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Change your tide, change your life.

K’waahlgahlda is Xaaydaa Kil (Haida language) for: changing the tide.

Two-Spirited Cultural Ambassador

Diversity, Equity, & Inclusion Strategist, Indigenous Advisor

Serving the unceeded territories of the Sylix and Okanagan Nations (Vernon, BC).

What is a Two Spirited Cultural Ambassador?

Authentic representation is of utmost importance as it upholds the value of integrity and enables meaningful impact and transformative change within the DEI (Diversity, Equity, & Inclusion) sector.

Without genuine representation, there is a risk of compromising integrity, eroding rapport, and undermining trust, which hinders progress.

Additionally, the absence of authentic representation can inadvertently perpetuate cultural appropriation, particularly when engaging with Indigenous communities, potentially overshadowing their unique perspectives and experiences.

Why should you have one in your business?

Clear & Concise Communication: Enhances understanding, promotes efficient collaboration, and minimizes misunderstandings, leading to improved productivity and teamwork. Additionally, it fosters transparency, trust, and strong relationships among team members, enabling better decision-making and smoother workflow.

“I think the most important question facing humanity is, ‘Is the universe a friendly place?’ This is the first and most basic question all people must answer for themselves.”

— Albert Einstein

Gracefully Supporting Adversity

As a Two Spirited Cultural Ambassador, I aim to live Sg̱waansing K’uuga, a concept I developed, which means to live heart first.

How did I get here?

More About Me

By promoting a positive and inclusive work environment, you contribute to the overall success and well-being of the company, fostering a sense of belonging, equity, and shared values.

What is Culture in Business?

Why do we experience fear?

Shift your mind and heart from fear to curiosity.

Learn more

Everyone is invited to a seat at the table and encouraged to speak their truth. This disrupts tokenism.

Creating bridges between minority and majority peoples.

“Somewhere beyond right and wrong there is a garden. I will meet you there.” -Rumi

Learn more

Real Deadly Words.

  • Next Level Communicator

    “You [Sam] are one of the most impressive speakers I’ve ever had the pleasure to hear… You are next level [in terms of how you communicate]. It gave me goosebumps listening to it.”

    JILL SUTHERLAND, Client Operations Manager - Team Sage

  • I Learned So Much In Such a Short Period of Time

    “Thanks so much for speaking at our event. I really enjoyed the tone you set, it was one of understanding and acceptance and those two things are essential if we want to build bridges and effect change. I learned so much from you in such a short period of time, it was a real pleasure spending some time with you, Samantha.”

    KARRY BIETTE, Vice President - CANADA -DistributionNOW TS&M Supply

  • Land Acknowledgment Deepens Connection to the Land

    “Sam Panter's expertise in crafting a compelling Land Acknowledgment for our Winter Wonderland Show surpassed all expectations. With a keen understanding of the importance of acknowledging the Indigenous land on which our event took place, Sam beautifully articulated the historical and cultural significance, adding a profound layer of respect to our performance. The carefully chosen words and thoughtful phrasing demonstrated Sam's dedication to fostering an inclusive atmosphere. Thanks to Sam's contribution, our audience experienced not only a breathtaking dance performance but also a deepened connection to the land and its heritage. Thank you Sam!”

    OLIVIA GRAYCE, Owner - Sodance, Vernon, BC

  • Improving My Land Acknowledgement

    “I respectfully use Land Acknowledgments as part of my personal commitment to Truth and Reconciliation. Over the past few years, I have made adjustments to make the Acknowledgement more personal and respectful.

    I approached Samantha with an ask..."How could I improve my Land Acknowledgement?"

    Samantha provided me with some insights and personalization that have made a difference.

    Specifically, she helped me identify Calls to Action #69 and #70 of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission and how I am implementing strategies that advance reconciliation in partnership with Indigenous communities.

    Humble thanks Samantha”

    STEVE JENKINS, Executive Director - Greater Vernon Museum and Archives, Vernon, BC

  • Sharing Wisdom Nuggets

    “At the start of April, we had the privilege of welcoming Samantha Panter from K’waahlgahlda to this months Doula Chat. We had an incredible conversation of implied consent vs. informed consent and how important it is for doulas to not only know the difference but to be able to share that with their clients as well. Samantha shared so many nuggets of wisdom and we are so grateful for all time and effort put into this powerful talk. We hope to have Sam back for another Doula Chat! In the meantime, please give Sam a follow [social media]!”

    MARTHA LANPHEAR, BC Doulas Services Association

  • Feeling it's MY Responsibility to Learn More

    “A spark of learning has been lit in me Sam, thanks. I’m starting my diversity improvement with learning more about First Nations Peoples. (Cultures and values, more history etc) I mean. Having had several native friends in my life and a Métis husband I’m really feeling it’s MY responsibility to learn more. Not their (or your) responsibility to teach me. So yea.

    Truly thank you for sparking that.”

    SHELBY CURRIE, RMT

Set higher standards today.