Last week, Energy for a Secure Future (ESF) participated in the First Nations Major Projects Coalition Conference, a key gathering that brings together Indigenous leaders, industry, and policymakers to advance collaboration on major projects across Canada.
ESF Chair Shannon Joseph moderated a focused and highly interactive session titled “On the Frontlines: Global Data and Energy Security.” Designed as a small-group, the panel brought together practitioners, community representatives, and industry leaders to test what works, examine challenges, and explore new ideas for building effective partnerships in Indigenous, community, and equity-participation settings.
She was joined by an accomplished group of speakers, including Henry Liu from the Embassy of Taiwan to Canada, Chief Isaac Laboucan-Avirom of Woodland Cree First Nation, Crystal Smith, ESF Fellow and Advisory Council Member with the Federal Major Projects Office, and Susanna Zagar, President and CEO of the Canadian Gas Association.
The discussion centered on how Canada’s traditional energy strengths, abundant resources, reliable systems, and strong export capacity, are evolving in a more data-driven global economy. As energy and data security increasingly converge, governments and industry are rethinking infrastructure, resilience, and long-term planning. Canada’s cool climate and dependable power systems position it well for both secure data hosting and expanded natural gas exports, creating new opportunities in global markets.
A key focus of the session was the role of Indigenous nations in this evolving landscape. Panelists emphasized the growing opportunity for Indigenous communities to act not only as hosts of major infrastructure, but as partners and equity participants in projects that underpin both energy and data systems. Realizing this potential, however, will require clear and consistent policy frameworks, credible and trust-based partnerships, and sustained investment.
The panel also weighed the risks and rewards associated with meeting rising global demand, particularly as international partners look to Canada for reliable, long-term energy supply. Discussions highlighted the importance of aligning domestic capabilities with global needs while ensuring that development delivers tangible benefits for communities across the country.
ESF is proud to contribute to these conversations and to support efforts that strengthen collaboration, advance responsible development, and position Canada as a leader in both energy and data security.
Meeting for Indigenous organizations with Taiwanese businesses and diplomats
ESF also hosted a meeting for Indigenous organizations with Taiwanese businesses and diplomats.
