Carla J. Wallis is a dedicated project manager, cultural consultant, business owner, and self-published author with a profound commitment to preserving Indigenous culture, promoting wellness, and supporting community healing. As a Deline Got'ine Government beneficiary, Dene of the Sahtu, and the daughter of a residential school survivor, Carla understands the critical importance of creating spaces that foster cultural continuity and healing. She brings over 30 years of experience in cultural development, arts program management, and community engagement to her work.
Broad Business Management and Strategic Project Experience
In addition to founding Aurora Spirit Consulting to support Indigenous cultural initiatives, Carla has co-owned and managed Great Slave Adventures Fishing Tours, where she oversaw all business operations. She also owns a spa and esthetics training center, as well as a spiritual healing center. Her entrepreneurial background equips her with strong financial, operational, and customer relations skills—essential for managing complex community-focused projects.
Educational Foundation and Dedication to Cultural Development
Carla’s academic background in project management, leadership, and financial planning from institutions like the Alberta School of Business and Vancouver Community College along with her understudies at Brandon University underpins her hands-on experience in arts and cultural programming. As the founder of the NWT Arts Program, she developed policies that amplified Northern artists’ visibility and fostered economic growth. Her approach includes sustainable operations and culturally resonant programming to maximize impact within communities.
Commitment to Community Healing and Cultural Preservation
Carla’s background as the daughter of a residential school survivor provides her with a deep understanding of the need for cultural and healing spaces. Her work supports the development of environments where traditional skills, Dene stories, and intergenerational knowledge can thrive. Her focus aligns with preserving culture, fostering economic stability, and promoting community unity through arts and cultural initiatives.
Promoting Economic Development through Cultural Tourism
Carla’s approach integrates cultural tourism with community-driven economic development, creating sustainable revenue streams that benefit local artists and engage visitors. Her work emphasizes the importance of cultural tourism, positioning arts and cultural spaces as both community assets and economic drivers that strengthen local pride and unity. With her experience, cultural insight, and dedication to community healing, Carla continues to support and lead initiatives that empower communities, foster wellness, and celebrate Indigenous culture.
Broad Business Management and Strategic Project Experience
In addition to founding Aurora Spirit Consulting to support Indigenous cultural initiatives, Carla has co-owned and managed Great Slave Adventures Fishing Tours, where she oversaw all business operations. She also owns a spa and esthetics training center, as well as a spiritual healing center. Her entrepreneurial background equips her with strong financial, operational, and customer relations skills—essential for managing complex community-focused projects.
Educational Foundation and Dedication to Cultural Development
Carla’s academic background in project management, leadership, and financial planning from institutions like the Alberta School of Business and Vancouver Community College along with her understudies at Brandon University underpins her hands-on experience in arts and cultural programming. As the founder of the NWT Arts Program, she developed policies that amplified Northern artists’ visibility and fostered economic growth. Her approach includes sustainable operations and culturally resonant programming to maximize impact within communities.
Commitment to Community Healing and Cultural Preservation
Carla’s background as the daughter of a residential school survivor provides her with a deep understanding of the need for cultural and healing spaces. Her work supports the development of environments where traditional skills, Dene stories, and intergenerational knowledge can thrive. Her focus aligns with preserving culture, fostering economic stability, and promoting community unity through arts and cultural initiatives.
Promoting Economic Development through Cultural Tourism
Carla’s approach integrates cultural tourism with community-driven economic development, creating sustainable revenue streams that benefit local artists and engage visitors. Her work emphasizes the importance of cultural tourism, positioning arts and cultural spaces as both community assets and economic drivers that strengthen local pride and unity. With her experience, cultural insight, and dedication to community healing, Carla continues to support and lead initiatives that empower communities, foster wellness, and celebrate Indigenous culture.