Lennard, (Traditional name of Suxwsxwwels, meaning Grizzly Man) brings over 30 years of natural resources and business experience into his current roles. He is a Registered Professional Forester, a member of the Nlaka’pamux First Nation, and CEO of the BC First Nations Forestry Council.
As the original stewards, and with a knowledge that goes back generations, First Nations are key players in the transformation of the forest sector within their traditional territories, addressing the economic, social/cultural, and environmental challenges of managing forest lands and resources. Lennard is actively involved in the resource sector within his territory as well as throughout Canada and the world.
Living in balance, Lennard carries the corporate knowledge of his nation and continues to practice its protocols and traditions. His role as an Indigenous professional forester has opened doors in Indigenous Governance, provincial and federal government, industry, academia, and forest certification.
Lennard has served — and continues to serve — on many boards of societies and companies:
• Chair, Scw’exmx Tribal Council
• Director, Sustainable Forestry Initiative (SFI)
• Director, Project Learning Tree (PLT) Canada
• Director, National Aboriginal Forestry Association
• Director, Nicola Similkameen Innovative Forestry Society
• Director, Nicola Valley Institute of Technology Board of Governors
• Director, Interior Loggers Association.