Kathleen Sawdo

Kathleen Sawdo is Anishinaabe kwe, from the Bear Clan and a member of Lac Des Mille Lacs First Nation in Treaty 3 Territory.  She is a passionate Human Resources professional with over 20 years of experience in business administration and human resources management. She holds designations as a Tribal Human Resources Professional (THRP), Canadian Indigenous Human Resources Professional (CIHRP), and is a registered HR Practitioner with HRPA.  Kathleen continues to stay abreast of the latest trends and best practices in human resources/people and culture, through ongoing professional development. She is actively involved in community initiatives aimed at supporting Indigenous talent development, amplifying Indigenous voices and promoting cultural awareness in what is now called Canada.

Kathleen has been dedicated to nurturing organizational cultures to prioritize the recognition of Indigenous ways of knowing and being.  With a two-eyed seeing approach, she believes Human Resources can be aptly described as the heartbeat of an organization, beating with the rhythm of its people and culture.

Outside of work, Kathleen is an artist/beadworker and enjoys spending time with her family and community. Her approach to leadership in human resources reflects her belief in the transformative power of inclusive workplace cultures and the importance of honoring diverse perspectives in organizational decision-making.

With her education and experience in Human Resources and her Anishinaabe ancestral knowledge, Kathleen brings a balanced approach to Human Resources Management. She is passionate about amplifying the voices of Indigenous youth, assisting in preparing them for success and creating a workplace where every individual feels valued and empowered.

Kathleen enjoys spending time at her “shack on the lac” and fishing with her dogs Asia and Millie and cat Tinkerbell!