The Fernie Chamber of Commerce welcomed a profound voice for reconciliation and education at its 2025 Annual General Meeting on April 22nd, as Jared Basil, Ktunaxa Cultural Framework Educator, delivered a powerful keynote that challenged, inspired, and empowered the local business community.
With deep roots in community-based education, Jared shared insights from his extensive work in Cultural Safety and Humility Training, a discipline that encourages individuals and organizations to critically reflect on their assumptions, relationships, and environments in order to foster safer, more respectful spaces for Indigenous peoples and all communities.
Jared’s message was clear: reconciliation begins with relationship. Drawing from the Ktunaxa Nation’s Social Sectors Practice Framework, he highlighted how cultural awareness is not just a concept for classrooms or health sectors, but a practical and essential foundation for inclusive workplaces, healthy partnerships, and sustainable community growth.
“Cultural safety is about more than understanding history—it’s about reshaping how we work together today for the benefit of tomorrow,” Jared told the audience.
Throughout his keynote, Jared emphasized the importance of creating culturally safe spaces within businesses, schools, and healthcare environments. He underscored the transformative power of listening and learning—encouraging leaders to create meaningful opportunities for collaboration and education within their organizations.
His work with both health and educational partners has already resulted in significant progress across the Ktunaxa Nation and beyond, helping institutions shift from transactional relationships to long-lasting, trust-based partnerships.
The Fernie Chamber was proud to host Jared and provide its members with the opportunity to reflect on how cultural competency and humility can improve employee relations, enhance service delivery, and contribute to a stronger, more inclusive Fernie.
“We’re honored to have Jared join us and share his insights,” said Wendy McDougall, Chamber Executive Director . “His message is timely, and his vision is one we all benefit from embracing.”
As Fernie looks to the future, Jared Basil’s words remain a call to action: to lead with humility, listen with intention, and work together to build a community where everyone feels respected, valued, and safe.
