
Natalie Wynn-Dempsey
Momentum Indigenous Engagement Coordinator | Owner of Little Wonders Early Literacy Music Play Program
Oki, tan'si, and hello,
My name is Natalie Wynn-Dempsey (aka Miss Natalie of Little Wonders). My traditional
name is Rainbow Eagle Woman. My family has so many opportunities to express
themselves in the myriad of colourful perspectives rooted in African, First Nations
decent and more. I proudly honour my Lenape heritage from Delaware Nation at
Moraviantown through my maternal grandmother, as well as my Tsalagi heritage
through my paternal grandmother.
As a mother to three amazing adult children, a grandmother to two grandsons, and one
granddaughter, I couldn't be prouder. My loving and supportive husband has been a
constant source of strength in my life. The relationships I have with my family, whether
through birth, adoption, marriage, or chosen bonds, all play an instrumental role in
nurturing my self-compassion.
The beautiful nature of reciprocity, deeply rooted in Indigenous culture, holds profound
meaning. As a former participant in the Momentum Program, I had the opportunity to
transform Little Wonders early literacy music and play program into a thriving business
in Calgary. Even after 18 years, it remains vibrant and active, now embracing and
reflecting traditional teachings while serving Indigenous families in the community. This
experience was a turning point in my life and career, and I will always cherish it.
Rejoining this community in a changemaker role is a tremendous honour, as it would
allow me to contribute to its ongoing growth and transformation.
As a Community oskâpêwis (Helper), I prioritize acknowledging and integrating
Indigenous cultural teachings into program offerings, drawing on the wisdom of Elders
and Knowledge Keepers. I am excited about the opportunity to serve as the Indigenous
Engagement Coordinator, utilizing my 30+ years of professional experience and
expertise in curriculum development, as well as the ancestral wisdom that I have
humbly inherited and actively engaged with through ceremonies and guidance from
Elders and Knowledge Keepers. This engagement will continue to be a lifelong
commitment.
In this role, I am dedicated to guiding Momentum's Truth and Reconciliation work
drawing upon the invaluable support of community. Through creating meaningful
offerings and fostering nurturing relationships centred on growth, I aim to address the
intricate needs and aspirations of those we partner with and how we move forward with
community economic development.
I am deeply grateful for the opportunities I’ve had and the support I’ve received along
the way. I look forward to continuing to grow, learn, and contribute to the community in
meaningful ways.
Hiy, hiy, all my relations,
Natalie
Workshops
Other speakers & attendees

Kira Hunt
Adaptive Ecosystems
Landscape technologist, biomimicry researcher, and artist with a broad range of knowledge that includes urban planning, ecology, biology, design, machining, and mapmaking.
more
Tonya Surman
Centre for Social Innovation, CEO
Tonya Surman is a leading Canadian social entrepreneur and founding CEO of the Centre for Social Innovation (CSI). She’s known for creating visionary ideas, collaborative models, and spaces that drive systemic change. Tonya co-developed the Constellation Model and the Community Bond, which has raised over $10M to support social purpose real estate. Under her leadership, CSI has supported 6000+ changemakers. She also founded Social Innovation Canada, uniting innovators nationwide. Tonya is an award-winning leader recognized by Ashoka, the Trillium Foundation, and others.
more.png)
Karina Birch
Rocky Mountain Soap Company, CEO
Karina Birch is the co-owner and CEO of Rocky Mountain Soap Company, a Canadian natural beauty brand based in Canmore, Alberta. Since taking over the business in 2000, she has grown it from a small shop into a national brand with over a dozen retail locations and a 25,000 sq. ft. workshop where all products are made in-house. Karina is known for her authentic leadership and commitment to sustainability, natural ingredients, and community. She is also a strong supporter of youth-focused initiatives like Fast and Female and Spirit North.
more.jpg)
Laura Keating Elske
People & Planet Consulting
Decision strategist, facilitator, and community builder with expertise in structured decision-making
more.jpg)
Barb Rallison
Institute for Community Prosperity / MRU / StartWork
Social innovator, community economic development leader, and impact investor with deep roots in Moh’kinsstsis and Métis-settler heritage, working at the intersection of systems change, equity, and place-based prosperity.
more
Adrienne Furrie
Adrienne Furrie Beauty
Professional makeup artist and beauty brand founder with over 20 years of experience working in beauty, fashion, and business
more.jpg)
Philip Lozano
Be Local YYC
Manager of Be Local YYC, with almost 10 years of experience working in social enterprise, with a focus on community and grassroot initiatives
more.jpg)
Michelle Lee
Mount Royal University
Coordinator of StartWork at MRU, supporting refugees and newcomers through inclusive employment and social innovation
more