Tiara Folkes is Manager of Indigenous – Public Policy at TC Energy, where she leads strategic engagement at the intersection of Indigenous rights, major project development, and federal policy. A proud member of the Piikani Nation, she brings a decade of experience across Parliament Hill, the federal public service, and the private sector.  

Tiara began her career in federal politics, working in ministerial offices at Employment, Workforce Development and Labour, Indigenous and Northern Affairs Canada, followed by Natural Resources Canada where she supported complex files related to Indigenous consultation and major project approvals, including work tied to the Trans Mountain Expansion. She then moved into the public service at Employment and Social Development Canada, where she focused on Indigenous recruitment, retention, and advancement.  

At TC Energy, Tiara advances Indigenous equity participation and strengthens partnerships with Indigenous communities across Canada. Her work focuses on aligning corporate strategy with evolving policy and regulatory frameworks, including Indigenous loan guarantees, major project permitting, and economic reconciliation. She is known for translating complex policy into practical strategies that deliver meaningful outcomes for Indigenous communities and industry.  

Tiara is a sought-after speaker and moderator on Indigenous-led development, economic reconciliation, and the future of Canada’s energy sector. Based in Ottawa, she is also a mother of two and shares her perspective on leadership, policy, and working parenthood through her growing digital platform.