Winona Lafreniere is an Indigenous leader, knowledge keeper, and reconciliation strategist whose life is rooted in the living traditions, ceremonies, and medicinal teachings passed down from her ancestors. With over 25 years of cross-sector experience spanning clean energy, environmental stewardship, government, not-for-profit and innovation, Winona walks the path between industry circles and the sacred, braiding the wisdom of both into every space she enters. 

Guided by principles of respect, reciprocity, and relationship, Winona honours her responsibility as a carrier of Anishinaabe knowledge ways by creating opportunities for others to reconnect with the land. Through practices such as smudging and learning circles, she holds space for healing, clarity, and sacred grounding, reminding us that enhanced leadership flows from a centered spirit.  

At this gathering of Indigenous Women in Leadership, Winona offers a welcome presence in the Wellness Room, inviting participants to pause, breathe, and return to themselves between sessions. Her medicine if both ancient and timely as she believes we lead best when we are grounded in who we are and where we come from. 

Driven by a passion to create pathways for future generations, Winona brings her expertise in community building, reconciliation strategy, and business development to a diverse portfolio of clients and projects, weaving cultural wisdom and practice into every engagement. Winona turns strategic relationships into tangible business results. At her core, Winona lives to give.