Icebreakers: A conversation about Canadian and Eurasian business

In today's episode, we're excited to chat with Tim Gitzel, the President and CEO of Cameco Corporation, the world's largest uranium producer. With over 25 years of senior management and legal experience in Canadian and international uranium mining, Mr. Gitzel has a wealth of knowledge and expertise to share with our listeners.As the Honorary Council of Kazakhstan to Saskatchewan and a Board member of various prestigious organizations including the World Nuclear Association and the Kazakhstan - Canada Business Council, Mr. Gitzel provides valuable insights on the transformation of Kazakhstan's mining industry and what makes the country an attractive destination for foreign investors.Related links to this episode:CamecoKazakhstan Canada Business Council (KCBC)KazatompromTimeline:00:00 Intro00:36 - Introducing Tim Gitzel1:56 Growing up in communities of Northern Saskatchewan2:59 Hockey passion and a call that never comes4:30 Breaking into the uranium industry7:06 Uranium 2011: from ‘'sky-high” to “now what?”10:44 Cameco, as the largest industrial employer of Indigenous people13:14 Expanding to Kazakhstan market16:07 Modernization of Kazakhstan's mining sector18:00 Adapting to JORC code principles19:03 Cameco-Kazatomprom joint venture21:46 Honorary Consul of Kazakhstan in Saskatchewan24:33 Meeting with the President of the Republic of Kazakhstan27:49 Political leadership of the government of Kazakhstan30:22 Mr. Gitzel's advice on entering the Kazakhstan market33:35 Kazakhstan-Canada Business Council (KCBC)38:11 What made Tim Gitzel a leader?40:09 What does the future hold for Tim Gitzel?43:34 OutroIcebreakers is produced by CECC, an independent non-profit organization that promotes bilateral trade and investment between Canada and Eurasia. www.canadaeurasia.com

In today's episode we are joined by Mr. Peter McCann, a Management Consultant, an author of two business books, and now Advisor to the Rector at Tashkent Chemical Technologies Institute. Peter has over 30 years of experience in consulting small and large businesses in the USA & Canada, as well as taught and lectured in Finland, Germany, Kazakhstan and Kyrgyzstan.Peter shares his firsthand experience in establishing his own business and new professional and social life in Central Asia, education reforms in Uzbekistan and large-scale projects in partnership with the world leaders in vocational training. How will applying the best international practices address the core challenges in education? What opportunities does this tremendous transformation open for Canada-Uzbekistan cooperation?Related links to this episode:Tashkent Chemical-Technological InstituteSAIT'Strategy & Business Planning of Privately Held Companies' book by Peter McCann'Turnarounds: Brains, Guts & Stamina' book by Peter McCannTimeline:00:40 – Introducing Peter McCann1:40 – Radical transformation of the Tashkent Chemical Technologies Institute (TCTI)7:30 – Growing up in Ottawa's rural northwest9:20 – First career breakthroughs12:32 – Turnarounds and Consultancy practice13:42 – Early steps towards Kazakhstan in 199816:28 – Aftermath of moving to Central Asia21:55 – Meeting your better half and strengthening family bonds24:25 – Uzbek progress and hard work25:07 – Partnership with SAIT – the World Leaders in vocational training27:45 – “The LEADER” Project from Ivey Business School in TCTI30:03 – Life lessons taken from Judo33:50 – What made Mr.Peter McCann a leader?35:35 – What does the future hold for Peter McCann?36:49 – ClosingIcebreakers is produced by CECC, an independent non-profit organization that promotes bilateral trade and investment between Canada and Eurasia. www.canadaeurasia.com

Today we're hosting Dr. Jean-François Caron, an Associate Professor and Chair of the Department of Political Science and International Relations at Nazarbayev University in Kazakhstan, where he teaches Political Theory. Dr. Caron has authored 6 monographs and more than 20 peer reviewed articles and book chapters.Jean-François shares a story of his career development in a cross-national perspective, forming family, teaching and living in Kazakhstan. He also elaborates on principles and admission criteria in the Nazarbayev University, as well as discusses State Scholarship Opportunities for foreign students.Related links to this episode:Nazarbayev UniversityTimeline:0:40 – Introducing Jean-François Caron2:18 – Early life integration into educational environment3:41 – English-based teaching in Nazarbayev University4:59 – From Plato to Francisco Nguema7:45 – From Canadian Ministry of Aboriginal Affairs to affiliate work in Poland9:41 – Meeting significant other on a 1st day in Kazakhstan12:43 – Merit-based admission to Nazarbayev University16:15 – hard work is always gets paid off18:57 – The logic of meritocracy24:17 – Adjusting to virtual environment29:27 – Tapping into technology30:37 – Subtleties of the Kazakh language33:54 – Kazakh wedding traditions35:52 – Canada-Kazakhstan cooperation opportunities in education39:20 – Foreign students at Nazarbayev University41:05 – What made Dr.Caron a leader?42:46 – What does the future hold for Dr.Caron?44:29 – Kazakh hospitality47:22 – ClosingIcebreakers is produced by CECC, an independent non-profit organization that promotes bilateral trade and investment between Canada and Eurasia. www.canadaeurasia.com

Join us on a journey through the heart of Central Asia and the birthplace of 1001 Arabian Nights - the Republic of Uzbekistan. Visit Tashkent and Navoi, Khiva and Samarkand, Kyzylkum and Aralkum deserts - all through the eyes of the Canadian Honorary Consul of Canada in Uzbekistan and Managing Partner at Dentons Uzbekistan - Mr. Eldor Mannopov.In this episode, we discuss the progressive reforms and improvements introduced by the government of Shavkat Mirziyoyev in support of the foreign business, Uzbek's extraordinary hospitality and personal experiences living and working in the country. Related links to this episode:Dentons UzbekistanCanadian Consulate in UzbekistanTimeline:00:40 Intro00:50 Considering an “honorable profession”04:26 Merging with Dentons05:10 Landmark M&A: privatization of Coca-Cola in Uzbekistan 06:21 Gosplan years08:23 President Merziyoyev era9:51 Monetary policy reform14:33 Tax reform: stable and transparent regime17:31 Public procurement laws and e-government innovations20:23 1001 Arabian Night stories' birthplace21:51 Mining industry reform in Uzbekistan 27:27 Foreign investors in Uzbekistan mining 30:13 Desert fishing with Ambassador John Kur32:22 6 million tons of cotton and the death of the Aral Sea: ESG solutions 34:46 Extraordinary hospitality of Uzbek people36:26 Goals-based living36:52 What does the future hold for Eldor?37:23 OutroIcebreakers is produced by CECC, an independent non-profit organization that promotes bilateral trade and investment between Canada and Eurasia. www.canadaeurasia.com

We are excited to host Mr. Darren Klinck today, President and Director at the Arras Minerals – a Canadian junior mining & exploration company operating in Kazakhstan.Darren has extensive international experience in mining, having raised over 800 million for the projects globally including Guatemala, Laos, Australia, New Zeeland and Myanmar. He is sharing his personal stories about growing up in rural Alberta, getting involved in mining and capital markets, founding the first ever Canadian junior mining company in Kazakhstan and providing a piece of advice for Canadian investors considering Eurasia.Related links:CECCArras MineralsKazakhstan Canada Business Council 2022 (KCBC)Timeline:00:00 Intro00:40 Introducing Darren Klinck01:26 Growing up in rural Alberta02:30 Close encounter in snowy Sierra, Northern Mexico06:03 Headhunters in the Philippines06:54 From Yangon to Nay Pyi Taw08:52 Gold Rush in South Carolina11:32 Getting excited over an opportunity in Kazakhstan12:44 Similarities to Canada13:58 Western approach to doing business15:30 Do investors feel comfortable? Perceptions17:30 Attracting more junior miners to Kazakhstan19:45 Crisis management22:00 Going public25:46 Advice for Canadian investors26:53 Enchanting and eclectic Nur-Sultan28:22 Kazakhstan Canada Business Council 202229:25 Fundraising insights30:39 What made Darren a leader?31:27 What does the future hold?32:45 ClosingIcebreakers is produced by CECC, an independent non-profit organization that promotes bilateral trade and investment between Canada and Eurasia. www.canadaeurasia.com

We are hosting Mr. Jim Gibson today, Chief Catalyst and Community Leader at the Southern Alberta Institute of Technology (SAIT). Jim is a passionate serial entrepreneur and author of “Tip of the Spear: Our Species and Technology at a Crossroads”. Jim brings over 30 years of experience in digital technologies, innovations, mentorship, and technological ventures into the conversation.With his help we are exploring the notion of digital literacy and digital citizenship as well as investigate the coming tsunami of technological change. Precisely, how will the exponential technological growth influence our lives, education sector and contemporary youth? What are the opportunities for Canada-Eurasia collaboration and what does “How to change the World” program contribute to the global education industry?Related links:SAITSADT"How to change the World" Program"Tip of the Spear: Our Species and Technology at a Crossroads" book by Jim GibsonTimeline:00:00 Intro00:40 Welcome Jim Gibson1:27 What does it mean to be digitally literate?4:46 Digital Intelligence classes for digital natives by SAIT9:05 Understanding your digital footprint11:00 Technology genie out of the bottle but the legislation is lagging14:21 What skills will students need in the future?16:12 Will we reach singularity soon?18:03 20 years of change in 20 months20:51 International programs and corporate trainings24:03Smart cities26:43 “How to Change the World” program31:17 SAIT School of Advanced Digital Technology (SADT)34:00 The role of mentorship in education36:02 What made you a Leader?36:56 Pay attention! Or What does the future hold?38:20 OutroIcebreakers is produced by CECC, an independent non-profit organization that promotes bilateral trade and investment between Canada and Eurasia. www.canadaeurasia.com

It's time to hear words of wisdom from our honoured guest and oil and gas expert, Mr. Don Streu, Honorary Consul of the Republic of Kazakhstan in Alberta and President, CEO and Director at Condor Petroleum.Don has over 35 years of experience in the oil & gas industry globally: from Angola to Indonesia, from Canada to Central Asia. He's sharing his personal experience of operating a company in Kazakhstan, exploring the Uzbekistan market, working with oil & gas reserves, and leading LNG technological revolution in Central Asia.Related links:Condor PetroleumChevronEmbassy of the Republic of Kazakhstan to CanadaEmbassy of Canada to the Republic of Kazakhstan,Kyrgyz Republic and TajikistanTimeline0:00 Intro0:40 Welcome Don Streu1:24 The heart of the new West (Alberta)2:36 Will the current uptick in Gas & Oil price help Alberta's economy?3:50 Starting with Shevron in 19865:52 The “Three No” Rule and move to Angola11:04 Experiences in Indonesia and Nigeria14:09 Founding Condor Petroleum: turning to Kazakhstan16:25 What does it take to discover oil?17:53 Step in the right direction: introducing LNG technology in Kazakhstan20:19 Ethical oil22:48 Can-do attitude: Kazakhstani and Uzbekistani culture and professionalism25:36 Opportunities in Uzbekistan26:43 Leading the small-scale LNG revolution29:53 What does it mean to be an Honorary Consul of Republic of Kazakhstan in Alberta?31:39 Enjoying Alberta and Ontario beef in Kazakhstan33:12 Positive reforms in Kazakhstan36:14 What made Don a leader?37:09 What does the future hold for Don Streu?39:21 OutroIcebreakers is produced by CERBA, an independent non-profit organization that promotes bilateral trade and investment between Canada and Eurasia. www.cerbanet.org

We're turning the tables on Nathan Hunt today - the host for the ICE/Breakers Podcast - making him the interviewee. Nathan is a Yale University graduate, summa cum laude, and a former Russia Director of the Canadian meat and dairy traders, Ronald A. Chisholm Limited. Nathan is one of the founders of CERBA and has chaired its Moscow Chapter since its inception. He's sharing his experience of living and doing business in rapidly changing Russia reinventing himself and discovering new potential throughout two and a half decades in the country. Related links:CERBARonald A.Chisholm Ltd.LP/ADLadaCherkizovo GroupTimeline:0:00 Intro1:19 Setting the stage2:17 80s and early 90s speculating on cassette tapes in Russia4:40 Chicken purchase gone afoul7:30 Pivoting to the Canadian angle 10:00 Late 90s/early 2000s: Pioneering new sources of meat to Russia 12:10 CBAR inception13:58 Time when Russia favoured Canada15:30 Lada imports from the USSR to Canada17:58 Punching above our weight: CERBA story23:46 2008 recession and new beginnings 25:36 Early 2010s: CERBA expansion to Vancouver and Kazakhstan29:00 Hollywood Hunt: Larry King, Demi Moore & Ashton Kutcher 31:41 Let's be honest: Jean Charest meeting with Yuri Luzhkov 35:15 Business diplomacy 37:26 “Russia – a lousy place to do business, a great place to make money”38:59 “Harper, Putin to star in 1972 Summit Series rematch”44:00 The challenges and opportunities of the pandemic and climate change 47:04 What does the future hold for Nathan Hunt?51:32 What made Nathan a leader?Icebreakers is produced by CERBA, an independent non-profit organization that promotes bilateral trade and investment between Canada and Eurasia. www.cerbanet.org

In today's episode of Icebreakers, we welcome Darren Dietz, Canadian-born, former "Barys Nur-Sultan" team captain and current Russian CSKA hockey player. After a successful transition to "Barys" and KHL League, he became a national treasure among Kazakh fans and was awarded a KHL Defenseman of the Year in 2018/2019.Darren shares his professional hockey journey throughout the NHL and KHL leagues, as well as his experience living in the Republic of Kazakhstan. He also discusses international sports cooperation opportunities between Canada and Eurasia and his latest transition to the CSKA Moscow.Related Links:Barys Nur-Sultan Hockey ClubCSKA Moscow Hockey ClubNational Hockey League Kontinental Hockey LeagueTimeline:00:00 Intro00:41 Introducing Darren Dietz01:49 What is it like living in Kazakhstan?03:24 Alberta and "Medicine Hat Tigers" Team05:00 Drafted by Montreal Canadiens - Dream Come True!06:00 New experiences in KHL09:09 Greetings from Barys Team10:35 Becoming a Kazakh hockey legend and Team Captain13:24 Speaking Russian16:40 Fast-forward transition to CSKA Red Army team20:50 Darren the "Ptichka!"21:58 Reciting "Zimnee Utro" by Pushkin at All-Stars KHL event24:00 Common traits between Canadians, Kazakhs and Russians25:27 On perspectives between NHL and KHL28:05 50th Anniversary of Canada and USSR Superseries29:10 What made Darren a leader?29:55 What does the future hold for Darren Dietz?30:48 ConclusionIcebreakers is produced by CERBA, an independent non-profit organization that promotes bilateral trade and investment between Canada and Eurasia. www.cerbanet.org

Today we are joined by the former Canadian Ambassador to Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan and Tajikistan (2006-2009) – Honourable Margaret Skok. Margaret started her career with the RCMP Canada, as well as served with Global Affairs Canada at the Embassy of Canada in Moscow (1991 – 1994).She is sharing her experiences of unlocking Eurasian markets to Canadian businesses, the role of women in Central Asia, mobilizing change in Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan and Tajikistan and Canada's place in the international nuclear strategy.Related LinksCERBA Kazakhstan Canada Business CouncilCamecoRonald A. ChisholmCenterra GoldCanadian Trade Mission to Russia, Uzbekistan and ArmeniaCanadian Trade Mission to Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan and TajikistanTimeline00:00 Intro00:40 Introducing Margaret Skok1:36 Merry Christmas and Happy New Years: Julian and Gregorian Calendars2:05 Background: From WWII Poland on Queen Elizabeth through Pier 1 in Halifax to Saskatchewan 3:05 Career launch in federal public service4:07 Joining AG Canada5:20 Moscow 1991 - 19947:11 Farms in Russia and in the West12:31 Coup in Aug 199113:57 “Le Chateau Montebello” in Yakutia15:10 Elections and difficult transformations in Ukraine and Belarus17:24 Becoming an Ambassador of Canada to Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan and Tajikistan19:20 Mobilizing change20:17 The New Way – reforms in Kazakhstan21:15 Gold and education in Kyrgyzstan 24:00 Tajikistan: women in AG26:00 His Highness the Aga Khan26:40 Role of women in business – Central Asia28:31 Kazakhstan Canada Business Council31:50 Canada and international nuclear strategy34:11 What made Margaret a leader?36:30 What does the future hold for Margaret?37:30 Special thank you notes38:28 ConclusionIcebreakers is produced by CERBA, an independent non-profit organization that promotes bilateral trade and investment between Canada and Eurasia. www.cerbanet.org

IceBreakers welcomes Valerii Maximov, Senior Trade Commissioner of the Russian Federation in Canada, former Minister of Economy of the Republic of Sakha (Yakutia) and Advisor to the President of the Republic. Valerii will share the stories about the Republic of Sakha (Yakutia) - the world's largest administrative and territorial subdivision, a homeland for such known start-ups as InDriver and MyTona. We will also learn more about Yakut language and culture, success stories of cooperation with Canada and how the Canadian North is similar to that of Russia.Related LinksSilver Bear Republic of Sakha (Yakutia)Russian Trade Mission to CanadaTimeline00:00 intro00:42 Introducing Valerii Maximov1:48 5 X France Territory4:33 Career path7:53 $100,000 question about Canada - Yakutia cooperation9:46 The Sakha People10:39 Why Canada?11:52 The Nothern Forum13:30 Canadians in Yakutia14:36 Canada – Norway16:29 Spring-like weather of -35 in Yellowknife18:48 First Nations routes21:52 Bisons don't mind the virus24:21 More multinational projects in the Arctic needed26:03 The Polar Express project 202527:51 Yakutian creativity, mining and unmanned electric vehicles31:22 What does the future hold for Canada and Russia?32:52 What made Valerii Maximov a leader?33:35 What does the future hold for Valerii?34:25 ConclusionIcebreakers is produced by CERBA, an independent non-profit organization that promotes bilateral trade and investment between Canada and Eurasia. www.cerbanet.org

Today we welcome CERBA's old friend and its National Board member - Mr. Piotr Dutkiewicz, to the IceBreakers Podcast. Piotr is a Professor of Political Science and former Director of the Institute of European and Russian Studies at Carleton University. He is also an author of 16 books and a current Valdai Club member, a group of forty world-renowned experts on Russia.Piotr is sharing stories about his family, living and studying in Russia, moving to Canada, "Golden time" in Canada-Russia relations, teaching at Carleton University and the areas of prospective cooperation between our countries.Related Links to the EpisodeCarleton UniversityValdai ClubCanada Russia Business Council 2021Timeline:00:00 Intro00:40 Introducing Piotr Dutkiewicz1:42 Cultural shock5:13 Trademark of Russian culture6:44 Three letters to Oxford, Berkeley or Queens9:05 "Golden times" of European and Russian Institute at Carleton11:23 Deal with Russia "As Is"13:33 Global challenges - global responses16:57 Teaching at Carleton University21:20 CIDA projects24:17 Cooperate, not collide28:31 What is Valdai Club Foundation?33:19 What made Piotr a leader?34:10 What does the future hold for Piotr35:14 ConclusionIcebreakers is produced by CERBA, an independent non-profit organization that promotes bilateral trade and investment between Canada and Eurasia. www.cerbanet.org

CERBA is hosting an exceptional guest on this episode of IceBreakers: a heavily decorated astronaut, engineer, and pilot - Colonel Chris Hadfield. Chris is an astounding pioneer of many historic "firsts": the first astronaut to operate Canadarm in space, the first Canadian to board and pilot a Russian "Soyuz" spacecraft, the first and only Canadian ever to command an International Space Station (so far).Chris is sharing his stories about living, working and playing music in space, his life in Russia and being an influencer. He is also talking about his new book, "The Apollo Murders" - an exceptional Cold War thriller from the dark heart of the Space Race, described as "Nail-biting" by James Cameron, another Canadian star, the writer and director of Avatar and Titanic.Related Links to the episode:Chris Hadfield - "The Apollo Murders"NASARoscosmosTimeline:00:00 Intro00:40 Introducing Chris Hadfield2:08 Is Chris Hadfield an influencer?4:14 Music is everywhere (including the Space Station)5:36 "Menya zovut Chris Hadfield" - studying orbital mechanics in Russian 9:13 What do astronauts do before launch?12:28 Enriching life in Russian apartment14:45 Life in space20:44 "The Apollo Murders" - an exciting journey to an alternate past24:43 The mission that never really happened or did it?32:58 Back to the gravity36:46 Democratizing space travel40:14 How to land a "Soyuz"41:30 What made Chris a leader?42:01 What does the future hold for Chris Hadfield?43:24 Will Nathan lose his moon estate?45:44 ConclusionIcebreakers is produced by CERBA, an independent non-profit organization that promotes bilateral trade and investment between Canada and Eurasia. www.cerbanet.org

Nathan Hunt is joined by Gilles Breton - a former Canadian diplomat and a current CERBA National Chair. Gilles has served three assignments at the Canadian Embassy in Moscow and shares some great stories about his experience working in Russia during the Cold War; a 25,000km trip across the Soviet Union, heading CERBA and Canada-Russia Business Council.Related links to the episode:Canada Eurasia Russia Business Association (CERBA)Russia Canada Business Council (RCBC)Timeline00:00 Intro00:40 Introducing Gilles Breton1:41 Meeting Robert Ford and the first posting3:43 Mr.Costakis' Fine Arts collection7:52 Living in Soviet Moscow as a Canadian Diplomat10:35 Alexander Yakovlev speech writing power13:20 The art of the Communist Party discussions14:45 First visit of the Canadian Prime Minister to Russia17:54 "Fire!" with CTV news20:24 25,000km across the USSR21:39 visiting the Baltic States22:56 A magical rediscovery of Moscow26:24 Becoming CERBA National Chair28:14 Canada Russia Business Council29:19 What are the greatest opportunities for Canada-Eurasia economic cooperation?31:38 What made Gilles a leader?32:14 What does the future hold for Gilles?33:46 ConclusionIcebreakers is produced by CERBA, an independent non-profit organization that promotes bilateral trade and investment between Canada and Eurasia. www.cerbanet.org

Мы рады представить вашему вниманию подкаст Icebreakers - единственный подкаст о деловом и культурном сотрудничестве между Канадой и странами Евразии.Гость нашего нового выпуска - Владислав Третьяк, заслуженный мастер спорта СССР, трехкратный олимпийский чемпион, Президент Федерации Хоккея России и обладатель звания "Лучший хоккеист 20го века".00:00 Вступление00:48 Представляем Владислава Третьяка1:43 Стать хоккеистом, а не пилотом3:34 Кто оказал наибольшее влияние на спортивную карьеру Владислава4:02 Как жениться на девушке за 5 дней7:00 Первый визит в Канаду9:22 Секрет успеха сборной СССР по хоккею10:02 Суперсерии 1972г.11:18 Почему спортивный журналист Globe and Mail съел свою статью13:11 Самые запоминающиеся моменты игры против канадцев16:07 Почему Владислав не играл за Montreal Canadians18:30 Новые вызовы тренера Олимпийской сборной19:15 Награды за выдающиеся заслуги20:56 Благотворительный фонд Владислава Третьяка23:26 Стать членом парламента24:30 Сильно ли отличаются канадцы и русские?25:23 Что сделало Владислава лидером?26:02 Что ждет Владислава в будущем?27:02 Новый Третьяк у ворот?28:28 ЗаключениеВ эпизоде также упоминается:Ежегодный благотворительный аукцион CERBA с Владиславом Третьяком >>Все подробности по сотрудничеству и спонсорским пакетам доступны по следующей ссылке >>

In this exciting episode of IceBreakers, Nathan Hunt hosts Vladislav Tretiak, Honoured Master of Sports of the USSR, three-time Olympic hockey champion in 1972, 76 and 84 years; the winner of multiple Worlds Cup Championships and the "best hockey player of the 20th century" titleholder.Related links to this episode:CERBA annual Christmas Charity Auction with Vladislav Tretiak00:00 Intro00:40 Introducing Vladislav Tretiak1:36 A hockey player, not a pilot3:30 Vladislav's career influencers3:58 How to marry a girl in 5 days7:05 First visit to Canada9:24 USSR hockey team success recipe10:10 Superseries 197211:33 Why Globe and Mail sports journalist ate host article12:22 The most memorable moments playing against Canadians16:30 Why Vladislav didn't play for Montreal Canadians19:01 New challenges as an Olympic team coach19:51 Meritorious Service Award21:20 Vladislav Tretiak's Charity foundation23:52 Becoming a member of a Parlament24:55 Do Canadians and Russians differ a lot?25:50 What made Vladislav a leader26:28 What does the future hold for Vladislav?27:44 New Tretiak at the gates?28:59 ConclusionLearn more about CERBA here: https://www.cerbanet.org/

In this episode, Nathan and Lou Naumovski, former Vice President and Director-General of the Kinross gold Moscow office, discuss Lou's professional journey from the Trade Commission Service to the leading positions at EBRD, Visa International and Kinross Gold. Lou is sharing stories and the lessons learnt when working in the Russian market and reflecting on how to influence change through doing business in a sovereign country.Learn more about CERBA here: https://www.cerbanet.org/ Related links to this episode:EBRD Visa International Kinross GoldMcCain foodsBRP 0:00 - Intro0:39 - Introducing Lou Naumovski1:46 - Moving from Macedonia to Canada4:06 - How the Soviet Union was perceived in Canada in 70s-80s5:42 - Trade Commissioner Service - AG file10:46 - Working in Soviet Moscow14:20 - Reforming VISA in Russia17:31 - Introducing electronic payments22:05 - Improving Russian legislation: credit cards23:23 - Joining Kinross Gold to add value29:27 - Investing in the Russian mining sector36:31 - Contribution to the mining legislation38:40 - You don't learn until you make mistakes46:26 - Work-life balance51:52 - What made Lou a leader?52:54 - What does the future hold for Lou Naumovski?53:45 - Conclusion

In the new episode of IceBreakers, Nathan hosts Mr. Paul Fast, a founder of the well-known Vancouver structural engineering company, Fast+Epp. Paul is an award-winning engineer, designer, philanthropist. He and his brother Ed Fast, former Minister of International Trade and Asia-Pacific Gateway of Canada, were granted honorary citizens of Millerovo County in the Rostov Region, Russia, during their trip there in 2013. With the family routes going back to 1920s Germany and Russia, Paul has reconnected with the region and founded an orphanage for the kids in need. In addition to establishing the Memorial Foundation, the Fast family entered into an agreement with the Mayor of Millerovo which grants a 6-week internship in one of Fast+Epp engineering offices to the local Millerovo design competition winners associated with the Corporate Social Responsibility Forum. Nathan and Paul also discuss Paul's professional achievements in construction engineering, his work with sustainable materials, timber innovations and the noblest projects like Richmond Olympic Oval for the 2010 Winter Olympics in Vancouver.Learn more about CERBA here: https://www.cerbanet.org/0:00 – Intro0:41 - Introducing Paul Fast1:42 - Where does Fast family came from?7:32 - Charity work in the South of Russia13:01 - Memorial Foundation activities in Millerovo21:00 – Timber-hybrid engineering construction projects 18:58 - What Craig loves about Russians23:34 - How tall wood buildings can be?26:23 - 2010 Winter Olympics Richmond Oval project 32:01 - Gold Medal engineering award34:06 - How to make cables out of wood36:01 - What made Paul Fast a leader?38:28 - What does the future hold for Paul?40:54 - Conclusion

On this episode of Icebreakers, Nathan sits down with Craig Cohon, a London-based businessman, entrepreneur and investor, and the Chief Strategy Officer at ApiJect. Craig was first exposed to Canada-Russia trade 45 years ago at the age of 13, when his father, the founder and senior chairman of McDonald's Canada and McDonald's Russia, met with the Soviet Delegation in Montreal. Later, Craig volunteered for the weighty task of bringing Coca-Cola to the former Soviet Union during the 1990s. During the episode, Nathan and Craig discuss the process of introducing Coca-Cola to the area while it was undergoing major cultural and political upheaval to become Russia as we know it today. They also discuss Craig's experiences carrying the torch during the 2014 Sochi Winter Olympics, and bringing Cirque du Soleil to Russia.Learn more about CERBA here: https://www.cerbanet.org/0:00 – Intro0:39 - Introducing Craig Cohon1:29 - How it all started2:02 - Coca-Cola launch adventure in the USSR12:19 - Bringing Cirque du Soleil to Russia15:08 – Language barrier18:58 - What Craig loves about Russians23:44 - Visiting Sochi Olympics in 201428:04 - Contributing to nuclear disarmament31:38 - Backstage stories33:46 - Why Canadians and Russians have to work together34:54 - Outstanding birthday celebration37:14 - What made Craig a leader?37:50 - When Craig will come back to Russia39:42 - Conclusion

On this episode of Icebreakers, Nathan is joined by “Canada's Dan Brown”: Frank Albo. Albo is a Canadian architectural historian, the academic inspiration behind The Hermetic Code and the author of Astana: Architecture, Myth, and Destiny. Albo is responsible for extensive research into the Freemasonic and Hermetic symbolism of the Manitoba Legislative Building and has spent the last decade leading Hermetic Code Tours through the Manitoba Legislative Building, which more than 25,000 have taken. On today's episode, Nathan and Frank explore how freemasonry uses architecture as a vehicle for moral, spiritual and ethical illumination and Albo's reflections on Astana, freemasonry and the Canadian connection.Learn more about CERBA here: https://www.cerbanet.org/0:00 - Intro0:39 - Introducing Frank Albo1:45 - Freemasonic architecture tradition in Canada7:47 - Announcing Kazakhstan's arrival on the world stage11:50 - Core principles of Astana/Nur-Sultan architecture23:43 - Astana: The Eurasian Disney35:06 - Unique element of Kazakh nomadic life39:56 - Parallels between Canadian and Astana architecture42:42 - What made Frank Albo a leader?43:28 - Greatest priorities in life43:56 - Conclusion

On this episode of Icebreakers, Nathan is joined by Alison LeClaire, Canadian Ambassador to Russia, Armenia, and Uzbekistan. They discuss Alison's career history and path to becoming a diplomat, dating all the way back to high school when she noted her future ambition was to be an ambassador. Since then, the diplomatic landscape has changed; Alison and Nathan explore these changes and also reflect on Alison's experiences in Moscow, Sweden, on the Arctic file and all around the world. Alison also breaks down her perception of some of the inherent similarities Canadians share with Russians, Armenians and Uzbeks; including Northern identity (Russia), hope and energy for building the future (Uzbeks), pride in cultural legacy and heritage (Armenia), and so much more, before discussing business and trade.Learn more about CERBA here: https://www.cerbanet.org/0:00 - Intro0:39 - Introducing H.E. Alison LeClaire1:20 - How H.E. Alison LeClaire became a diplomat3:57 - How the diplomatic landscape has changed since 19876:05 - The most interesting adventure stories8:20 - Prime Ministerial visits in Sweden10:59 - Meeting with Vladimir Putin and prominent Russians12:28 - Impact of the pandemic on business, cultural exchange and diplomatic relations15:05 - What Vladislav Tretyak is like17:23 - Similarities between Canadians and Russians, Uzbeks and Armenians21:45 - Supporting business during the pandemic23:57 - Why Canada and Russia need to cooperate in the Arctic27:11 - How the Canadian Arctic differs from the Russian Arctic30:40 - Arctic - area of mutual cooperation33:15 - What made H.E. Alison LeClaire a leader34:26 - Priorities in life and hopes for the future35:47 - Conclusion

On this episode of Icebreakers, Nathan is joined by Ilya Lagutenko, the founder and lead-singer of Russia's most popular and influential bands – Mumiy Troll - an accomplished and influential musician who has not only won accolades like GQ's Musician of the Year, but has also had significant influence on the music, clothes, hairstyles and behaviour of Russian youth. Nathan and Ilya discuss his history growing up in Russia and becoming a musician, his views on the evolution of Eurasian culture, producing a Montreal-based singer and his passion projects such as the music and arts festival he created, Vladivostok Rocks (V-ROX).Icebreakers is produced by the Canada Eurasia Russia Business Association (CERBA), an independent non-profit organization that promotes bilateral trade and investment between Canada and Eurasia.Learn more about CERBA here:https://www.cerbanet.org/The Episode Features: 0:39 - Introducing Ilya Lagutenko1:26 - When did Ilya begin to sing?9:59 - Performance on Eurovision 200112:49 - Performance in Greenland18:22 - V-ROX international festival14:41 - Education and visit to China22:44 - How Ilya educated people about tigers25:16 - Impressions of Canada31:29 - Canada based project with the Montreal singer34:58 - Communication with fans during the pandemic40:00 - PSV bootcamp42:37 - Conclusion

On the inaugural episode of Icebreakers, Nathan is joined by Stockwell Day, an accomplished politician with over 25 years of experience in the public and private sectors. Stockwell reflects on his experiences visiting Eurasia during times of unprecedented, unparalleled change, in the early nineties, as things were “breaking open” and influencing the good, the bad, and the ugly of social and economic transformation. They also discuss business opportunities between Canada and Eurasia and how we can prioritize business relations in a way that builds a mindful and ethical future. Icebreakers is produced by the Canada Eurasia Russia Business Association (CERBA), an independent non-profit organization that promotes bilateral trade and investment between Canada and Eurasia. Learn more about CERBA here: https://www.cerbanet.org/ 0:00 - Intro0:40 - Introducing Honourable Stockwell Day1:36 - First impressions of Eurasian countries3:35 - Meeting with the first Russian president:Boris Yeltsin6:15 - Visiting post Soviet Moscow13:40 - Interaction with Russian military15:29 - First visit to Kazakhstan18:28 - Opportunities for Canadian business in Eurasian countries30:02 - Advice for Canadian investors investing in Russia and Eurasia32:22 - Priority number one in life33:18 - What made Stockwell Day a leader37:15 – Conclusion