About Us

We bring a unique and expert consulting approach to the social services, health, and community services sectors, grounded in innovation, collaboration, and system transformation. We work alongside organizations to strengthen system effectiveness, improve service integration, and support meaningful, long-term change that responds to complex social challenges.

We are guided by the meaning of Natawihowin—a Cree word meaning “the items needed for a cure”—which reflects our commitment to healing-centered approaches and culturally grounded practice. We support organizations and communities in addressing pressing social needs, including addiction, mental health, housing and homelessness, and integrated care systems.

We focus on advancing sustainable, impactful change that strengthens systems while keeping people, relationships, and community well-being at the centre. Through our work, we help organizations move beyond short-term fixes toward long-term transformation that is responsive, equitable, and rooted in the realities of the communities they serve.

Why Nâtawihowin Exists

We exist because the communities we serve deserve advisors who understand their context — not consultants who need it explained to them.

Our team includes those who have operated at the intersection of government, community, and impact for over two decades.

We exist to support meaningful, long-term transformation across social services, health, and community systems by bringing an innovative, collaborative, and systems-focused consulting approach. Guided by Natawihowin—the Cree word meaning “the items needed for a cure”—we are grounded in healing-centered, culturally informed practice that places people, relationships, and community well-being at the centre of change.

We work alongside organizations and communities to strengthen system effectiveness, improve integration, and address complex social challenges such as addiction, mental health, housing and homelessness, and integrated care. Our purpose is to move beyond short-term fixes and support sustainable, equitable solutions that reflect the lived realities of the communities we serve.

How We Work

We prioritize transparent communication, responsible stewardship of resources, and measurable results that demonstrate both social impact and organizational effectiveness. Through meaningful engagement with community stakeholders, funders, partners, and leadership teams, we foster collaborative approaches that build trust, strengthen relationships, and support sustainable outcomes. Our work emphasizes adaptability, equity, and shared responsibility, ensuring programs and initiatives remain community-informed, financially responsible, and aligned with organizational values and strategic priorities.

Meet Our Team

Who We Are

Jessica Hutton

President | CEO

Jessica Hutton is a seasoned leader with over 15 years in senior management in the social service sector. She has a specialty in systems change, and her career has been dedicated to enhancing mental health and wellness services in rural and remote locations.

Jessica has been part of the pioneering of integrated service delivery models, specifically tailored to benefit rural and remote locations and the clients within them.

Jessica has worked providing services to youth, families, and adults in Alberta, Nunavut and British Columbia.

Jessica received her Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology from Thompson Rivers University and her Master’s Degree in Counselling Psychology from Athabasca University. Jessica is also a certified Human Rights Consultant.

Jessica was born and raised in British Columbia, and resides in Edmonton, Alberta where she enjoys exploring nature, literature, and new culinary experiences.

Chief Leonard Standingontheroad

Senior Consultant

Chief Leonard Standingontheroad is the former Chief for Montana First Nation, and the former Grand Chief of the Confederacy of Treaty Six First Nations. He was first elected to Montana First Nation council in 2005 and again in 2008. In 2017, he was elected Chief and won a second term in 2020. During his time on council, Montana First Nation has successfully started a business titled, Akamihk Kanataskiy Ventures (AKV) Ltd., which continues to generate a financial stream for the Nation.

A carpenter by trade, he worked for many years as a cabinet maker in Edmonton before returning to his home community in 1994. He became the Housing Director and oversaw the construction of multiple homes on the reserve.

Chief Standingontheroad’s traditional Cree name is Spotted Eagle. Raised with the Maskwacis Cree culture, its values, and traditions, Chief Standingontheroad strives to practice that way of life. Chief Standingontheroad is married and has three children, seven grandchildren and three great-grandchildren.

Hina Ali

Director, Creative Strategy

Hina Ali brings over 20 years of cross-sector experience supporting founders, executives, and organizations in moving ideas from vision to execution. In her role as Director of Creative Strategy, she oversees the design and delivery of creative initiatives, ensuring alignment between strategy, systems, and storytelling.

Her background spans health, nonprofit, and corporate sectors, with contributions including service as Co-Chair of the Labatt Family Heart Centre Advisory Committee at SickKids and faculty member with the SickKids Advanced Cardiology Education Program delivered in partnership with the University of Toronto.

Hina is also a certified fitness trainer, integrating principles of wellness and cognitive-behavioral practice into her approach. She resides in Toronto, where she enjoys writing, poetry, and exploring the city’s best pizza and gelato.

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Tyler Bear

Director, Innovative Solutions

Tyler brings over 20 years of experience in security and innovation, with a strong focus on serving rural and remote communities.

His deep understanding of the unique

challenges in these environments—shaped by years of hands-on experience living and working in them—allows him to approach problems with practical, innovative solutions.

Tyler’s work is recognized for its impact and relevance in areas where conventional approaches often fall short.

Rowan Luinenburg

Executive Assistant

Rowan brings a quiet strength and dependable rhythm to everything she supports. As Executive Assistant at Natawihowin, she combines sharp attention to detail with a calm, capable approach that helps ideas become action.

Originally from Calgary and now based in Edmonton, Rowan’s experience includes years of hands-on volunteer work with the Calgary Kart Racing Club and in veterinary clinics, roles that deepened her appreciation for focus, care, and clear systems. She holds a Veterinary Technical Assistant Certificate from Olds College and is currently pursuing a Bachelor of Science at the University of Alberta.

When she’s not working or studying, Rowan is likely lost in a good novel, rewatching her favourite musicals, or enjoying downtime with her family, whether that’s puzzles with her grandmother or gaming with her younger brother. Thoughtful, committed, and quietly excellent, she thrives in environments where trust and consistency matter.