Following a successful first edition last summer, Mila was proud to welcome the participants of the second cohort of the Indigenous Pathfinders in AI for the launch of the program on May 29, 2025.
In collaboration with Indspire, this program empowers Indigenous talent to delve into the world of artificial intelligence (AI). Through hands-on workshops and collaborative activities, participants design real-world projects that leverage AI to address meaningful, community-driven challenges.
Meet the 21 members of the second cohort, a new group of changemakers who are shaping a more inclusive tech future rooted in Indigenous knowledge.
Justin Almazan
Dr. Justin Almazan is a classical musician and recent graduate of McGill University. He has performed with orchestras such as the Montreal, Toronto, and Vancouver Symphony orchestras. In the fall of 2025, Justin is excited to pursue computer science studies at the University of British Columbia.
Francis Arquette
Francis Arquette, a member of the Mohawk Nation, is committed to expanding his knowledge in information technology and continues to actively learn and master new technologies over time.
Susan Champagne Shapiro
Susan is the founder of SCS Creative Studio, a business rooted in creativity, community, and connection. With a background in education, leadership, and event coordination, she supports startups, especially Indigenous entrepreneurs, through social media, web design, and event planning. As Chair of the Gimli Red River Métis Local, she champions cultural preservation and inclusive community spaces. A nature lover with three beloved fur babies, Susan is now exploring how technology can uplift Indigenous voices through the Indigenous Pathfinders AI program.
Shannon Contois
My name is Shannon Contois, and I’m excited to return for a second year. As a proud Red River Metis and Anishinaabe Mother and Grandmother from Winnipeg, MB, my family is my heart, inspiring me to learn, grow, and give back to the community.
Over the past year, I have gained more knowledge in both IT and AI, taking on new challenges and experiences. This has deepened my passion for AI even more, and the impact AI can have on Indigenous communities. Last year sparked my interest in the importance of ethics and safety in AI, and how important it is to ensure that these innovations serve all people equitably and responsibly.
As we begin this second year, I’m very grateful for the opportunity to attend Mila and work on another project. I’m looking forward to reconnecting with past mentors and meeting new staff and cohort members as we collaborate on new projects this year.
Olivia Craggs
Olivia (Cree) is a biochemistry and public policy graduate whose lived experience as a caregiver and first-generation learner fuels her commitment to systemic change. With a background in cancer research and advancing First Nations data sovereignty through the First Nations Data Governance Strategy (FNDGS), she brings both grounded perspective and strategic insight to her work. As a participant in Mila’s Indigenous Pathfinders in AI program, Olivia is dedicated to building ethical intersections between AI and Indigenous worldviews, centering sovereignty, equity, and Indigenous leadership in the future of technology.
Xavier Desroches Borelly
I’m a proud Métis and Colombian student in my final year of Computer Science. I’m passionate about the intersection of technology, equity, and community impact. As I continue to grow in the field of AI, I’m especially driven by the opportunity to use innovation to support and uplift Indigenous communities. For me, it is about more than just building tools. It is about ensuring that the voices, needs, and perspectives of underrepresented groups are part of the future we are creating. I’m excited to keep learning, collaborating, and working toward a future where technology empowers meaningful change.
Jacqueline Duttenhoffer
Jacqueline Duttenhoffer (Red River Métis) is a mom, artist, and dedicated community advocate currently serving as a Council Member for the Otipemisiwak Métis Government – Fort Edmonton District 9 and President of the Heart of the City Festival Society of Edmonton. After completing an Indigenous-focused, entry-level tech program, Jacqueline was inspired by the power of technology to create meaningful change in underserved communities. This experience motivated her to continue building her skills and network within the tech sector. As a single mother and Indigenous woman, she values autonomy and the balance between work and home life. Jacqueline is passionate about the potential of AI to uplift communities and is excited to continue her learning journey alongside like-minded individuals through the Indigenous Pathfinders in AI program.
Michael Elliot
Mick, ᐅᑭᒪᐘᑎᐠ (Okimâwâtik), is a two-spirited Okanese First Nation citizen and Business PhD student researching institutional transformation through Indigenous methodologies. His work examines the complex relationship between Indigenous Knowledge systems and neoliberal worldviews. Mick believes that AI technologies informed by Indigenous frameworks can be tools to address socioeconomic divides and create pathways toward greater equity.
Noah Favel
Noah Favel is from Poundmaker Cree Nation, Treaty 6. After completing a Bachelor of Arts in History at McGil University, Noah obtained a Juris Doctor at Queen's University. Before joining Mila's Indigenous Pathfinders in AI, Noah worked at a law firm that only represented Indigenous communities in western Canada. His legal work focused on suing the government for breach of treaty and upholding Indigenous peoples' constitutional rights. Noah is interested in applying AI to Indigenous law to provide more ethical and competitive legal services for Indigenous communities.
Daniel Forman
Daniel Foreman is registered in Region 4 of the Métis Nation of Alberta. He is a multidisciplinary artist focused on film and television direction and production, screenwriting and songwriting. Daniel has won awards with children's animation programming and screened around the world. He is also a marketing manager with decades of experience in the business world centered around copywriting, design, e-commerce, sales, SEO and social media. Daniel has a very strong interest in learning about and incorporating AI into both his creative and professional pursuits.
Allesandro Galasso
As an artificial intelligence student with a passion for advancing Canada’s AI landscape, I am dedicated to acquiring skills to drive innovation and growth. Leveraging upon sales and business-to-business relationship skills, I seek to foster meaningful partnerships with Indigenous communities and stakeholders across public and private sectors, leveraging my expertise to build collaborative, impactful, and sustainable relationships that empower communities and promote success for Canada in the AI scope.
Rune Hartgerink
Aaniin Shikwa-giin! Rune Hartgerink miinaawa indigokwe ndizhnikaaz. Lheidli T’enneh Keyoh gaye Moonyang ndoonsaa. Cote Anishnaabek indibendaagoz.
My name is Rune Hartgerink, I am a two-spirit person, I use the pronouns indigo-kwe in Anishnaabemowin, and he/they pronouns in English. I am a citizen of the Coté Anishinaabek but I was born and raised on the traditional homelands of the Lheidli T’enneh peoples in central Northern British Columbia and now reside in Moonyang/Tiohtià:ke for University. I just finished my second year at McGill studying a double major in Arts in Archeology and Sociology, with a minor in Indigenous Studies.
Jason Kicknosway
Jason Kicknosway is a dedicated and adaptable professional with over 20 years of experience spanning customer service, technical training, and software testing. Currently a PLATO Software Testing Apprentice, he brings a sharp eye for detail and a passion for quality to every project. A proud U.S. Marine Corps veteran, Jason thrives in high-pressure environments and leads with integrity and resilience. His journey has taken him from supporting guests at Courtyard Marriott to mentoring first-generation and Indigenous college students, and delivering hands-on technical training as a Field Service Engineer. With certifications in software testing, aviation electronics, and digital logic, he’s committed to lifelong learning and growth. Beyond work, Jason is deeply involved in his community, volunteering at Pow Wows and educational events. He’s driven by a genuine desire to help others, solve problems, and make a meaningful impact—both in the workplace and beyond.
Ryan Kirk
I'm Ryan Kirk — a Métis father of twin 12-year-old girls, proud dog dad to three golden retrievers, and a former firefighter/paramedic. I developed Homefound Kinship Build to manage my PTSD through AI-supported, environmentally friendly housing designed to help regulate anxiety, depression, and trauma-related symptoms.
Justin Langan
Justin R. Langan is a 26-year-old internationally recognized Indigenous youth activist from the rural community of Swan River, Manitoba. He has a B.A. in Political Science from the University of Manitoba and is the Executive Director of O'KANATA. A 2024-2025 Parliamentary Intern, he plans to attend graduate school to advocate for Indigenous and human rights globally.
Colton Pelletier
Hi I'm Colton Pelletier, an Indigenous artist, college student, graphic designer, and small business owner from Long Plain First Nation, Treaty 1 territory. In my free time I enjoy walking my dog, skateboarding, playing video games, watching movies, listening to music, making clothes for my small business, and cooking.
Matthew Sanspareil
Hey there! I’m Matthew Sanspareil. I’m currently in my third year of my undergraduate degree at the University of British Columbia, studying Computer Science. I’m Tłı̨chǫ from the Northwest Territories and also grew up in Calgary. In a past life, I was a plumber; then spark pushed me to head back to school. I’ve always been a curious person, and these days I’m especially interested in how we can use AI to support Indigenous communities.
Outside of school, I’m usually up to something. My favourite pastimes are snowboarding and Muay Thai. Hiking and being out in nature is something I really enjoy. You can catch me with a book once in a while, too. And of course, making software.
Taylor Sparkingeyes
Taylor is a Cree woman from Goodfish Lake, AB in Treaty 6 territory. She is a mother of two brilliant boys. She holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology with a Business minor from Concordia University College of Edmonton.
Taylor has experience leading and conducting community-based research projects with a focus on community engagement. She understands the power held in stories, and in knowledge gathering that can initiate positive changes. Taylor commits herself to uphold and assert Our Rights over Our Data through Indigenous Data Sovereignty.
Taylor is very passionate about working with Indigenous Peoples and communities to leave a positive impact on the world for her children and the next seven generations to come. Taylor loves being outdoors and spending time with her family and friends.
Jacob Seguin
Jacob Seguin is proudly Ojibwe from Lake Helen, part of the Red Rock reserve. He studies computer engineering at Concordia University. His areas of interest include language revitalization, clean drinking water initiatives and on-the-land cultural programs. In his free time he enjoys camping, coding personal projects, and dirt biking.
Brandon Wright
Brandon Wright has built a career in health and safety while also developing strong skills in web development and a solid foundation in data analytics. This diverse skill set allows for a holistic approach to challenges and the ability to leverage data for improved outcomes.
