The First Nations Economic Forum is an event you won't want to miss!
It’s scheduled for the 9th of August so it aligns with the United Nations International Day of the World's Indigenous Peoples. 🌏
The event is dedicated to celebrating positive community development and tackling critical tough issues like identity fraud, all while fostering growth and self-determination.
Event Schedule (so far):
11:00 AM - 11:05 AM
Welcome
11:05 AM - 11:25 AM
Keynote Presentation: Understanding Aboriginal Identity Fraud
11:25 AM - 11:45 AM
Panel Discussion: The Impact of Identity Fraud on Indigenous Economies
Drew Hayden Taylor
Nathan Moran
11:45 AM - 11:50 AM
Break
11:50 AM - 12:10 PM
Celebrating Indigenous Entrepreneurship
12:10 PM - 12:40 PM
First Nations Mentor Blaze
12:40 PM - 12:45 PM
Break
12:45 PM - 01:05 PM
Workshop: Strategies to Combat Identity Fraud
Matthew Karakoulakis
01:05 PM - 01:25 PM
Panel Discussion: Governance and Policy Solutions
Jason-Urranndulla Davis
Lois Peeler
01:25 PM - 01:30 PM
Closing Remarks and Future Directions
Victoria Grieves Williams
Why You Should Attend:
This forum is an invaluable opportunity to learn from and network with community members and Allies, including entrepreneurs, policy makers and activists.
Engage in meaningful discussions about community development, social challenges faced by First Nations and explore innovative solutions.
Featured Sessions:
Understanding Aboriginal Identity Fraud: A dive into the complexities and impacts of identity fraud on Indigenous communities.
Governance and Policy Solutions: Discussions on how to create robust systems to protect Indigenous identities and resources.
Special Highlight: The event includes a First Nations Mentor Blaze, a unique session where attendees can interact with each other, gaining insights and increasing your network.
Register Now!
Don't miss out on this impactful event by registering today to secure your spot (limited spaces) and be part of the change toward empowerment and integrity for First Nations.
👉 Register for the First Nations Economic Forum
Landmark Conviction: A Step Forward in Combating Indigenous Identity Fraud
Recently, the conviction of Karima Manji for defrauding Inuit organisations has set a significant precedent in the fight against Indigenous identity fraud worldwide.
And if you don’t know, Manji falsely claimed Inuit status for her twin daughters to get over $158,000 in financial benefits… but was sentenced to three years in federal prison, a sentence that far exceeded the Crown's recommendation to deter other fraudsters and to set a precedent.
But the gravity of Manji's crime highlights the critical need for stringent measures to safeguard Indigenous identities and resources because identity fraud not only causes financial losses but also undermines efforts to close the socio-economic gaps faced by First Nations.
Furthermore, the Australian Institute of Criminology estimates the annual cost of identity fraud in Australia to be over $3.1 billion so Indigenous identity fraud likely contributes to this figure, which diverts resources meant for genuine beneficiaries and eroding trust in support systems.
Thus, the Manji case serves as a wake-up call for governments who control First Nations to enhance verification processes and enforcement mechanisms.
And by protecting Indigenous identities ensures that resources reach the rightful recipients to foster genuine progress toward closing the disparity gap.
So join us at the First Nations Economic Forum to learn more about these critical issues and be part of the solution!