First Employ Project Media Release

MEDIA RELEASE

For immediate distribution 

Date: Tuesday, June 11, 2024

Nokee Kwe, the London Chamber of Commerce (LCC), and Libro Credit Union are pioneering the new First Employ Project. It aims to enhance inclusive economic growth by leveraging the Indigenous workforce’s strengths. The project, established in response to local businesses’ struggles recruiting and retaining Indigenous talent, aims to improve hiring norms and create culturally sensitive work environments. By way of a survey, assessing businesses’ reconciliation efforts and developing bespoke resources, the initiative hopes to inspire further workforce development partnerships and similar models elsewhere.

Nokee Kwe and the London Chamber of Commerce (LCC) will collaborate with local Indigenous representatives for the First Employ project, fostering an environment conducive to entrepreneurs, businesses, and talent. This initiative, funded by City of London (COL) Community Innovation Grants Program 2023, the London Community Foundation via LCC, and Libro Credit Union, taps organizational resources to maximize the project’s effectiveness.

Libro Credit Union was the first financial institution to contribute to the First Employ Project, recognizing the potential impact it can have to improve the employment outcomes and the financial well-being for Indigenous people while helping fill local employment gaps and improve business capacity.

Shawn Good, CEO and President of Libro Credit Union, shared his take on why this partnership matters. He said: “We are strong believers of using business as a force for good. At Libro, we are taking responsibility to act on Truth and Reconciliation. We are excited about the possibilities our involvement in this project will bring and we are encouraging every local business to participate. Together we can make a significant difference in creating inclusive environments where every employee can thrive.”

Graham Henderson, CEO of the London Chamber said, “The project represents a pivotal moment for our community. Together with our partners, we are not only addressing the immediate challenge of retaining Indigenous talent but also paving the way for a more inclusive and prosperous future. Through this initiative, we are actively driving change and creating workplaces where every individual’s strengths are recognized and valued.”

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About Nokee Kwe: A not-for-profit, charitable organization, offers crucial vocational programs and services to Indigenous and Non-Indigenous individuals. In conjunction with the London Chamber of Commerce, it spearheads the First Employ Project. The initiative aligns with London’s anti-racism, anti-oppression, and inclusion commitments and UN Indigenous rights declarations. The effort promises to foster a safer work environment for the Indigenous workforce through better hiring practices, supporting autonomous decision-making and

decent work access.

For more information about the First Employ project and opportunities to get involved, please contact: 

Sharon Deebrah, First Employ Project Manager, Nokee Kwe.

C: 519-671-2832 |  SharonD@NokeeKwe.com.

About London Chamber of Commerce

London Chamber of Commerce  is committed to leading and serving the London region business community and fostering meaningful connections with the Indigenous community. With a vision to foster an environment where businesses flourish and diversity thrives, the London Chamber of Commerce is at the forefront of efforts to cultivate an inclusive business landscape. Visit www.londonchamber.com/indigenous-engagement to view our Indigenous Engagement Report.

London Chamber of Commerce contact:

Graham Henderson, CEO, London Chamber of Commerce

P: 519-432-7551 ext. 30 | graham@londonchamber.com

About Libro Credit Union: 

A full-service financial institution serving more than 117,000 member-Owners, including over 10,600 businesses, through a network of digital services and 34 physical locations. As a purpose-driven business, Libro has a growing and important commitment to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion. Truth and Reconciliation with Indigenous communities is an important part of this.Visit libro.ca/media.

Libro’s media contact:

Mike Donachie, Communications Manager, Libro Credit Union