Katherine Koostachin

Katherine Koostachin is a seasoned policy and legal professional with over 15 years of experience advancing Indigenous priorities in Canada, focusing on lands and resources, energy, critical minerals, climate policy, and Indigenous Reconciliation. Her career spans legal practice, senior advisory roles in federal politics, and direct involvement in Indigenous engagement and consultation. Katherine has a proven ability to manage complex relationships between Industry and Indigenous Nations, consistently delivering results. As Senior Advisor of Indigenous Policy and Litigation in the Prime Minister’s Office, she influenced Cabinet decisions, secured strategic investments, and played a key role in resolving historic grievances, advancing reconciliation, and addressing litigation and infrastructure challenges. Katherine also provided strategic policy and regulatory advice to the Federal Ministers of Environment, Indigenous Services, and Natural Resources Canada, contributing to the Impact Assessment Act (2019) and United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples Act (2021). As a practicing lawyer specializing in Aboriginal law, energy, and environmental frameworks, Katherine champions the balance between economic development and environmental stewardship, advocating for sustainable solutions that benefit both Indigenous Nations and Industry. Katherine holds an LLB from the University of Ottawa, an Aboriginal Intensive Certificate from Osgoode Hall, and a BA from the University of British Columbia. As a proud Mushkegowuk Cree from Attawapiskat First Nation, Katherine advocates for a future where Indigenous Nations are full partners in shaping and benefiting from Canada's economy, while safeguarding their lands and culture for future generations.