Oct. 15, 2026

On October 8, the Northern store in Buffalo Narrows, SK, was proud to support the first Northwest Saskatchewan Economic Development Summit, which brought together regional leaders, northern businesses, and industry representatives to shape conversations around northwest Saskatchewan’s economy and future growth. The store contributed $5,500 to the gathering through sponsorship and food donation.

Pictured above: From Left to Right, Northern Village of Buffalo Narrows Mayor Shaylee Gardiner, Deputy Mayor Harley Hudson, North West’s Community Support and Communications Specialist Lorena Solorzano, Business Development Officer of Buffalo Narrows Economic Development Corporation Oyewole Farinde, and North West’s Director of Store Operations Rasa Kangaiah (left); Chief Tanya Stone delivering the opening keynote address (right).

As one of the leading retail stores in Buffalo Narrows, serving families, youth, and Elders in the community, this was a meaningful opportunity for Northern and The North West Company to engage in forward-looking conversations with local and regional decision-makers.

Attendees heard panel discussions from community leaders and business partners highlighting the current employement, health, and education status, along with procurement and economic development opportunities across the region. Chief Tanya Stone of Mosquito Grizzly Bear’s Head Lean Man First Nation delivered an opening keynote message sharing her journey supporting her home commmunity's economic growth.

Northern was pleased to contribute $2,500 in sponsorship funding and $3,000 in food donations to help support the gathering. The team also hosted an information booth showcasing North West’s work advancing Our Promise to Indigenous Peoples, Healthy Horizons Foundation (HHF), NWC Commercial Sales and NWC Expand Your Market initiative. 

“It was a great pleasure to attend the summit as a contributor and partner in one of the key hub communities of northwest Saskatchewan,” shared Director of Store Operations Rasa Kanagaiah.

“We had the opportunity to connect with other businesses, Indigenous leaders, and community partners. The conversations echoed the need for community-driven investments and Indigenous economic partnerships that reflect the unique needs of the region while advancing the well-being of the people we serve,” Kanagaiah added.