Jeff Ward, General Manager of the Membertou Heritage Park, has nearly two decades of experience in management and administration. He will draw on his vast experience and knowledge in cultural tourism. As a Mi’kmaq consultant who led and facilitated interviews in support of the 2020 initiative to develop Authentic Mi’kmaw Cultural Tourism Guidelines, Jeff will be a co-lead on this project.
Jeff has extensive experience working in Indigenous Communities and managing both Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal teams. Growing up, he was always involved in community events and has been a leader in their planning, coordination, and participation. When it became time to pursue post-secondary education, the Bachelor of Arts Community Studies program at Cape Breton University was a natural fit. Currently, he is working on his Masters degree.

As a public figure, Jeff has been dancing, drumming and performing his way into people’s hearts since a child. He is currently a member of Kun’tewiktuk Singers, Sons of Membertou & Thunder Eagle Singers. Jeff performed at the 100th Anniversary of Vimy Ridge in France. He also Emcee’s numerous First Nation Pow-Wows in the Atlantic region and eastern USA. Jeff has been a keynote speaker and host for many conferences including MLSN Justice forum, Reform on Social Security AFN and the Commission of Murdered and Missing Indigenous Women’s & Girls’ Inquiry in Membertou.

Jeff has been referred to as Mi’kmaq Knowledge keeper/sharer. He is a leader in the White Eagle Sundance, a Lodge keeper, a drum keeper/maker; and a conductor of ceremonies, talking circles and justice circles with over 30 years of experiences.

•Former Co-Chair for Indigenous Performing Arts Alliance
•Parks Canada Mi’kmaw Advisory Committee and Fortress of Louisbourg Association Board of Directors.
•Co-Lead Development of Authentic Mi’kmaw Cultural Tourism Guidelines
•Vice-Chair Cape Breton YMCA
•Current Chair of the Membertou Heritage Park Elders Advisory Committee, and BGCCB ( Boys and Girls Club Sydney NS).