b'NORTHERN TOURISMFor every dollar we get in revenue over the nine years weve been in business, we spent 87 cents in the community. Thats between the fuel, the wages, the purchasing from the local merchants. We support and partner with Indigenous people and organizations every chance we get.Chris Mitchell, Arctic Bay AdventuresINDIGENOUS EXPERIENCEIts clear that the scope of tourist experi-ences tied to the North is expanding to include more cultural and nature-driven attractions that reflect an Indigenous way of life. Indigenous tourist opera-tors are embracing this trend, and theAs a proud member of CCIB, TARA Energy Services is committed to improving response has been overwhelminglynot just the products and services we offer, but all aspects of the wider positive, with more companies climbingcommunities where we live and workalways focusing on making a positive onboard as demand grows.impact and being accountable for all our social responsibilities.It is also a priority at our organization to understand and respect the cultures When I started my company, I beganand needs of the local Indigenous peoples with whom we interact. Their voices teaching about who we are, what we do,are valued, heard, and carefully considered at every step because we believe about the land, and about hunting, gath- that forming strong relationships and partnerships is the key to mutual success.ering, and doing the traditional songsWe have fully executed Joint Ventures with Blueberry River First Nation in NEBC, and stories, says Bobby Drygeese,and Alexander First Nation in Alberta. These partnerships create a space for the owner and operator of B. Deneopen communication and mutual growth between TARA Energy Services and Adventures out of Yellowknife. Thenthe Indigenous communities in which we work and reside. different companies started doing moreOur emphasis on sustainability and quality control at every level of our of the traditional stuff too.operations makes it possible for our customers to drastically reduce emissions, improve wellsite safety, reduce risks, and exceed regulatory requirements. Drygeese, who is from the YellowknivesOur Canadian operating hubs in Grande Prairie and Fort St. John are frequently Dene First Nation, brings in Elders tosearching for suitable candidates to help continue to grow our team. We are conduct ceremonies and do traditionalalways looking for service technicians, shop assistants, operators, truck drivers, arts and crafts for his customers. Heand more. If youre ready to be a part of a team that is paving the way on GHG says that his people, by nature, are notreduction and green innovations, send your resume with your intended position inclined to talk about themselves, butin the subject line to careers@taraenergyservices.com.they are beginning to understand how important it is to share their stories. They are slowly coming to realize that a lot more people want to genuinely hear them. We wait till the tourists ask ques-tions, and then we talk about ourselves, Drygeese says. For his part, Drygeese coaches the people he employs to speak more, to answer how they grew up, and how they do things, the traditional way.Ron Desjarlais of Red Cliff Adventures in the Northwest Territorieshimself a utsl K Dene Eldersays the growing interest in Indigenous culture has led him to expand the experience he offers Indigenous BUSINESS REPORT71'