Patrick Twinn

Patrick Twinn (Hospitality Management ‘11), a proud Nehiyaw napew (Cree man) from Sawridge First Nation, has built a career defined by Indigenous advocacy, community service, and leadership in corporate reconciliation. With a background in hospitality and advanced education in Indigenous business and leadership, Patrick has become a respected voice in creating culturally grounded strategies that open pathways for Indigenous inclusion across Alberta. He currently serves as the Director of Indigenous Relations at ATB Financial, where his work has influenced policy, strengthened partnerships, and advanced economic opportunity for Indigenous communities.  

Leading corporate reconciliation through strategy and action 

​​Patrick’s most notable professional achievement is leading ATB Financial through its first PAIR (Professional Accreditation in Indigenous Relations) certification with the Canadian Council for Indigenous Business. This designation affirms ATB as a strong employer and business partner for Indigenous Peoples and demonstrates alignment with the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s ​(TRC) ​Call to Action #92. Patrick defined, developed, and implemented ATB’s Indigenous ​Relations Strategy—work that created a framework for long‑term organizational change and industry leadership. ​​​ 

​​​Patrick also led ATB Financial through the development of its first ​ever Truth​ and Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP) which was published in May 2025. The ATB RAP is both a reflection of what ATB has learned, and a declaration of what ATB will do. The RAP is a two-year strategic plan highlighting key enterprise goals, objectives and key results for the organization to advance, in alignment with the TRC 94 Calls to Action and the CCIB PAIR program. It highlights ATB’s commitment of creating a better future for Indigenous and non-Indigenous people through public and enterprise accountability. ​​​​ 

He also co‑led the creation of two Indigenous Economic Assessment Reports of Alberta with MNP, which provide comprehensive data on economic contributions, challenges, and opportunities for Indigenous communities. These reports inform policy, elevate public understanding, and support communities in pursuing economic self‑determination—contributions recognized as having provincial and national significance.  

Serving community, uplifting youth, and strengthening cultural connections 

Patrick’s commitment to community extends far beyond his professional life. ​Patrick is a current member of Hockey Canada’s inaugural ​Indigenous​ Advisory Council (IAC). ​He ​has ​volunteer​ed​​​ as a board member for the Inner-City Youth Development Association, supporting marginalized Indigenous youth with mentorship and educational guidance. He also contributes regularly to committees within Sawridge First Nation, including roles on the Membership Reform Committee, the Comprehensive Community Plan Committee, and the Audit and Compensation Committee. These volunteer commitments reflect his dedication to strengthening governance, community engagement, and cultural continuity within his Nation.  

Patrick’s influence has been recognized widely, including being named one of Edify’s Top 40 Under 40 (2024)—a reflection of his broad and meaningful impact across community, corporate, and cultural spheres. His work demonstrates how lived experience, business expertise, and cultural knowledge can come together to advance reconciliation in tangible, community‑driven ways. His leadership makes him a deserving recipient of the Alumni Award of Excellence. 

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Alumni Award of Excellence

The Alumni Award of Excellence recognizes the significant contributions made in recent years by NAIT alumni to their profession or community.  

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