52 - CanadianSME I March 2021
Candice Loring Member of the Gitwangak Band from the Gitxsan Nation Candice Loring is a proud member of the Gitwangak Band from the Gitxsan Nation. She is passionate about economic development in Indigenous communities, which led her to pursue a degree in Business Management with a minor in Psychology from the University of British Columbia. She has extensive experience working in the financial industry as an Account Manager Business Banking. Drawing from her previous experience in the financial industry, Candice now applies her business expertise as the Director of Business Development Indigenous Community Engagement with Mitacs. Mitacs is a national not for profit organization that powers research and development by connecting industry with leading postsecondary institutions to solve business challenges. Candice works closely with industry partners and academics to develop an innovation roadmap to help organizations reach their business goals.
“As a member of the Gitwangak Band from the Gitxsan Nation, I come from a matrilineal society; my late grandmother was a hereditary chief. Grandmother’s title was not earned by personal achievements, but by how much she did for our community. Before important meetings, I seek guidance from my ancestors — the women who have walked the Earth before me. Any success I achieve is an extension of my grandmothers and mother. Their sacrifices allowed me the privilege to follow my dreams. For me, being a leader is measured by the goodness in your heart and how much time you devote in service of others. Find your gift and use it for the betterment of all.”