REP Giwaydin Security Inc. is an Indigenous-owned company in Thunder Bay serving Northwestern Ontario. Its owner, Ashley Johnson, is proud of her heritage, and that pride is displayed in the company’s name – giwaydin means north in Ojibway. The leadership team of Johnson, Manish Agarwal (President), and Robert Woods (Team Lead & Indigenous Relations) were all born and raised in Northwestern Ontario, and their roots run deep there. This unique perspective allows them to understand the challenges faced by their region. REP Giwaydin, may be a new MineConnect member, but their clients benefit from their leadership team’s combined 70+ years of experience. Their confidence stems from their knowledge and unwavering commitment to delivering consistent and exceptional service to their clients.
“We specialize in providing professional security-guard services throughout Northwestern Ontario – from Wawa to the Manitoba Border. Our operations are centrally managed from Thunder Bay, ensuring efficient coordination and responsiveness,” explained Johnson.
Johnson took her first steps into the security industry while attending Confederation College for a Social Work diploma, during which she began working as a Security Guard in addition to her Bachelor of Science in Nursing. She was then recruited as the first employee of the (then) newly formed REP Security Inc. Johnson’s determination and extensive knowledge in the industry, enabled her to quickly rise through the ranks and become a supervisor and later a manager. However, never satisfied and always ambitious, Johnson partnered with REP Security to create a new Indigenous-and-female-owned company, and REP Giwaydin Security Inc. was formed. While Johnson currently resides in Thunder Bay, she grew up in Caramat, Ontario, and her heritage can be traced back to Pic River Biigtigong Nishnaabeg Ojibway, First Nation, on the northern shore of Lake Superior.
President, Manish Agarwal is a seasoned security professional with 25 years of experience in the industry. Born and raised in Thunder Bay, Agarwal holds an honours degree in Human Resource Management & Industrial Relations from Lakehead University. His education and experience allow him to better understand and navigate the unique challenges faced by our region.
Rounding out the team is Robert Woods – Team Lead and Indigenous Relations Representative. Woods is a valued member of the Thunder Bay community and a veteran of the Thunder Bay Police Force, where he served for 30 years with distinction. As a member of the security team, he shares his extensive knowledge and experience with his colleagues, and mentors the aspiring professionals who respect his achievements. He is also proud of his Indigenous heritage and culture.
REP Giwaydin Security Inc., offers a wide range of services, including:
- Uniformed Security: Their highly trained guards provide a visible and reassuring presence.
- Site set-up/shutdown: Efficiently manage security during project phases.
- Energy Projects: Protecting critical infrastructure for sustainable energy.
- Mine Site Security and Safety (Exploration Sites): Safeguarding mining operations.
- Camp Security / Access Control: Controlling access to remote sites.
- Emergency Response: Rapid and effective action in crises.
- Special Events Security: From concerts, pow-wows, hockey tournaments and conferences, they ensure safety during gatherings.
- Patrol Services: Regular checks to maintain security.
- 24/7 Security: Round-the-clock protection for peace of mind.
When asked which project they’re especially proud to have been involved in, Johnson replied “We’re working with Avalon Advanced Materials to provide site security for their 383-acre property for the Strathcona Industrial Land Lithium Processing Facility. Avalon is bringing a multi-billion dollar lithium industry to Northwestern Ontario and is proposed to create 500 jobs for the region and create a long-lasting economic boom. We’re excited and proud to be a part of that. Ultimately, whether the contract is big or small, we enjoy keeping our community safe.”
