Meet Our Team
Angela’s career originated in social work, where she gained education and experience advocating for others and learning the barriers that Indigenous families may face. Angela became involved with Victim Services, the foster care system, and cultural initiatives.
As a strong advocate for mental health, sports and youth empowerment, Angela is Vice Chair of the Some Other Solutions board, and helps to provide opportunities for Indigenous youth. Her involvement includes coaching the All Girls Huskies hockey team, managing Wood Buffalo Native Hockey teams, and sponsoring athletes.
Angela’s passion lies in building a stronger community, fostering stronger families, and empowering the next generation. Her dedication to these causes is a driving force in her life, and she continues to work tirelessly to make a meaningful impact.
Email: ed@naaba.ca
With a diploma in Business Administration (Executive Assistant), Maddy is an Indigenous business professional who comes from generations of family-owned businesses on both sides of her family. This background has provided her with a strong understanding of the dedication, relationships, and long-term commitment required to build and sustain successful businesses. Her experience working within her family’s businesses fostered a people-first approach grounded in consistency and the creation of welcoming, supportive environments.
Passionate about supporting Indigenous entrepreneurs and business owners, Maddy focuses on building genuine relationships and delivering positive, engaging member experiences. She values being actively involved in the community and is excited to contribute to Indigenous business success while advancing economic reconciliation across Northeastern Alberta.
Email: membership@naaba.ca
Originally from Fort Chipewyan, Alberta, Vanessa is a proud member of the Athabasca Chipewyan First Nation. She is deeply connected to her community and believes that family and culture shape who we are and guide the work we do. She approaches leadership with compassion, respect, and humility, believing that the strongest outcomes are achieved by listening first, building trust, and working together.
Vanessa recently began her Master of Arts in Community Development at the University of Victoria, where she is furthering her knowledge of Indigenous-led development, community capacity building, and sustainable economic growth. Her emerging thesis explores the relationship between education, Indigenous economic development, and community prosperity. She believes education is one of the greatest investments we can make in our people, providing the knowledge and confidence needed to create lasting change. She is equally passionate about strengthening Indigenous businesses and local economies, recognizing that economic development is fundamental to self-determination, resilient communities, and creating opportunities for future generations to succeed while remaining connected to their cultures and homelands.
Vanessa is honoured to be part of the NAABA team, where she will be supporting Indigenous entrepreneurs, businesses, and communities through programs, partnerships, and grant initiatives that foster sustainable economic growth. She believes that when we invest in people, education, and Indigenous business, we are investing in stronger Nations, stronger communities, and a brighter future for generations to come.
Email: programs@naaba.ca
