James Ross, Teetl’it Gwich’in, is a name synonymous with progress and empowerment in Northern Canada. With decades of experience working alongside First Nations, government entities, and industry leaders, he has been a pivotal figure in shaping the landscape of resource development in the North since his early 20s. His tenure as a four-term Chief of the Teetl’it Gwich’in First Nation is marked by a commitment to creating economic opportunities that uplift his community while respecting their cultural heritage.

James specializes in economic, community, and educational development for First Nations. He provides a wide array of services, including seminars, strategic planning, business management, negotiation, and mediation, tailored to meet the needs of First Nations, governments, and businesses. He also develops cross-cultural and traditional knowledge programs, bridging gaps and fostering understanding among diverse groups.

James has played a crucial role in fostering economic growth and sustainability. He is a founding director of the Denendeh Investment Corporation and the Gwich’in Development Corporation. His strategic vision and negotiation skills were instrumental in the early 1990s when he served as a key negotiator for the Gwich’in Comprehensive Land Claim Agreement. This landmark treaty, signed with the Government of Canada in 1992, granted the Gwich’in ownership of over 22,000 square kilometers in the Northwest Territories and 1,500 square kilometers in the Yukon. It also established significant local government and co-management rights, along with cash compensation, laying the groundwork for future generations to thrive.

James’s academic pursuits further underscore his dedication to understanding the complexities of resource management and economic development. He studied World Petroleum Economics at Yale University and Business Management at the University of Lethbridge, equipping him with the knowledge and skills to navigate the intricate relationship between Indigenous rights and resource development. His recent service as a board member on the National Aboriginal Economic Development Board of Canada reflects his ongoing commitment to advocating for Indigenous business interests globally.

Beyond his local contributions, James has represented the Gwich’in people on global platforms, advocating for Indigenous rights and environmental justice. His participation in the Arctic Council (Helsinki, Stockholm, Reykjavik) highlights his commitment to addressing the unique challenges faced by Arctic communities in a rapidly changing climate. He has shared his insights at prestigious events such as the National Environmental Justice Conference in Washington, D.C., where he emphasized the importance of integrating Indigenous knowledge into environmental policy and decision-making.

On the global stage, he has been part of a team developing a collaborative business and sustainability platform that brings together rights holders and stakeholders dedicated to reducing forest fire risks. Through a commercial consortium of skilled practitioners—including experts in Indigenous knowledge, fire science, technology, IT systems, trade, and finance—the system being developed enables innovative collaborations that safeguard communities, uphold Indigenous rights, protect ecosystems, and support regenerative forest economies.

James has also contributed to discussions on Indigenous knowledge and climate resilience at Cornell University’s “Rhythms of the Land” conference, where he explored the intersection of traditional wisdom and scientific understanding in thriving together amidst climate change. His collaboration with the Cold Climate Housing Research Center at the University of Alaska Fairbanks showcases his dedication to developing sustainable housing solutions that respect Indigenous ways of life while addressing the challenges posed by extreme weather conditions.

James has also made significant contributions to the documentation and promotion of Dene culture and language. He published the Dene Languages Study for the Government of the Northwest Territories in 1981, which played a vital role in preserving and promoting Indigenous languages. His Dinjii Zhuh Dene Games Booklet, released in 1979, highlights traditional games and activities, fostering cultural pride and continuity among younger generations. Additionally, he worked on the Dene Nation film in 1978, which aimed to raise awareness about the Dene people’s rights and heritage. More recently, he contributed to the Shehtah Drilling History film in 2012, documenting the history and impact of drilling in the region.

James’s journey has not been without its challenges. He attended and survived residential schools in Fort McPherson, Inuvik, and Yellowknife, NT, following the painful legacy of his mother’s generation, who endured the trauma of residential school genocide. This personal history fuels his commitment to cultural preservation and education, as he seeks to ensure that the voices and stories of the Dinjii Zhuh people are heard and honored. He lives with a lifetime of trauma, including today’s generational struggles. Yet he continues to harvest and enjoy their land with his wife Mary, as they work to ensure their grandchildren are prepared.