Supporting the next generation of Indigenous leaders across the province.
R8dius is one of the latest initiatives of Kitsaki Management, the economic development arm of the Lac La Ronge Indian Band (LLRIB). Since Kitsaki’s creation, the organization has been building long-term economic independence for the community. Today, the company represents over 12,000 members of the LLRIB and oversees more than a dozen companies across industries such as transportation, hospitality, environmental services and now, professional and technology services through R8dius.
The launch of R8dius in 2024 represents the next step in empowering Indigenous professionals to build meaningful careers while staying connected to their home communities. Supported by Deloitte Canada, R8dius helps organizations operate more efficiently through innovative technology and business solutions – managing everything from payroll and inventory systems to overseeing large-scale projects and operating call centres.
The name R8dius carries special significance. The “8” represents the Eighth Fire Prophecy, a First Nations prophecy related to creating a better future by aligning the values of Indigenous and non-Indigenous communities. The company’s purpose to “widen the circle” echoes this vision by providing opportunities for Indigenous Peoples to lead in the professional services space.
“It’s important when it comes to economic reconciliation and barrier reduction, especially for Indigenous people entering the science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) space, to have organizations like R8dius that look at things differently and make space for people to enter those industries in a way that is safe and supportive.” Kitsaki’s Director of Marketing and Communications Jennifer Thoma says.
Currently, 100 employees work at R8dius, approximately 80 per cent of whom are Indigenous. Most work remotely from their home communities, supported by offices across Canada, including Regina and soon, one in Saskatoon. This flexible model removes barriers related to relocation, childcare and transportation.
What makes R8dius truly unique is its model of Indigenous ownership. Kitsaki holds a 51 per cent majority stake, ensuring that decision-making power and economic benefits remain within Indigenous communities. In time, the company plans to invite other First Nations, Inuit and Métis communities to join as owners, widening the circle of participation and shared wealth.
The dividends from R8dius’s various enterprises flow back to Indigenous communities, helping build generational wealth and improving quality of life.
This true equity partnership matters because it directly impacts how the organization develops and how success is shared. It’s about inclusion and expansion and bringing Indigenous communities into STEM spaces where they have historically been underrepresented. As Thoma points out, fewer than two percent of Indigenous Peoples currently work in STEM fields. But R8dius is helping change that by providing access to these high-demand industries.
Mentorship is also built into R8dius’s model. Through its partnership with Deloitte, employees receive guidance from established professionals, equipping them to lead projects and eventually mentor others. The plan is that in five or ten years, junior team members who are now learning will be leading major projects and supporting the next generation behind them. This cycle of learning and leadership builds both confidence and capacity within communities, creating a long-lasting effect that goes beyond individual careers.
For R8dius, reconciliation is not a slogan, it’s built into the company’s structure. It’s about making decisions with Indigenous people, not for them, and aligning Indigenous and Western business values in a way that creates opportunities and partnerships, not dependencies.
Supporting Indigenous success is integral to advancing the Government of Saskatchewan’s commitment to economic reconciliation. Hosted annually by the province’s Ministry of Trade and Export Development, the Indigenous Business Gathering (IBG) event brings together Indigenous-owned businesses, government and industry partners to collaborate and build relationships.
“From our perspective, we’ve built a lot of relationships and met people through IBG” Thoma shares. “It’s valuable, it’s a great opportunity, but it’s also an opportunity to celebrate Indigenous entrepreneurship.”
For both Kitsaki and R8dius, the event has been instrumental in creating partnerships and expanding awareness of the sophistication and success of Indigenous-led businesses. Participation in IBG has further established R8dius’s growing reach and impact. The organization demonstrates that Indigenous enterprises can compete at the highest levels and deliver world-class services, all while maintaining a strong commitment to social responsibility and community impact.
As R8dius grows, its success will be measured not only by contracts and revenue but by the number of Indigenous professionals empowered, the diversity of industries served and the partnerships it strengthens. It proves that high-quality professional services and economic reconciliation work together and that business growth simultaneously supports community well-being.
Ultimately, R8dius is more than a technology and professional services company. It is a catalyst for change, widening the circle so that Indigenous Peoples can participate fully and lead in professional services spaces. Its model of mentorship, ownership and flexible employment demonstrates that when Indigenous voices are centered and opportunity is shared, the entire province’s economic health, diversity and strength benefits.
For more information, contact:
Media Relations
Regina
Phone: 306-526-6302
Email: media.ted@gov.sk.ca
