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From studying law at H���� to advising on northern and Indigenous policy, Davis's career has centred on the intersection of business, government and Indigenous rights. Now, as CEO of , he is expanding Indigenous presence in capital markets while supporting the next generation of leaders. He reflects on his journey and what drives his work today.

What was your experience like growing up in Labrador, and how did it lead you to H����?

A condition of my acceptance to Dal was participating in the Native Pre-Law Program at the University of Saskatchewan. We were taught by some of the most significant thinkers, leaders, and professors in Indigenous law. That was the first time I became aware of the breadth of injustice faced by Indigenous people across Canada. I decided to focus on Indigenous law at Dal and use my business background to make a positive impact. Though I no longer practice law, the skills I developed during law school and training as a lawyer have been invaluable.

When did your interest in Indigenous banking and economic development start?

My interest grew out of the practice of Indigenous law and land claims. I was closely following the Nunatsiavut government (formerly the Labrador Inuit Association) in their land claim negotiations. I accepted a position with the federal government to gain a better understanding of policy and law as it applied to these negotiations.

I worked for a cabinet minister as a senior advisor and later as a northern advisor for the Northwest Territories, Yukon, and Nunavut, as well as for Inuit issues. In the territories, I noticed a real intersection between law, business, and government, and it excited me to see what Indigenous-owned businesses were doing in this region. It made me curious about opportunities for these businesses with greater access to financing and capital, and the potential impact on the economy.

As the CEO of Cedar Leaf Capital, what is your vision for the organization?

At , we are the first Indigenous majority-owned investment dealer in Canada. Indigenous people, businesses, and communities are significantly underrepresented within capital markets, and we wanted to build something that would have an impact in a sector of Canada’s economy that was challenging for Indigenous people to enter.

My long-term vision for the company includes a few things. The first is to continue to educate, support, and bring to light what it means for Indigenous participation in capital markets and the benefits to the Canadian economy. I also see continued growth for the company, particularly in the next five years. We are, and will continue to be, committed to hiring, developing and training young Indigenous people.

What inspires or motivates you?