Pioneering Sustainable Economic Prosperity and Skills Development
Our Story
Founded in 2014, K’awat’si Economic Development LP (KEDC) embodies the Gwa’sala-‘Nakwaxda’xw Nations’ vision of sustainable economic growth. Our mission is to create and support ventures that yield not just revenue, but cultural significance and environmental sustainability. KEDC’s commitment extends beyond business profitability; we focus on enriching our community with essential skills and comprehensive development, fostering a legacy of prosperity aligned with our traditional values.
KEDC is located on the traditional territories of the
Kwakiutl people and Gwa’sala-‘Nakwaxda’xw Nations.
Our Team
Our executives bring a diverse array of expertise across all business lines, united by a shared commitment to sustainable growth and community empowerment. They are not just leaders in their fields but also dedicated stewards of the Gwa’sala-‘Nakwaxda’xw heritage, ensuring that every business decision aligns with our deep-rooted values and strategic vision.
Cyrus Singh
CEO
Jorawar Brah
Director of Human Resources
Albert Blackford
General Manager, K’awat’si Fisheries
David Steele
General Manager, Gwanak Resources
Gordon Black
Director, Consulting & Management Services
Eddie Walkus
General Manager, K’awat’si Marine
Peter Jansen
General Manager, K’awat’si Construction Company
Robert Hodson
General Manager, Kwa’lilas Hotel
Norman Napoleon
Director, Community Engagement
Careers with KEDC
Interested in Joining Our Team? View our current Career Opportunities
Roop Virk
Roop brings to KEDC over two decades of senior expertise in banking, project financing, and international trade.
Roop brings to KEDC over two decades of senior expertise in banking, project financing, and international trade. His advisory roles with prominent timber mills and port corporations, along with his experience in exporting commodities across the Pacific Rim, have significantly contributed to the success of BC First Nations–Corporate Business Joint Ventures. His strategic advisory to governmental officials and businesses in economic trade reflects his profound knowledge and commitment to fostering Indigenous community partnerships.
Janet Hanuse
A member of both the Gwa’sala-‘Nak’waxda’xw and ‘Wuikinukv Nations, Janet Hanuse’s leadership flourishes from a deep-seated passion for program accessibility and community empowerment.
A member of both the Gwa’sala-‘Nak’waxda’xw and ‘Wuikinukv Nations, Janet Hanuse’s leadership flourishes from a deep-seated passion for program accessibility and community empowerment. Her work, deeply influenced by the resilience of her parents, residential school survivors, is a tribute to past, present, and future Indigenous generations. As the Vice President for Engagement and UNDRIP Implementation at the Royal BC Museum, Janet’s academic achievements and imminent Master’s degree in Executive Leadership from Royal Roads University propel her to drive authentic reconciliation and Indigenous rights advocacy.
Lisa (Elizabeth) Swain
From the Walkus family of the Gwa’Sala-Nakwaxda’xw Nations, Lisa Swain brings heartfelt dedication to the KEDC Board of Directors.
From the Walkus family of the Gwa’Sala-Nakwaxda’xw Nations, Lisa Swain brings heartfelt dedication to the KEDC Board of Directors. Armed with a Bachelor of Business Administration in Accounting and practical experience at Mid Island Co-op, Lisa’s acumen in financials bolsters KEDC’s economic strategies. Despite personal loss, her resolve remains unshaken, channeling her love for numbers into fruitful endeavors for the Gwa’Sala-‘Nakwaxda’xw First Nation’s prosperity.
Norman Galis
With over thirteen years of teaching experience, Norman continues to grow his knowledge in the field of Indigenous Economic Development and believes in the vision of the Gwa’sala-‘Nakwaxda’xw Nation.
Norman is a member of the Gwa’sala-‘Nakwaxda’xw Nations. On his grandfather’s side, he comes from the ‘Nakwaxda’xw Tamtamłal’s ‘Nami’ma (“The Earth Shakers”). Norman is a hereditary Chief and the current Chairman of the Board of Directors for the K’awat’si Economic Development LP (KEDC). He joined the Board of Directors in 2019.
With over thirteen years of teaching experience, Norman continues to grow his knowledge in the field of Indigenous Economic Development and believes in the vision of the Gwa’sala-‘Nakwaxda’xw Nation.
Pack the Pantry
Join us for a day of community and compassion at the KEDC Pack the Pantry Community BBQ. Come hungry, bring your giving spirit, and don’t forget to bring along a bag filled with non-perishable goods. Together, we’ll create a positive impact in our local community.
