Indigenous Business series: Len Pierre Consulting

The Indigenous business series brings together voices from majority-owned/controlled (51% or more) Indigenous peoples’ businesses that have worked with UBC, sharing their experiences with UBC’s procurement process. The series aims to support supplier diversity and strengthen inclusion of Indigenous businesses in future opportunities at UBC.

Len Pierre Consulting

Len Pierre Consulting (LPC) is an Indigenous-led consulting firm that supports organizations in advancing cultural safety, decolonization, reconciliation, and anti-racism through education, mentorship, and strategic guidance across diverse sectors.

Can you share your experience doing business with UBC?

LPC has enjoyed the opportunity to support researchers, students and staff at UBC who are committed to integrating cultural safety, decolonization, reconciliation and Indigenous knowledge into their work. We are grateful that UBC has trusted us to support the important work people are doing to address the truth of the past and build a brighter future for education and research in this country. Our team has really enjoyed being invited to engage with and learn from communities alongside UBC staff. 

How can UBC improve our Indigenous procurement process? Were there any challenges?

A challenge we often encounter that is not specific to UBC is that people sometimes want quick, clear cut solutions. This work is relational. Starting small from a place of curiosity and building relationships overtime can lead to more impact over time.

Do you have any advice for people at UBC who want to work with Indigenous Businesses?

Cultural safety is central to having good relationships with Indigenous communities and businesses alike. Invest in cultural safety first to empower strong relationships. This is why cultural safety training is also a starting point for so many of our clients. We also recommend that people do their homework, as there are unfortunately many cases of businesses misrepresenting themselves as Indigenous-owned or led. 

How has working with UBC impacted your efforts to achieve your business or community goals?

Working with UBC has given us the opportunity to support transformation within education and research that we know can improve relationships and the lives of Indigenous peoples and communities.