Natalie Wynn-Dempsey

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

No items found.

Other speakers & attendees

Kira Hunt

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

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
Karina Birch

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
Laura Keating Elske

Laura Keating Elske

People & Planet Consulting

Decision strategist, facilitator, and community builder with expertise in structured decision-making

more
Barb Rallison

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

Adrienne Furrie Beauty

Professional makeup artist and beauty brand founder with over 20 years of experience working in beauty, fashion, and business

more
Philip Lozano

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
Michelle Lee

Michelle Lee

Mount Royal University

Coordinator of StartWork at MRU, supporting refugees and newcomers through inclusive employment and social innovation

more

Sponsors & Hosts