There's a new TD branch in Tsuut'ina, located just southwest of Calgary, that is unlike any other TD location in the province.
In fact, it's not like any other TD branch in Canada. It's the first branch on First Nation land in Alberta and the first in the Bank's history to be entirely staffed by colleagues from Indigenous communities.
"It's so special to be in a position of leadership and in a position of mentorship," says Jamie Albrecht, Manager of the Buffalo Run branch, who came out of retirement to oversee the new TD branch—a position she does not take lightly.
"Staff here want to make a difference in their communities so that challenges of the past are not going to be challenges of the future. How humbling is it to be the person that gets to walk that journey with them?"
The new branch – located in the "Shops at Buffalo Run" – was developed, from the ground up, in collaboration with Tsuut'ina Nation and the Taza Development team in the spirit of reconciliation. The Taza Development in Tsuut'ina is one of the largest First Nation development projects in North America, spanning more than 1,200 acres.
Working together, TD ensured that all details – from the materials used to the architectural forms of the building – were reflective of Tsuut'ina Nation's connection to the land and their respect for the environment.
Murals and artwork by artists from Tsuut'ina Nation are prominently displayed throughout the branch, and welcome signage is in both Tsuut'ina and English languages.
Albrecht says the branch was designed to embody a special relationship that helps enable more Indigenous Peoples to see themselves reflected in the financial industry.
These efforts of collaboration are reflective of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission's Call to Action #92, which calls on corporate Canada to engage in meaningful consultation with Indigenous Peoples ahead of economic development projects, and to ensure they have equitable access to jobs, training, and education opportunities.
"When people visit the location, it's an incredibly touching moment because there's now a branch that represents Indigenous Peoples," Albrecht says. "We don’t always see ourselves being represented."
The Buffalo Run branch opened in September and held a grand opening ceremony in collaboration with the community in October.
Here's a look inside: