First Nations Auditions is a scam

Warning issued to First Nations about talent search

Paul Pearson, touting First Nations version of Canadian Idol, ran fake trade showThe Union of B.C. Indian Chiefs is warning First Nations across the province to stay away from a talent contest that is targeting aboriginal youth and using the name Canadian Idol without permission.

Meanwhile, the company that owns the licence to Canadian Idol says the man behind the purported talent contest, who has a record of several convictions for fraud, must stop misusing its brand.

A CBC News investigation has revealed that a website called First Nations Auditions, run by Paul Pearson, is using the name of the television show and has been soliciting $150 audition fees and promising a $50,000 top prize.

Stewart Phillip, Grand Chief Union of BC Indian Chiefs, had harsh words for Pearson’s contest.

“I think it’s very disgusting, very unethical, very sleazy,” Phillip said.Comment:  For more on talent shows, see Sagkeengs Finest Wins Canada's Got Talent.