This award is named after the Indigenous leader of the group that discovered the Yukon Klondike goldfields, one of Canada’s most important mineral discoveries. Recipients of this award must be from a recognized Indigenous group in Canada (Metis, Inuit, First Nation) and have demonstrated exceptional achievement and/or service in an Indigenous business organization operating in the Canadian mining industry and/or a Canadian Indigenous exploration or mining company or have made a significant individual contribution to the mining industry.
Glenn Nolan
For his leadership in fostering economic opportunities for First Nations on their traditional lands, and for his long history of volunteerism
Glenn Nolan is receiving the very award he helped create as co-chair of the PDAC's Indigenous Affairs Committee. Glenn was elected as PDAC director in 2005 and went on to serve as the association's first Indigenous president from 2012 to 2014.
Glenn is known as an accomplished bridge builder between Indigenous communities and the mining industry in Ontario. As former Chief of the Missanabie Cree First Nation, he understands the struggles and aspirations of Indigenous peoples. As an executive of Ring of Fire Metals (formerly Noront Resources), he appreciates the challenges exploration companies face as they try to advance mineral projects. Glenn continues to help foster stronger local Indigenous involvement and participation with Ring of Fire Metals.
Following in his father's footsteps, Glenn spent most of his career in the mining sector. He formed his own contracting firm to conduct geophysical surveys, line cutting and claim staking for mineral exploration across Northern Canada before moving on to other business ventures.
Glenn has supported the development of economic opportunities for Indigenous peoples world-wide. He has supported the government of Canada’s efforts to bring awareness of mining opportunities to Indigenous people throughout the Americas. He continues to support the Shuar people of Ecuador and Peru to help establish better relations with government and the mining sectors and was chair of the Canadian Executive Service Organization (now Catalyste+).
After dedicating his life’s work to meaningful engagement and consultation between industry and Indigenous communities, including countless hours of volunteer work with PDAC, it's Glenn's turn to be recognized by his peers.