Hi. I’m Michelle.
I’m a gal who really loves what I do! I wear many hats, however, it never feels like work because I have big goals and passion for what I do.
Let me tell you how being determined, and open to change, completely changed my path!
How did I get here?
In the summer of 2020, I was in a long-term career and planned to retire at this company. However, I went through a few life-changing events and started re-evaluating my professional future. I quickly realized I wanted to dedicate my personal and professional life doing things that I am passionate about that matched my values … and would advance Reconciliation.
If you read my LinkedIn profile, I talk about how not knowing how to do something is never as excuse. That is something I have followed since changing my focus and career path!
My BOLD move!
After a 23-year corporate career as an HR Professional in the Crown sector, I took a risk and moved my career to an Indigenous Economic Development Corporation as the Director of Indigenous HR Strategy.
This was a very rewarding role that helped me build my professional network, be involved in some impactful Indigenous employment initiatives ….and build my leadership confidence to sit at the decision-making tables as a First Nations, female leader.
Our team won the 2023 ABEX Award for Diversity, Equity and Inclusion! As one of the Indigenous Female Leaders accepting this award, in a room of Saskatchewan businesses, I know this is career highlight I will cherish for a long time!
In January 2024, I left the corporate world and became my own boss!
I am the proud owner of Brooks HR Group, a company dedicated to creating Indigenous careers and leadership through all levels of industry, and Venue B, a coffee lounge, catering company and event centre.
Both businesses keep me busy, however I always make time to give back to Indigenous Youth and professionals, community and my alumni schools, the University of Regina and SIIT.
I am passionate about:
( 1) ADVANCING INDIGENOUS PEOPLE AND RECONCILIATION
My areas of expertise are Human Resources, entrepreneurship, careers and economic reconciliation.
In addition to receiving the above award, I currently lead the Reconciliation Action & Accountability Network (RAAN) with dedicated employers who collaborate to advance TRC Call to Action #92.
Both of my businesses work together to advance reconciliation and encourage Indigenous leadership in careers and entrepreneurship.
In my spare time, I volunteer on the Board of Directors for the Ignite Adult Learning Corporation and Economic Development Regina.
( 2 ) ENSURING INDIGENOUS PEOPLE HAVE REPRESENTATION AND DECISION-MAKING OPPORTUNITIES IN THE EDUCATION, GOVERNMENT AND COMMUNITY LEVELS
My father, the late Stanford Sparvier, was an RCMP Officer who dedicated his career to policing and justice. He was my role model and why I dedicate my personal and professional career to advancing reconciliation. You cannot change the past, however, you can do your very best to create a better future when we work together.
I keep Dad’s legacy alive by working fiercely toward my goals and by ensuring there is Indigenous representation and decision-making ability in the in the sectors listed above.
( 3 ) BEING AN INDIGENOUS LEADER AND ROLE MODEL
I want Indigenous youth to see what I do as an inspiration because they are our future leaders. My father, and many family members, attended residential school. Knowing that history is overwhelming and I choose to use those emotions to help others move forward. I love seeing the light in the eyes of our Indigenous Youth when I show them they can be anything they want in life!
I am an engaging speaker who motivates audiences to take action.
With an ability to customize presentations and training to your organization or conference, I speak at events on topics including, but not limited, to:
How to attract and retain Indigenous employees
Indigenous employment barriers and how to overcome them
Indigenous awareness training
Entrepreneurship - not knowing how to do something is never an excuse when you want to become a successful entrepreneur
How to create the future you want by focusing on your passions and big goals
Engaging your workforce to excel in their careers (happy, engaged employees are productive employees)
Using LinkedIn within your organization - your employees are the best people to promote your vision
If any of these topics sound great to you … reach out and I would be happy to discuss speaking arrangements.
I am a proud member of the Cowessess First Nation
Growing up in an RCMP family meant I was not able to live in my community because we relocated every few years. I would not change a thing about the past as that lifestyle taught me so many great lessons and values that I live by today.
I am learning a lot about my culture and the progressive ways that Cowessess is paving the way for our future.
My work directly helps to advance Truth and Reconciliation Calls to Action in many ways. What a wonderful time it is to be a First Nations woman working in a field where I can help people bring their best self forward!
