Join us at First Nations House for a candid conversation about unexpected opportunities, nonlinear careers and what it really means to find meaningful work.
- Food & drink will be provided
- In-person event
- Q&A follows the discussion
Award-winning U of T law professor David Walders (HBA 2005 TRIN, JD 2008, LLM 2022) has built a career spanning corporate law in New York, international affairs at the United Nations, consulting, teaching and Indigenous relations. Hear how a series of unexpected opportunities shaped his path, and why, when planning a career, you may not always need to know the next step.
David will also reflect on how his connection to Alderville First Nation, the influence of his grandmother and his professional experiences helped shape his work in Indigenous relations. The conversation will explore why Indigenous relations and reconciliation increasingly matter across all professional fields, and how students can approach these subjects with curiosity, respect and a willingness to learn.
Whether you are just beginning to think about life after graduation or reconsidering where your own path might lead, you’ll leave with ideas that can help you navigate uncertainty, recognize opportunities and build a career that evolves with you.
Space is limited, so register early!
About David
David Walders, is a lawyer, law professor, consultant, and advisor who has worked with Indigenous communities in Canada in various capacities, including project finance, business structuring, and supporting Indigenous rights related to consultation and engagement. He is an Adjunct Professor of Law and a Graduate Faculty Member at the University of Toronto Faculty of Law, teaching both JD and graduate students in the areas of Aboriginal Law and Policy. In 2024, David was awarded the Truth & Reconciliation Teaching Award, which recognizes professors who have made an outstanding contribution to the implementation of Call to Action #28 from the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada's Final Report.
Currently, David leads Indigenous Relations at the Ontario Energy Board. He is also the Founder and Principal Consultant of Cedarwood Consulting. David began his career in New York City, working first as a Corporate Associate at Paul, Weiss, Rifkind, Wharton & Garrison LLP, and then working at the United Nations.
David holds an Honours Bachelor of Arts, a Juris Doctor, and a Master of Laws from the University of Toronto. He is Anishinaabe, and his family is from Alderville First Nation.
Have questions about this event?
Contact Adrian Barrow, Alumni Engagement Coordinator at adrian.barrow@utoronto.ca
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