Master of Ceremonies
Ross ‘MEMPHIS’ Pambrun
An international keynote speaker, Ross ‘MEMPHIS’ Pambrun is a talented, spirited, and engaging presenter who uses humour and storytelling to enhance his varied speaking engagements. Ross recently spoke at the ‘Wall Street Journal Future of Everything Festival’ in NYC about the social progress of Artificial Intelligence. An Indigenous Métis business leader, Ross is the CEO of a cyber innovation company, The Memphis Group, a 2023 Innovation Award winner for their artificial intelligence developed technology aimed at protecting communities and values at risk from wildfires. A popular emcee with experience as an actor and musician, he is skilled at connecting everyone in a room.
Ross’ recent popular presentation topics have included awareness, application, and the challenges of artificial intelligence. As well as his leadership talks, Ross presents on topics around navigating the Indigenous landscape and strengthening Indigenous relationships along with building awareness amongst attendees.
Ross proudly wears medals awarded from the Province of Alberta and City of Calgary for his 24+ years of service as a professional firefighter. A popular emcee with experience as an international actor and musician, he is skilled at connecting everyone in a room. Ross completed a 100-podcast-episode series interviewing guests from diverse backgrounds and is the lead host of a 13 episode Treasure Hunting TV show ‘Red River Gold’ released on May 5,2025. Watch for the show on national broadcaster APTN. With a strong Métis heritage, Ross is keen to share stories and build on a growing narrative through new and engaging conversations. Follow Ross ‘MEMPHIS’ Pambrun’s journey and learn more about him at www.rosspambrun.ca
Métis Jamboree
Kick off Alberta Métis Fest at our Friday Night Métis Jamboree, featuring Rockin’ Fiddle and performances from Lee & Michelle Arcand! Stick around Friday evening after bingo and the fish fry for toe-tapping tunes and good vibes — you won’t want to miss it!
Homeland Hour
Donny Parenteau
Donny Parenteau is a proud Metis Country Music artist, born and raised in Prince Albert, Saskatchewan. Donny is a multi-instrumentalist, a singer-songwriter, and is one of the most nominated Independent acts in Canada.
Donny spent 12 years touring the world with Neal McCoy, recording on multi-platinum selling albums, and played on numerous shows with performances on The Grand Ole Opry, and The Tonight Show with Jay Leno.
After starting his solo career in 2003, Donny has garnered more than 100 nominations at 7 major awards shows, which include 3 Juno nominations, and his first USA nomination for Best Country CD at the 2014 Native American Music Awards. His latest CD, Bring It On, is the only CD placed in a time capsule at the Regina Legislative Building, to be opened in 100 years, because of Donny’s song Deep In the Heart of Saskatchewan.
Donny’s latest singles from 2020 to 2024 have all been added to the Indigenous Music Countdown, and made it to the top five spots, while also being played on Sirius 165- Indigiverse. Parenteau’s last 4 singles have all reached #1 on MBC Saskatchewan’s Indigenous Countdown, and his latest single, It’s All I Need, went #1 on the Indigenous Music Countdown top 40 across Canada. Today, Donny continues to teach music at his Donny Parenteau School of Music, and performs with his band across Canada.
Alberta Métis Music Showcase Performers
- Métis Child & Family Dancers with Darla Daniels
- Grime N’ Punishment
- Fox Pickard
- Robin Cisek
- Aaron Whitford
- Cory Poitras
- Cynthia Hamar
- Brettyn Rose
- Jaiden Riley
- Kyran Reid
- Erin Berland
- Brody Jerome
- Dean Olson
Messages of Support
Message from the Prime Minister of Canada
I am pleased to extend my warmest greetings to everyone attending the Otipemisiwak Métis Government’s 8th Annual Alberta Métis Fest.
This gathering offers an opportunity to celebrate the richness of Métis culture, including its language, music, dance, storytelling, and artistic traditions. These expressions reflect the history, resilience, and enduring spirit of the Métis people, and help ensure that these traditions continue to thrive for generations to come.
The festival is also an occasion to recognize the strength and vitality of the Métis Nation, and the important contributions Métis communities make across Canada.
Canada is proud to stand with the Métis Nation and remains committed to working in partnership with Métis governments in support of reconciliation and the continued advancement of Métis self-determination.
As we mark this special event, let us come together with family, neighbours, and friends to enjoy the remarkable performances, cultural demonstrations, music, and food that make this celebration so unique.
I would like to acknowledge the dedication of the Otipemisiwak Métis Government, performers, and volunteers whose efforts make this festival possible.
Please accept my very best wishes for a memorable gathering.
Message from the Premier of Alberta
On behalf of the Government of Alberta, it is my pleasure to send greetings to the eighth annual Métis Fest.
Métis people have a profound connection to this land, pre-dating the creation of our nation and province. Your distinct culture, language, and way of life have played a crucial role in Alberta’s history, society and economy.
This family-friendly weekend is a wonderful opportunity to gather with people from across the Métis homeland, celebrate your vibrant heritage and strengthen community bonds. Whether you’re taking in the battle of the bands, jigging competition, performers or other activities, I hope you’ll have a great time connecting with your friends, family and rich culture.
Enjoy the weekend!
