Sodexo’s Commitment to Indigenous Reconciliation

Our commitment to Indigenous reconciliation has been steadfast for over two decades and remains an essential pillar of our vision. We have made significant strides in various areas, including employment, training and collaborative initiatives that actively promote meaningful reconciliation with First Nations, Métis and Inuit peoples.  

In conducting our business, we prioritize respectful engagement through genuine collaborations with Indigenous communities and partners, honouring their identities and rights. This pledge represents our commitment to creating a long-lasting transformative and positive impact. 

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Land Acknowledgement

We recognize that this publication was created on ancestral and traditional lands belonging to First Nations, Métis and Inuit peoples. We express our gratitude to the Indigenous Peoples who have served as the country's traditional stewards of its lands and waters while also acknowledging the past and present-day injustices that First Nations, Métis and Inuit peoples have faced, and continue to face in Canada.

Our Journey Toward Indigenous Reconciliation 

Our dedication to Indigenous reconciliation commenced over two decades ago and has consistently remained a cornerstone of our vision. Our achievements extend across  areas such as employment, training and collaborative initiatives that actively promote meaningful reconciliation with First Nations, Métis and Inuit Peoples. In conducting  our business, we prioritize respectful engagement through genuine collaborations  with Indigenous communities and partners, honouring their identities and rights. This commitment represents our solemn pledge to make a positive contribution and create a lasting, transformative impact. 

Leadership Actions

At Sodexo, we are proud to be part of many Indigenous communities’ journeys, as a business and as a long-term partner. It is our responsibility to contribute to and support community capacity-building efforts while we are present and to leave a positive legacy behind.

Indigenous Partner Relations

We are proud to collaborate with 28 active Indigenous partners and work closely with 32 vibrant Indigenous communities across Canada, spanning from coast to coast. Together, we are dedicated to building meaningful relationships and fostering economic growth and development within Indigenous communities.

22 Years of Progressive Aboriginal Relations

For more than two decades, we have continued to promote, reinforce and nurture business relationships with Indigenous communities and nations. Our commitment and actions have been recognized and honoured annually by the Canadian Council of Aboriginal Business (CCAB) with the highest level of recognition — the gold-level PAR certification.
Our goal is to support a progressive Indigenous economy establishing long-term partnerships. By extending Sodexo’s purchasing power, increasing our purchasing footprint in local communities, implementing strategies to combat food insecurity and developing tailored training programs. 
Stephane Champagne,Senior Vice President, Energy and Resources

Ongoing Indigenous Initiatives at Sodexo

As a company operating in Canada and engaging with Indigenous communities, we have a responsibility and an obligation to support reconciliation. By conducting our business with transparency and ideals centred on respect and fostering relationships, we believe we can make a difference.

  • People with orange t-shirts

    Orange Shirt Day

    In support of National Day for Truth and Reconciliation on September 30th, Sodexo Canada employees, clients, and partners from coast to coast came together to honour the experiences of Indigenous Peoples, celebrating resiliency and affirming the commitment that every child matters.
  • two children making faces

    The Breakfast Club of Canada

    The Sodexo Stop Hunger Foundation partners with the Breakfast Club of Canada (BCC) to support food insecurity programs in vulnerable communities including Indigenous nations. We have donated over $500,000 to BCC in the past five years through various initiatives. In 2022-23, the Club provided meals for 45,976 children every day in Indigenous communities.

  • HEC Montreal Sponsorship

    Sodexo proudly supports the First Nation Executive Education (FNEE) Women and Leadership program. The FNEE is a school of excellence created for and by First Nations, offering programs to develop the skills of First Nations Women business leaders. 

44%

Employees in Energy and Resources are from local Indigenous communities.

In our Energy and Resources segment, we are proud to have achieved a significant milestone. Supporting the growth of communities through our Indigenous partnerships involves hiring and training Indigenous people while supporting their career development.  

Business Development and Supply Chain

We work with more than 122 Indigenous-owned businesses and with 40+ Indigenous communities across Canada. This is just one of the ways we are supporting local economic development and building mutually beneficial partnerships.

2023 National Aboriginal Business Opportunities Conference (NABOC) 

Sodexo Canada was proud to be a major sponsor for the 2023 National Aboriginal Business Opportunities Conference in Osoyoos, British Columbia. The annual event brings together several industry and Indigenous business leaders from different sectors and communities to discuss joint business opportunities. 

Chef Paul Natrall: Indigenous Cuisine Ambassador

This year, we proudly welcomed Chef Paul Natrall as our new Sodexo Canada ambassador. With over a decade of expertise in Indigenous cuisine, our partnership is set to offer a unique Indigenous culinary experience.

A Steadfast Commitment to Reconciliation

More information about Sodexo Canada’s commitment and focus on Indigenous prosperity can be found in the Canadian Better Tomorrow and Indigenous Report 2023-24. 

Read the report