Tamara Napoleon

Tamara, a distinguished member of the Saulteau First Nations, holds the notable position of being one of the few Indigenous female solicitors in Canada, leading the Indigenous Law Group at MT+Co. She dedicates her practice to clients seeking to foster greater equity, legacy, and equality in their operations and governance, offering insightful and strategic counsel that empowers informed decision-making. Tamara's approach is marked by a unique blend of diplomatic grace, significantly contributing to the advancement of Nations and their commercial ventures.

Her expertise is broad and impactful, guiding clients through the complexities of Indigenous title implementation, jurisdictional matters, and consent-based decision-making frameworks in intergovernmental contexts. Tamara is adept at facilitating sustainable resource development, ensuring equitable revenue sharing for projects within Indigenous Territories. Her advice is crucial in negotiations, the implementation of the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples (UNDRIP), and understanding the legal implications of natural resource utilization.

Beyond legal advisory, Tamara plays a vital role in enhancing the commercial presence of Nations, providing guidance on acquisitions and structuring for economic growth. Her commitment to community and leadership extends beyond her professional work. Tamara actively contributes her expertise to the BC Cancer Foundation, the Victoria Foundation, and her Nation's economic development arm, the Mistahiya Group of Companies. Her past roles include significant contributions as Vice President of the Aboriginal Mothers Centre Society, a director of the Vancouver Native Health Society, and a Governor of the Justice Institute of BC.

Tamara's heritage as a Cree woman inspires her drive and dedication to effecting change, both professionally and personally. When not engaged in her legal and community roles, she is an avid racer and adventurer, cherishing moments at Horsefly Lake or embarking on new challenges. As a mother to two adventurous boys, she finds joy and a refreshing perspective on life's seriousness.

Her legal journey is underpinned by her admittance to the BC Bar in 2008, alongside her ongoing roles with the Victoria Foundation and BC Cancer Foundation since 2021 and 2022, respectively. Tamara's leadership in wellness and sustainable economies is further acknowledged through her directorship at the Wellness and Indigenous Sustainable Economies Centre. Her contributions to her community and field were recognized with the UVic Distinguished Alumni Award in 2018, highlighting her significant impact as a solicitor, leader, and advocate for Indigenous rights and prosperity.