RECOGNIZING EXCELLENCE - FRED MARTIN
Describe your job in just under four sentences.
My job as a Communications Specialist involves the assessment, distillation and creation of a client’s promotional resources and assets and then finding ways of advertising and marketing of curated, key-messaging assets to an ever-increasing audience and building a robust online profile. This is done through online, print and branded event management that includes website SEO; brand management and policy; social media and E-mail marketing; digital content creation through 3rd party creative production companies and individuals; support and management of internal and external communications to streamline flow of information and a host of other industry best practices.
Where do you see yourself in 5 years?
In 5 years, I would like to be an employer of several associates running multiple client campaigns and key messaging through print and digital communications and event management including film, television and media production.
What does success look like to you?
Success to me is a strong and well-connected community. I have begun to make it my life’s work to promote the related issues found in the Indigenous and Special Needs communities specifically concerning health, education, employment, housing and social connectiveness. I am determined to find new and innovative ways to connect individuals within these communities with government agencies, organizations and indeed themselves so that they may prosper in an increasingly diverse, urban environment.
What has been the most outstanding moment thus far in your career?
My most outstanding achievement has been being a pioneer and architect for a Special Needs social program in Halifax, Nova Scotia. Affectionately called The Club or Club Inclusion, it is a space of social, cultural, recreational inclusion for people of all abilities to come together to form meaningful connections and relationships and a place to celebrate their own unique gifts. The Club has just marked the auspicious milestone of 10 years as a leader in community building and providing user-led opportunities that are fully accessible to people with a wide range of disabilities, challenges, and special needs
Do you volunteer? If so, where and why is that important to you?
I volunteer with many sectors of society but most notably the Indigenous and Special Needs communities. As a knowledge keeper I have led many ceremonies closely related to Sacred Gatherings and Pow Wow and also organized many community focused fundraisers and social gatherings. For the Special Needs community, I have been involved in the creation of social clubs, mentoring and programming specifically tailored for people with mobility and cognitive disabilities. I believe these two communities need the highest levels of advocacy and specialized programming to fill the many gaps in societal infrastructure.
Do you have any advice for other Indigenous professionals in Canada?
Education and mentorship are the greatest ways to ensure the next generation of indigenous youth are prepared for the challenging markets of Canadian Media. I firmly believe that every Indigenous professional should be a role model and find ways of introducing and exposing youth to their chosen fields of work to inspire and ease the transition from learning to practise. The quicker the next generation can gain insight and learn skills in their chosen vocation the sooner they may begin to advance their own careers and become leaders in their industries.
What do you think is the most unique challenge for an Indigenous person in your industries?
One factor in Publicity, Promotion and Communications is ensuring that the Indigenous voice is heard. Specifically, when promoting Indigenous organizations. It is easy to get lost in best practises of the industry, but one should always remember to be true to iconography, symbolism and tradition within the Indigenous historical record and avoid any form of cultural misappropriation.
What made you interested in joining the Indigenous Professional Association of Canada and why would you encourage others to join?
One mitigating factor for joining the Aboriginal Professional Association of Canada was the community building and potential for networking. Canada is an extremely large and diverse market and it is easy to get lost in the shuffle, so I believe it is important to remain as connected as possible. APAC provides many valuable resources and is a hub of like-minded professionals aimed at developing a strong community of Indigenous industry leaders.