Sts'ailes Nation member and Indigenous Business Leadership Executive MBA (IBL EMBA) graduate, Melennia Point's capstone project focused on economic reconciliation in Canada. Her research revealed that there is increasing recognition of Indigenous rights and title, however, meaningful reconciliation must come with economic reconciliation.

Point also reveals that definitions and implementation of economic reconciliation varies, with cultural differences between Indigenous and non-Indigenous views being a big challenge to moving the process forward. Point’s project outlines workable current approaches and best practices to economic reconciliation along with integration that moves beyond politically novel ideas and superficial actions such as land acknowledgements, one-time grants and pilot projects.

Beedie School of Business Associate Dean, Graduate Programs, Dr. Andrew Gemino, praised Point’s scholarly activities as well as the leadership she had with her classmates.

Says Gemino, “Melennia is an upstanding member of the IBL community and consistently demonstrated leadership, understanding, and compassion for her classmates throughout the IBL EMBA program.”

“My time at the university has been an extraordinary adventure filled with transformative experiences and cherished memories. From engaging in stimulating discussions with classmates to collaborating on groundbreaking research projects, every moment has been a stepping stone towards my intellectual and personal growth. The university has not only equipped me with the knowledge and skills necessary for my field but has also instilled in me a deep appreciation for critical thinking, lifelong learning, and the pursuit of excellence,” says Point.

Point is committed to creating a positive change in both her personal and professional activities through her volunteer activities with the Vancouver Aboriginal Friendship Centre Society. She also plans to pursue a PhD to continue economic reconciliation research while using her respect for Indigenous resilience, strength and wisdom to build a just and equitable future.