Seven Directions Consulting was registered in March 2002 as a sole proprietorship by Renée Masching. Renée is a member of Six Nations of the Grand River First Nation and of Irish descent, was adopted as an infant and grew up in a family of Eastern and Western European heritage. Over three decades, Renée has applied her skills and enthusiasm to leading community-based organizations, advising policy and decision-makers, and conducting research from a strengths-based perspective.

In 2024, Renée renewed her focus on leading Seven Directions Consulting and contributes to numerous exciting research projects nationally and globally. Through community engagement, research and policy, her goal is to advance knowledge, understanding, and the well-being of Indigenous peoples. Renée holds a Master of Social Work in Social Welfare Policy from McMaster University and received an Honorary Doctor of Laws from the University of Victoria in 2022, recognizing distinguished achievement in scholarship, research, teaching, and public service.

With over 20 years of experience in both academic and community-based research settings, Renée has a proven track record of delivering impactful and innovative research projects that address the health and social challenges faced by Indigenous communities in Canada and internationally. Contracts have included business development, field education supervision, strategic writing, proposal development, community engagement and research.