JP Gladu’s life has been one of great achievements. After graduating from Sault College’s Forestry Technician program in the early 1990s, Gladu went on to work in the forestry sector and is now a recognized corporate leader and supporter of Indigenous businesses. The Ojibway man and Thunder Bay native was recognized Nov.
26 for his work with a Premier’s Award for excellence in business. Premier’s Awards recognize the outstanding contributions Ontario college graduates make in the province and throughout the world. More than 100 graduates are nominated for a Premier’s Award each year, recognizing achievements in areas such as health care, science, technology and engineering, community services, the arts, business and the skilled trades.
“It’s a wonderful acknowledgement. I’m so grateful for it. It’s been beautiful.
It’s nice to be able to contribute and work hard and then be recognized for it. I’m incredibly grateful. It’s a blessing,” Gladu said in a phone interview with SooToday .
Gladu, 51, currently resides in Sand Point First Nation, two hours north of Thunder Bay. He is the founder and principal of Mokwateh and a Macdonald-Laurier Institute Senior Fellow. Mokwateh is an Indigenous-owned team of consultants that advises the Forest Products Association of Canada and helps support Indigenous businesses.
As an advocate for the Indigenous economy, Gladu was the Canadian Council for Indigenous Business president and CEO for eight years. He helped crea.
