John Rowinski

JOHN ROWINSKI is Kanyen’kehà:ka, from the Mohawks of the Bay of Quinte.

He is a lawyer with over 20 years’ experience in both Bay Street and sole practice settings. As a lawyer John acted on behalf of individuals, First Nations, corporations and related organizations in dispute resolution; negotiated contracts, policies and procedures for First Nations; advised on for-profit and non-profit corporate issues and matters of internal and board governance; and assisted in First Nation trust formation and governance. His practice encompassed professional liability, commercial and civil litigation, and business advice.

John has served as the Chair of the Ontario Bar Association’s Aboriginal Law Section, a member of the Canadian Bar Association’s National Aboriginal Law Section Executive, and an adjunct professor with Queen’s Law School. He has served and continues to serve as a director and/or officer of numerous boards and committees, including as a Canadian Council for Indigenous Business Board Member and a Director of WTFN Investment Holdings LP. John is a frequent speaker at conferences and workshops, and is a member of the Institute of Corporate Directors.

John left the practice of law in June, 2020 to devote his work to the field of First Nation economic development. In 2023 John became CEO of Zhooniya Makak LP; in 2026 he added the role of CEO of Ajijaak RPAS LP to his responsibilities.

In his role with Zhooniya Makak LP, John oversees the management of the investments and for-profit
enterprises of Hiawatha First Nation, which include energy & infrastructure holdings, construction, new technology, real estate and service businesses. ZMLP’s purpose is to engage in, and develop, wealth creation opportunities for Hiawatha to support the community’s access to sustainable sources of revenue for the next seven generations and beyond.