The Memoir · OUT NOW
Every kid deserves a tap on the shoulder.
Kevin Chief grew up facing hardships and challenges in Winnipeg's North End. But his teachers, coaches, and community focused instead on his possibilities. Now he shares that story with diverse audiences across the country, and in his memoir.
Kevin Chief is a former Minister of Jobs and the Economy for Manitoba, co-founder of the Winnipeg Aboriginal Sport Achievement Centre, Senior Advisor at True North Sports + Entertainment, Community Ambassador for the Southern Chiefs' Organization, a member of Minegoziibe Anishinabe First Nation, and a dancer with the Norman Chief Memorial Dancers.
With a Name Like Chief
Reflections on Recovery and Identity Through the Seven Sacred Teachings
In his own frank and honest words, Kevin recounts growing up in poverty in Winnipeg's North End and in a single-parent home with his father's alcoholism, becoming an MVP basketball star and captain of his university team, finding his way to recovery, and being elected to the Manitoba legislature twice. He shares how educators and mentors helped him along the way, and how the Seven Teachings of the Anishinaabe have guided his recovery and his sense of identity.
About Kevin
Who is Kevin Chief
Passionate and committed to helping maximize the potential of our children, youth, and families, Kevin Chief is inspiring change and dialogue with people across Manitoba and Canada. Born and raised in Winnipeg's North End, Kevin's journey reflects the values of hard work, perseverance, and the power of community.
Drawing from his Indigenous roots as a member of the Minegoziibe Anishinabe First Nation (Pine Creek), Kevin has held leadership positions in the non-profit sector, the Manitoba Legislative Assembly, and the business community. As Principal of Chief Partnerships, he works with leaders from all walks of life to engage the greater community.
Contact Kevin →
Presentations & Workshops
Stories of resilience, reconciliation, and hope
As an Indigenous youth in Winnipeg's North End, Kevin grew up to find success on the basketball court and then graduate from university on a basketball scholarship. He went on to work alongside leaders in business, community, and government. He shares his story, engaging audiences with themes of resilience and reconciliation.
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Strategic Partnerships
Collaboration alongside community, business, and government
A lot of Kevin's work is based on partnership: connecting community organizations, employers, and government to create education, training, and job opportunities.
Explore partnerships →
Cultural Performances
Norman Chief Memorial Dancers
Founded in 2004 in memory of the late Norman Chief, this Métis square-dancing troupe performs at community events, festivals, and fundraisers across Manitoba. Kevin is the group's leader, and the dancers are available to book for your event.
Meet the dancers →Testimonials
What people are saying
Learn what people are saying about the impact Kevin is having.
The keynote speaker [Kevin Chief] was articulate, engaging, humorous, sensitive and was able to get his message across. An inspirational start to the day.Manitoba Advising Professionals ConferenceAttendee
I appreciated his vulnerability and am more curious to learn about Canada's unique relationship with Indigenous people.CPHR Manitoba ConferenceSurvey feedback
Talking about a sense of belonging, with messages of hope and encouragement, are things I will be able to apply in both my professional and personal life.Manitoba Advising Professionals ConferenceAttendee
I wish we could have (the Norman Chief Memorial Dancers) every week! What a great energy. People literally stepping out of their shops to see what was going on – that hasn't happened downtown in quite some time!Downtown Winnipeg BizLaura M.
Gallery
In the community
Classrooms, camps, dance floors, and community halls.
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Bring Kevin
to your next event.
Whether you're planning a keynote, a school visit, or a performance, it starts with a hello. Tell us what you have in mind.
Contact Kevin →