Who We Are
“Provoking beneficial change at the nexus of Corporations and Indigenous Nations.”
KatalystNow’s seasoned team has the expertise to effectively engage with both Indigenous Nations and corporations, resulting in meaningful and sustainable outcomes. Our belief is that the opportunity is “Now”, to realize mutually beneficial relationships between Nations and Corporations.
KatalystNow provokes the realization of these beneficial relationships.
What makes us different
Depth of Experience
Our team brings an extensive track record of success and diverse experience, including both lived Indigenous and corporate experience. Our insights are real, earned in the field and informed by work done on the ground, not theory, that delivers results.
Bridging Business and Community
We understand both corporate business drivers and how to work with Indigenous Nations. At the intersection of these perspectives, we know how to move from intention to action, creating change that is practical, meaningful and sustainable.
Action Over Abstraction
We don’t spend time or resources on unnecessary philosophizing. Our focus is on solutions that work in real world environments.
Respectful, Informed Engagement
We approach our work with deep respect for the historical, cultural, and economic considerations that exist within Indigenous communities, while also being mindful of key business drivers, remaining committed to real, beneficial results for all.
Proven Belief in What Is Possible
We believe barriers can be overcome through genuine intent, and more importantly, we’ve seen it happen.
Execution That Delivers Results
Above all, we know how to make change happen. KatalystNow has the experience and track record to prove it. We are catalysts for positive results.
Meet the Team
Michael Reid
Co-Founder
Michael Reid’s extensive 30-year career at the intersect of community and corporations throughout North America, has focused on Indigenous/Tribal inclusion, stakeholder engagement, economic and workforce inclusion and strategic engagement planning and execution. Prior to his consultancy work, he had senior roles leading Indigenous and Stakeholder engagement teams at Talisman Energy, Statoil Canada and Pembina Pipeline. Michael is committed to establishing meaningful, trust-based relationships between corporations and communities.
Leona Karakunte-Small
Co-Founder
Leona Karakunte-Small is an Indigenous professional with over 20 years of experience bridging Indigenous and Western perspectives across the healthcare and oil and gas sectors. Grounded in lived experience and cultural knowledge, she uses the Two-Eyed Seeing approach to support organizations through Indigenous talent acquisition, bias training, and community engagement, helping create culturally informed and inclusive workplaces that honor Indigenous voices, experiences and ways of knowing.