About KEDC

k’awat’si Economic Development LP (KEDC)

Realizing revenue, prosperity, skills and development for the community

The K’awat’si Economic Development LP (KEDC) was founded in 2014 to capitalize on a strong desire by the community to explore and grow opportunities. KEDC’s mandate is to investigate and realize revenue, prosperity, skills and development for the benefit of the community. KEDC is tasked with creating, operating and supporting businesses that will be profitable, environmentally sustainable and culturally significant, respecting the unique cultural values of the Gwa’sala-‘Nakwaxda’xw people.

The K’awat’si Economic Development LP (KEDC) logo is comprised of three main parts that are very important to the history and culture of the Gwa’sala-‘Nakwaxda’xw Nations. The painted bentwood box (k̓awat̕si) is what families and communities have used to house their treasures for time immemorial. The Copper that is being held by the k̓awat̕si is one of the most sacred items that our families hold dear. it means many things, not least of which is a sign of wealth, prestige and power. Finally, the Sisiutl is one of the most powerful crests and mythological creatures in the mythology of the Kwakwaka’wakw, it is a protector and can be a fierce warrior, in our logo it has embraced the k̓awat̕si and shows that it is ready to protect it from all who might try to do harm.

Meet the KEDC Management Team

Cyrus Singh

CEO

executiveassistant@kedc.ca

Cyrus is a dynamic and dedicated executive leader, effective in building collaborative networks and relationships while ensuring business goals are achieved. As an interest-based facilitator and result-oriented project manager, achieving organizational goals while enriching stakeholder relations are a hallmark of past successes.

With a diverse background in business development and analytics; new challenges are an engaging and welcomed opportunity to apply a breadth of strong problem-solving skills.

Jorawar Brah

Director of Human Resources

hr@kedc.ca

Jo is an experienced Director of Human Resources with a demonstrated history of accomplishment in the retail industry; skilled in Human Resources, Management, Time Management, Leadership, and Human Resources Information Systems (HRIS).

Jo’s studies include an MSc focused on International Business from the University of Hertfordshire and an MBA from Vancouver Island University.

Albert Blackford

Manager, k'awat'si Fisheries

aquaculturemanager@kawatsifisheries.ca

Meet Albert Blackford, a seasoned professional in the seafood processing industry with a career spanning over 30 years in British Columbia. Since March 2023, he has been dedicated to contributing to the nation’s growth and success in the Shellfish Industry. “I do this job because I have a lot of passion for seafood, and it makes this job exciting.

When not marketing seafood, you can find me walking the beaches with my dog, or just enjoying time with my family.” With valuable knowledge and experience in the marketing of clams and oysters and building shellfish farms – Albert is a key part in the growth of K’awat’si Shellfish.

David Steele

General Manager, Gwanak Resources

gm@gwanakresources.ca

Dave Joined Gwa’Nak resources in March of 2022 taking on the role of Manager. Dave believes that forestry activities within the traditional territory of the Gwasala-‘Naxwaxda’xw will provide economic, social and cultural benefits to the nation in perpetuity. Dave is dedicated to advancing forest stewardship nested within the cultural values of the Gwasala-‘Naxwaxda’xw” first nation, ‘Nusəns Sax Gwigilas’”.

Forestry-related businesses will continue to provide meaningful employment opportunities that not only pay well but give people the opportunity to reconnect with their traditional lands with boots on the ground. Dave began his career on the coast of BC in 2002 and has had the privilege of working in forests ranging from the southern tip of Vancouver Island to Haida Gwaii.

Gordon Black

Director, Consulting & Management Services

gordon.black@kawatsiconsulting.ca

Eddie Walkus

Manager, k'awat'si Marine

eddie@kedc.ca

Eddie Walkus is a dedicated team member, effectively managing our K’awat’si Marine Services department and assisting with our K’awat’si tours.

Eddie’s connection to Gwa’sala Nakwaxda’xw Territories runs deep. His family lineage can be traced back to Robert Walkus Sr. of Takush and Violet Walkus of Ba’as, further solidifying his deep-rooted affinity for the sea.

From a young age, Eddie immersed himself in the world of commercial fishing, working alongside his great-grandfather. This upbringing instilled in him a profound understanding of the water and a strong desire to pursue a career that pays homage to his cherished memories and the lifelong lessons he learned.

In his role, Eddie not only shares his extensive knowledge with guests and clients, but he also builds meaningful connections within the community.

Eddie’s dedication to preserving and honouring his cultural teachings makes him an invaluable member of our team.

Eddie Walkus is an integral part of our organization. We are grateful for his passion, expertise, and commitment to providing exceptional service to K’awat’si Marine Services and the community at large.

Meet the KEDC Board Directors

Lisa
Swain

Norman
Galis

Roop
Virk

Janet
Hanuse