Cara Lenoir
Strategist, Bridge Builder, and Language Keeper
Cara Lenoir, a proud member of the Liidlii Kue First Nation and descendant of the Dene Nation in the Northwest Territories, is an accomplished Indigenous Relations Strategist. Now based in beautiful North Vancouver, Cara brings over 20 years of experience connecting Indigenous communities, governments, and industries, with her work focusing on developing culturally informed solutions in procurement, training, and employment strategies that drive meaningful collaboration and long-term success.
With a Bachelor of Commerce in Entrepreneurial Management from Royal Roads University, and a Management Studies diploma from Grant MacEwan University, Cara combines academic excellence with deep cultural knowledge. Her passion lies in fostering partnerships that advance reconciliation to enhance cultural competency, ensuring partnerships and collaborators respect and integrate Indigenous perspectives.
Cara’s journey began at the Department of Indian and Northern Affairs in the Northwest Territories, where mentors encouraged her to use her government experience to bridge gaps between First Nations communities and external organizations. A career highlight includes her time as the first Indigenous Procurement Specialist at BC Hydro, where she championed opportunities for Indigenous entrepreneurs and embedded Indigenous content into procurement strategies.Cara’s passion lies in supporting Indigenous communities in achieving self-determination and economic growth. She sees herself as a bridge, helping organizations align their values with those of Indigenous communities to foster meaningful partnerships. "It’s about improving lives and creating pathways for dialogue, understanding, and reconciliation" she shares.
Cara first connected with Forum Community Relations through IAP2 Canada and the Indigenous Engagement Community of Practice, where she has served as co-chair since 2021. Anne invited Cara to co-facilitate Indigenous Awareness training sessions, and their shared dedication to impactful engagement has deepened their professional relationship. Cara admires Anne’s thoughtful approach to Indigenous engagement and is proud to collaborate with her on advancing reconciliation efforts. As an advocate for the revitalization of Indigenous languages, Cara emphasizes the profound impact language has on worldview and understanding. She believes in the importance of circular thinking, in contrast to Western linear thinking, and strives to communicate complex concepts in plain language, breaking down colonialistic structures for a more inclusive and reconciled future.
Outside of her professional life, Cara enjoys hiking, traveling, and practicing her Dene language. Cara remains connected to her home community, prioritizing visits with family and friends, including her childhood teacher, nurturing relationships and embracing her cultural teachings, especially those rooted in language and storytelling.
Focus Areas
Indigenous Awareness & Engagement Training, Cultural Agility Coaching, Facilitation