“Together, we can break down barriers, unlock opportunities and create a more inclusive, sustainable economy - where everyone wins. But to do that we need new ways of thinking and doing.”
— Shannon Pestun
Shannon is the CEO of Pestun Consulting and Co-founder of The Finance Cafe. She also is a Senior Advisor to the Diversity Institute.
Over her career, Shannon has worked with academic, nonprofit, industry and governments from across Canada to build a more inclusive economy. Her experience, advocacy and leadership have made her a sought-after advisor and trusted voice on inclusive economic transformation.
Shannon is an accomplished speaker who has spoken not only across Canada but internationally, sharing the challenges and successes of building an inclusive and sustainable economy. Her compassionate and warm expertise speaks across differences to show how together we can break down barriers, build sustainable partnerships, unlock innovation and create a more inclusive economy.
As a Métis woman, Shannon is passionate about reconciliation and the economic empowerment of Indigenous Peoples. In 2020, she created the Gifting Circle Bursary for Indigenous women entrepreneurs raising nearly $200,000 in support of advancing Indigenous women’s entrepreneurship in Canada.
Originating from the Métis homeland in Treaty 1, Shannon now resides in Treaty 7. She is a proud member of the Métis Nation of Alberta.
Meet Shannon
Shannon’s Ventures
Pestun Consulting Inc.
What if we could create an equal society without sacrificing economic freedom or wealth?Accelerating inclusive economic transformation across the ecosystem is complex and ever-evolving. As the principal consultant at Pestun Consulting, Shannon has worked with all levels of government, civil society, the financial services sector and advanced education, providing strategic consulting and advisory services that promote inclusive economic transformation.
The Finance Cafe
Women entrepreneurs are powering global prosperity. That’s why our mission is critical: to empower women through financial knowledge to start, grow and sustain successful businesses, so they can redefine the future for themselves, their families and communities. The Finance Cafe is Canada’s first gender-focused entrepreneurial financial learning program to help women entrepreneurs – and those who support them – deepen their financial management skills and build a lifelong relationship with financial literacy.
The Gifting Circle Bursary
As a Métis woman, Shannon is passionate about reconciliation and the economic empowerment of Indigenous women. In 2020, she created the Gifting Circle Bursary for Indigenous women entrepreneurs raising close to $200,000 in support of advancing Indigenous women’s entrepreneurship in Canada. The Gifting Circle Bursary is an effort of community and collective giving to support Indigenous women who want to pursue entrepreneurship in Canada’s post-secondary institutions. Together, we can create meaningful ways to drive economic reconciliation and support the future of Indigenous women’s entrepreneurship. Be part of economic reconciliation.
Conversations for change
Keynotes and presentations
In addition to keynote programs, Shannon is a sought-after speaker and advisor for activities including panel moderation, workshops, seminars, webinars, and more. Her compassionate and warm expertise speaks across differences audiences and inspires action.
Knowledge Contribution
Media and publications
Shannon is a trusted advisor and leading authority on Truth and Reconciliation, Gender Equality, Inclusive Workplaces and Inclusive Entrepreneurship. She has been interviewed and featured in publications and broadcasts across the country. She is a published author and a national and international speaker.