Description

Building off last year’s conversations, the London Chamber of Commerce is hosting Ask the Experts on June 4, 2026, with a new theme focusing on Indigenous entrepreneurs in the local creative industry. We are working with the team at Indigenous London Arts (London Arts Council) to put together a keynote presentation and subsequent panel discussion discussing our experiences and looking at the best practices for working with creative entrepreneurs who are Indigenous. The Chamber will also provide a candid look into London’s Reconciliation Plan and the actions - or inactions - towards the approved strategies, what the implementation plan could look like, and how the Chamber’s plans to act. 

We would be honoured to have you join as a panellist in the discussion, facilitated by Board Member Katie Wilhelm.
About the Keynote:

Emily Schuyler - The new Specialist, Indigenous London Arts at the London Arts Council
She is an emerging multi-media artist from Oneida Nation of the Thames, which is located in Ontario Canada. Schuyler received a certificate and an advanced diploma in Fine Arts from Fanshawe College. Schuyler was also the recipient of both the Bob and Shelly Siskind Visual Arts Award and The Mackie Cryderman Award for Excellence in the Arts. Schuyler has received her Bachelor of studio arts degree from the Institute of American Indian arts in Santa Fe New Mexico. Schuyler has exhibited internationally, a two artist show titled Preserve, 2019 in London Ontario.
Emily Schuyler creates mixed media works that provide an intimate narrative into her cultural traditions, personal stories and lived experiences. Schuyler continues to create work focused on her cultural heritage, and what it means to be a contemporary Indigenous artist.

About the Facilitator:

Katie Wilhelm - Indigenous Designer and Consultant
Katie Wilhelm, RGD (she/her) is an award-winning Indigenous designer and consultant based in London, Ontario. Katie is a proud Indigenous woman from the Chippewas of Nawash First Nation at Neyaashiinigmiing. Prior to founding her own design practice, Katie spent more than ten years specializing in corporate communications, specifically in local economic development. Katie is a leader in the local arts and culture community, having worked in London’s creative industry since 2009. 

A champion for the Indigenous community, she continuously looks to inspire others to create a colourful future for Turtle Island. Learn more at www.katiewilhelm.design.