling, advocacy, and lived experience, these speakers connect across industries and demographics. Their ability to balance personal narratives with universal lessons makes their keynotes both relatable and memorable.
Can I book Indigenous speakers outside of the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation?
Absolutely. While September 30 is an important date of reflection, Indigenous voices bring value to events all year round. Indigenous speakers help organizations build stronger cultures of inclusion and understanding.
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