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Email Nicole
Nicole Johnny is the Operations Manager for the Citxw Nlaka'pamux Assembly, she is from Merritt and her husband and five children are part of Lytton First Nation. Nicole brings administrative experience in Office Management, Human Resources, and Accounting. She assists in the development and implementation of organization policies and procedures; supports and oversees the administration of HR policies; programs and practices within the organization; receivables, monthly billing, payroll and quarterly financial reporting.
Nicole's dedication to community development and engagement helps create positive change and impact within the eight CNA communities and related organizations. She especially enjoys engaging in high level team collaboration, demonstrating task reliability, communicating constructively and motivating and supporting team direction. Her goal is to provide an innovative approach in engaging and expanding overall program development and direction. NicoIe cherishes the nłeʔképmx territory, and strives to create a strong and successful environment for her children and their children’s children.
EMAIL TAYLOR
Taylor was born and raised in the beautiful Nicola Valley. She is a member of the Coldwater Indian Band. She lived off reserve in Merritt. She is grateful for her mom Christina Nicholls, Two brothers Cameron and Graycin Nicholls and her younger sister Sienna Reimer.
Taylor started as a Community Engagement Specialist and has moved into the role of Sr. Executive Assistant. She is very excited to continue to work with everyone in the participating bands. Taylor hopes she can help serve everyone with great pride and respect and is excited for all the new adventures with Citxw Nlaka’pamux Assembly.
Taylor loves to surround herself around her family and friends as much as possible. She loves to play many different sports throughout the year. In the warm summers she loves to go camping and be outside as much as possible. When it is cooler outside, she likes to be inside staying warm.
EMAIL LINDA
We are excited to introduce Linda Davidson, who has been a part of our Employment and Training department for one year now. Linda has been a long-time resident of the Nicola Valley, originally from the Kamloops area. She is a mother of three children, two daughters, and one son. Her son is a young member of the Siska Indian Band, giving her a strong personal connection to the community.
During her time with us, Linda has shown an unwavering dedication to helping our members. She started her journey with us as an Administration Assistant and worked diligently to advance her career within the organization. Now, she holds the position of Manager, which is a testament to her hard work, perseverance, and commitment to our members. Linda's passion for helping others and her strong personal ties to the community make her an invaluable member of our team. She is always looking for ways to improve the lives of our members and is committed to providing them with the support they need. We are proud to have Linda as a part of our team and are confident that she will continue to excel in her role as Manager.
EMAIL STACEY
Stacey grew up in Trail in the West Kootenays but moved to the beautiful Nicola Valley 15 years ago. She raised 3 boys, Josiah, Noah, and Elijah, and is so proud of the incredible young men that they have become. She and her husband Jud recently became empty nesters and now enjoy spending their time adventuring around this beautiful part of BC with their dog, Luna, finding all the beauty that this valley offers.
Stacey worked for the school district for the past several years as an Education Assistant and has a deep appreciation for the Nlaka’pamux culture and language that she was immersed in at a local school. She is excited to join the team at Citxw Nlaka’pamux Assembly as the new Executive Assistant and learn even more about the teachings and culture of the Nlaka’pamux nation.
EMAIL TANYA
My family is St’uxwtews from Bonaparte, I was born and raised in the Lower Mainland and moved around most of my life until I settled in Merritt 7 years ago to live with my family. I have two children, Jacob and Isabel. Izzy and I love growing our own food and DIY projects. I recently learned how to fish and I love it. I was not raised with any knowledge or traditions of my First Nations heritage. I have taken this year to take in as much information as I can. My main interests this year are natural healing from the land and learning traditions. Since I started with CNA, I have been to my first Pow Wow and started learning nłeʔkepmxcín language, and traditions. I love hearing the stories people tell me when they come in and making sure people feel welcome.
EMAIL Virginia
heńłeʔ nskʷest kʷíslexpetkʷu, tuł nc'łetkʷu kn, ł nskíxzeʔ wikpel’ks, ł nkz̓e ćusinek.
Hello, my name is Virginia Aspinall, I am a Coldwater Indian Band member, my mother is Alana Aspinall, my grandmother is Martha Aspinall. I am an nłeʔképmx woman, I was born in Vancouver but raised in the Nicola Valley. I grew up off reserve but have been learning a lot from my yeyeʔ. After graduating Merritt Secondary I’ve spent the last decade gaining various work experience, making new connections to my community and volunteering in several different programs. I started with the Citxw Nlaka’pamux Assembly in September of 2021 in the Employment and Training Department. Then in January of 2022 I stepped into the role of Program Coordinator. The Programs department had taken a brief pause during the Coronavirus period, it has been a welcome challenge to navigate how we interact with each other post covid-19. Since then our team has grown and I am honoured to be leading the department in bringing people together, learning new things and finding support in community. My two daughters born to me are both nłeʔképmx, my spouse and son are both Metis, together we are a chaotic, fun loving, family of five. We love to explore the outdoors, gathering firewood, harvesting medicines, and taking care of our animals.
Our goal within the Programs Department is to support wholistic wellbeing, taking care of mind, body, and spirit. We have a large focus on food security and are continuously looking for ways to facilitate traditional food sovereignty. Sustainable and responsible harvesting along with proper food preservation anchors us to this important work.
See you at the next CNA event!
wʔéxʷ weʔ ƛ̓uʔ - Take care
EMAIL SHANNON
Weyt-kp Xwexweytep
Shannon Boyce is Secwépemc from Simpcw First Nation in Barriere, BC. She is a proud parent of four adult children and grandparent of three grandchildren; Aspen, Charles and Kylen. Her parents are Charles Eustache and Magdalene Boyce (George Christopher). Grandparents on her father’s side are Angus Eustache and Helen Eustache (William Pete) and on her mother’s side, Eileen Boyce (Robert Boyce) and Archie Pete.
Growing up and spending a lot of time with her grandparents was one of the most memorable periods of her life. Listening to the stories of their lives and being taught by their experiences has helped her grow into the person she is today.
She has a background in the Secwépemc language and has knowledge of traditional practices. Since she was 12 years old, she travelled to powwows and went to stick games (lahel). She since then brought her youngest son up in those ways and teachings.
She has worked in catering and in the food industry for many years. She also has an event planning background and has experience working with different First Nations communities. She is excited to see where this new path in life takes her.
EMAIL JONAH
Umbá wastich Macaže ne thuúbá-wágeeá
Hello my traditional name is Black Eagle given to me by my grandparents Grace and David Daniels. My English name is Jonah Daniels. Late Terry Spahan (my grandpa) and I would attend many sweats, sundances, and many ceremonies; I grew up with my late elders' cultural teachings and "old ways" as they called it. They taught me everything from cultural medicines/herbal medicines, such as edible berries/mushrooms/roots etc. My grandmother Irene Bob made sure to teach me all my relations and family tree, although there are many!
I am very diverse in traditional hunting/fishing and tracking, I have spent countless hours out on the traditional lands of our people and know a range of our boarders. I'm very fond of my cultural teaching as many of the old ways have been passed down & entrusted to me! I look forward to representing who I am and what I stand for, and passing my knowledge down to the younger generations or to anyone willing to learn our people's history & knowledge. I come from 4 generations of cowboys and cheifs, so you can be assured my work ethic is hard working. My parents are Loretta and David Jr Daniels they have taught me both sides of the family's ways and whether it was from learning how to train horses or look after cows. Or building sweats/sundances or crafting traditional ceremony pipes my parents taught me and made me who I am today! Although more fluent in the old Sioux language, I'm also on my way to learning my Thompson Salish side.
EMAIL Arwinaya
hén̓łeʔ kp , my name is Arwinaya Johnny, my nickname given to me by my great grandfather is Winnie. I am a member of the Nłeʔkepmx Nation from the Lytton Indian Band. I am one of five children, my parents are Nicole and Reuben Johnny, my grandparents are Barry Jackson, Tamara Hartwig, Kimberly Bent and Jacob Adams. Growing up in the community I have developed a strong love of the land and culture. Throughout my youth, I have enjoyed playing hockey, hunting, fishing, family and community events. I was taught a strong work ethic from my parents and it has served to create in myself someone who believes in doing a job well from start to finish. In the last couple years I have had the honor to work with numerous local Indigenous organizations, through these opportunities a strong desire to give back to community has formed. I hope to build a strong connection with community and staff at the Citxw Nlaka’pamux Assembly, as well grow my strength and knowledge so that one day I can become a leader in this nation, so that I may inspire other young adults to do the same.
Email madelynn
heńłeʔ kʷ nskʷest Madelynn Albert tuł he kukspəli kn, he nskíxzeʔ Annette Albert, ł nsqáczeʔ Joe Thomas. ł nkz̓éʔ Cookie Jules ʔeł ł nspápzeʔ Ross AlbertNskíken ʔe skʷéstc Vince McDonaldNscméyt ʔe Aiyanna, Matoska ʔeł Nahpeyo
Hello, my name is Madelynn Albert, I am from Cook’s Ferry, My mother is Annette Albert, and my father was Joe Thomas. My grandmother is Cookie Jules and my grandfather is Ross Albert. My partner's name is Vince McDonald and my children are Aiyanna, Matoska, and Nahpeyo. I am a Secwépemc/ Nłeʔképmx woman, born in the secwépemcùĺecw. I spent my younger years living and traveling in the secwépemc territory, where I was blessed to learn to harvest from the land, travel to traditional gatherings and play stick games (lahal). In 2004, I was able to move into the nłeʔkepmx territory and graduate from Ashcroft Secondary. I have since graduated from NVIT and have been happily living in the Nicola Valley since 2018.
I am proud to be living and working within my community, as this has always been a goal of mine. I started with Citxw Nlak’pamux Assembly in June of 2020 and throughout my time I have learned effective capacity strengthening strategies that are built from community-based approaches that honor the knowledge and expertise within our communities. I have been developing my administrative skills over the past few years, demonstrated by supporting various levels of management over a diversity of settings, constructive communication, complex problem-solving, and information management. I believe these give me the building blocks to make a meaningful impact, working towards language revitalization and building nłeʔkepmx identity.
My goal within the nłeʔkepmxcin Department is to contribute to our communities, to share our ancestor's knowledge and important teachings, and to build resources to be available for our children and their future generations.
kʷukʷscémxʷ
EMAIL SUZANNE
Suzanne is a member of the Nooaitch Indian Band. Her grandparents were the late Minnie Martin and Matthew Washington. Her mother is Amelia Washington, and her father was Isamu Ito. She has spent most of her life off reserve in the Chilcotin until she was a teen and then working in the Fraser Valley for the last 20 years. She graduated from NVIT with a Bachelor of Social Work Degree and has worked in child and family service agencies due to her passion to help and support First Nations families. Looking for a new career that supports and strengthens nłeʔkepmx language, culture, and connection the language support and transcriber position is a perfect fit. Suzanne is excited to learn a deeper understanding of her language and to promote and encourage others to learn as well. Suzanne believes that cultural and language connections create strong bonds to the land and each other. She loves harvesting berries, mushrooms, and various medicines. She keeps herself strong with the practice of spirit bathing and living in the here and now. As a language support and transcriber, Suzanne hopes to work as part of the language team in engaging community members to learn their language in fun and unique ways. Suzanne looks forward to being a part of the CNA community and getting to know her fellow co-workers and community members from the eight participating Bands. húm̓eł cúkʷ kʷukʷscémxʷ
EMAIL ALICIA
Hén̓łeʔ nskʷést Alicia Ned tuł he Xaxlip Fountain Indian Band. I was raised in Merritt B.C by my single mother alongside my two older siblings. My passion lies in learning about the culture and language, and I am driven to not only thrive, but also to give back to my community. In fact, my ultimate goal is to become fluent in the Nalka’pamux language so that I can share my knowledge with others in the future. I am looking forward to begin this new journey with Citwx Nlaka’pamux Assembly, also engaging and getting to know the eight participating bands.
EMAIL KELI
I am from Nooaitch Reserve. My parents are the late Lorraine Washington and Isamu Ito. I have lived my entire life off reserve. I moved back to Merritt in 1996 with my two daughters. I reconnected with my Mother and my family. My auntie Amelia Washington taught me all about my cultural heritage, as I had been raised in a non-Indigenous home. Through my auntie I learned pride in being Indigenous.
My strong desire to learn my culture and my language led me to apply for the nłeʔkepmxcín Resource Support position. I am excited to join the language team to help show the importance of preserving, speaking, andteaching our language to the members of our eight participating bands. Through language and culture I feel we show that we are still here we are a strong community!
EMAIL TERESA
Hello, my name is Teresa Thomas, I am a Secwépemc/ nłeʔképmx woman from Shuswap Band, born in tḱemlúps te secwépemc, raised in Cooks Ferry.
My mother is Annette Albert, and my father is the late Joe Thomas. My grandparents on my mother’s side are Marie Anderson and Ross Albert (Cooks Ferry). As well as the late Mary Ann John. Cookie Jules (Delores George of Coldwater) and the late Joe Jules (Simpcw First Nation).
My Grandparents on my father’s side are the late Shirley Ann (Thomas) Joseph (Little Shuswap) and Charles Christopher Aloysius Joseph Sr. (kenpesq’et - Shuswap band)
I spent my youth traveling in various territories, where I was blessed to attend traditional gatherings, play stick games, dancing at pow wows, and attending youth gatherings. Through this I have developed a strong love for our people, the land, and the desire to give back as much to our communities as I can.
I have over 10 years of various volunteer experience, making new connections to my communities and working in several different youth leadership programs. Moving forward, I hope to build a strong foundation of knowledge in our traditions, so they be accurately passed to the next generation. I am excited to be in a position that lets me exercise both my artistic talents and cultural passions.
EMAIL CHEYaNNE
hen̓łeʔ nskʷest Cheyanne Shackelly. tuł he Nwéyc kn. Hello, my name is Cheyanne Shackelly. I am from Nooaitch Indian Band. My Mother is Terrilynn Ball. My maternal grandparents are Valerie Heron, and late Joesph Newborn. My Father is Neil Shackelly. My late paternal grandparents are Daphne Shackelly and Michael Shackelly. I was born in Calgary, Alberta, and raised in Nooaitch. I am Cree and Nłeʔképmx. I’m the oldest of six siblings.
Since 2018, I’ve been doing a lot of Archaeology and Cultural Monitoring work. Being in that workplace, I’ve come to learn the importance of protecting and preserving as much of our culture as possible. I applied for the Nłeʔkepmxcín Archivist position because I’ve always wanted to learn more about my language and culture. I think it’s important to learn and preserve as much as we can. Our elders and knowledge keepers aren’t going to be around forever. We need to step up and learn as much as we can from them.
On my days off, you’ll most likely see me looking down at the ground. I’m almost always on the hunt for some cool looking rocks. I’ve always loved rocks ever since I was a kid. I enjoy finding heart-shaped rocks, because they remind me of my Grandma Shackelly.
This is my first office job and I’m excited to get to know everyone and learn more about the language. Kʷukʷscémxʷ (Thank you) for giving me the opportunity. I look forward to meeting and working alongside all eight participating communities!
EMAIL MARCY
ʔéx kʷn̓ Marcy is a member of the nłeʔkepmx community from the Lower Nicola Indian Band. Her parents are Lee McLeod (Aspen Grove) and the Late Phyllis Edwards (LNIB). Besides her Mom, Marcy recognizes her strongest influencers and role models in her life to be both of her Great Grandmothers, the Late Elizabeth Edwards (LNIB), and the Late Delores McLeod (Aspen Grove).
In 2007, Marcy started working for her community (LNIB) where she gained experience in both the Administration Department as well as the Finance Department, she worked for LNIB for 14 years. Marcy is also currently working on obtaining her Certified Aboriginal Financial Manager’s designation through AFOA Canada. Apart from staying busy at work Marcy enjoys several hobbies which include reading, wire-wrapping crystals, crocheting, learning tarot, and creating junk journals, she is always looking for new and fun things to learn when it comes to being creative with art and crafts. As the Finance Manager, Marcy aims to expand on her knowledge and skills set while providing friendly and courteous services to the eight participating CNA Bands and the community in general. Marcy looks forward to being a part of the CNA community again and getting to know her fellow co-workers and community members from the eight participating Bands. húm̓eł cúkʷ kʷukʷscémxʷ
EMAIL JOANNE
Born and raised in Merritt, I am a 5th Generation on my Mother’s side (Thomson), my Fathers family came to the area in the 1940’s. I have raised 3 amazing children all of whom graduated at Merritt Secondary School and am proud to be a Grandmother to 6 wonderful grandchildren. Growing up in the beautiful Nicola Valley with my parents, 4 siblings and many relatives has been something that I have never taken for granted. It has been a blessing and privilege to grow up here and raise my children in my hometown. There’s no place like home!
I have many years of Administration experience that I bring with me to my job here at CNA. My past work experience is wide and vast, I have had the opportunity to work in different industries throughout my life so far. Much of my experience includes Office Administration, Employment Services, Community and Business Engagement, and assisting with Economic Development initiatives.
I have also volunteered with various organizations from being a Cub Scout Leader to Emergency Support Services and the Food Bank just to name a few.
I pride myself on having a good rapport with my community and co-workers. I am excited and grateful for this opportunity to work in the finance department here at Citxw Nlaka’pamux Assembly. I look forward to expanding and learning more about all aspects of the culture and the nłeʔképmx organization.
Bree Lepine Woodwardclose BRee Lepine Woodward People and Talent Development Manager EMAIL BREE Bree Woodward, an nłeʔképmx woman, was born and raised in the beautiful Nicola Valley in Merritt, British Columbia. She is a proud Coldwater Band member and is thankful for her kz̓e - grandmother, Marty Aspinall, skíxzeʔ - mother, Alana Aspinall, and kíx - sister, Virginia Aspinall. Bree has worked in various departments such as Communications, Programs, and Human Resources, which has equipped her with skills to best serve the staff and members of the CNA. Bree appreciates the fulfilling experience of working closely with her nation and culture at the CNA. Bree eagerly looks forward to new adventures at the Citxw Nlaka’pamux Assembly and strives to serve all members of the eight participating bands with honor and respect. If you have any questions regarding employment opportunities or training with the CNA or K'en T'em, please do not hesitate to reach out to Bree via email. kʷukʷscémxʷ Makenna Shuterclose makenna shuter People and Talent Clerk Email Makenna Biography coming soon!
Bree Woodward, an nłeʔképmx woman, was born and raised in the beautiful Nicola Valley in Merritt, British Columbia. She is a proud Coldwater Band member and is thankful for her kz̓e - grandmother, Marty Aspinall, skíxzeʔ - mother, Alana Aspinall, and kíx - sister, Virginia Aspinall. Bree has worked in various departments such as Communications, Programs, and Human Resources, which has equipped her with skills to best serve the staff and members of the CNA. Bree appreciates the fulfilling experience of working closely with her nation and culture at the CNA. Bree eagerly looks forward to new adventures at the Citxw Nlaka’pamux Assembly and strives to serve all members of the eight participating bands with honor and respect. If you have any questions regarding employment opportunities or training with the CNA or K'en T'em, please do not hesitate to reach out to Bree via email.
Email Makenna
Biography coming soon!
Natasha Nemeth close NATASHA NEMETH Employment and Training Coordinator EMAIL NATASHA Born and raised in Merritt, Natasha considers herself very fortunate call such a gorgeous valley home. She enjoys camping with her family and being close to nature. She is ecstatic to be the new Employment and Training Administration Assistant, and is passionate about helping others find success in their careers as well. In her downtime, Natasha enjoys all forms of textile crafts from crochet to needlepoint, and she loves spending time with her family whenever possible. Gerome Garciaclose gerome garcia Employment and Training Coordinator Email Gerome Hello, my name is Gerome Garcia and I am from Coldwater. I am half Nlaka’pamux and Syilx as my Dad came from Upper Nicola . I am married to my beautiful wife Wendy, and we have 4 children together, 2 of our boys are in high school and our youngest 2 are in daycare. In my spare time I enjoy spending time on the land and gathering medicines and food, the way our ancestors did. I also share my knowledge with our children. When we’re not out on the land I enjoy gardening and looking after our 5 chickens. I am looking forward to working at the CNA and helping people look for work and training. Jocelyn Jacoeclose Jocelyn Jacoe Employment and Training Administration Assistant EMAIL Jocelyn Jocelyn Jacoe is a long time resident of Merritt, she has stepped into a new role as the employment and training File Clerk. We are excited to have Jocelyn as part of the team as she brings a great amount of experience to the table. You can email Jocelyn by clicking the link above. kʷukʷstéyp (kwukw-shteyp) - thank you from all of us!
EMAIL NATASHA
Born and raised in Merritt, Natasha considers herself very fortunate call such a gorgeous valley home. She enjoys camping with her family and being close to nature. She is ecstatic to be the new Employment and Training Administration Assistant, and is passionate about helping others find success in their careers as well. In her downtime, Natasha enjoys all forms of textile crafts from crochet to needlepoint, and she loves spending time with her family whenever possible.
Email Gerome
Hello, my name is Gerome Garcia and I am from Coldwater. I am half Nlaka’pamux and Syilx as my Dad came from Upper Nicola . I am married to my beautiful wife Wendy, and we have 4 children together, 2 of our boys are in high school and our youngest 2 are in daycare.
In my spare time I enjoy spending time on the land and gathering medicines and food, the way our ancestors did. I also share my knowledge with our children. When we’re not out on the land I enjoy gardening and looking after our 5 chickens.
I am looking forward to working at the CNA and helping people look for work and training.
EMAIL Jocelyn
Jocelyn Jacoe is a long time resident of Merritt, she has stepped into a new role as the employment and training File Clerk. We are excited to have Jocelyn as part of the team as she brings a great amount of experience to the table.
You can email Jocelyn by clicking the link above.
kʷukʷstéyp (kwukw-shteyp) - thank you from all of us!
EMAIL SARAH
Originally from Quebec, Kanienʼkehá꞉ka (Mohawk) territory, Sarah has been living in the Nicola Valley for eight years. She owns and operates Coquihalla Apiaries with her husband. Sarah enjoys honey farming not only because she and her family eat copious amounts of honey, but it brings her closer to and makes her a better steward of the land.
Sarah has a degree in Conservation of Natural Resources and Management from the University of British Columbia (UBC). She has worked for the Cascades Natural Resource District in Merritt. She has also been a wildlife technician for mining exploration and researcher in the far north.Sarah has a Master’s of Science, also from UBC where she studied how the changing environment impacts culturally important berry species in Northern climates. She believes that to develop sound decisions on the land, Indigenous knowledge and western science must be woven with care and in the right way according to the needs of communities involved. She is excited to be joining the Territorial Stewardship Team and to support the eight participating Bands in any way she can. In her personal time, Sarah is a co-lead for the NatureKids BC club for the Nicola Valley chapter. When she’s not volunteering or out with the bees, you can find her outside with her partner, two young kids and two border collies.
EMAIL ERICA
Erica spent most of her childhood in Merritt and now lives in Kamloops. She attended school at the University of Ottawa and graduated in 2022 with a BSc. in Biology with a minor in Chemistry in the French Immersion stream.
Erica has always had a strong passion for conservation and the environment. She spends most of her free time outdoors and with nature. Erica loves animals and currently has two dogs and a cat. She values indigenous teachings and knowledge and hopes to enrich her understanding of indigenous culture. As a new technical coordinator with the CNA, Erica is excited to use her science background to support the eight participating bands in reconciliation and protection of the land.
EMAIL Natalie
Natalie grew up in Merritt, leaving for a brief period of time to complete her BSc. in Environmental Sciences at Trinity Western University. Natalie grew up spending most of her time outdoors exploring British Columbia which grew into a strong passion for the environment and learning about diverse ways to care for the land. She hopes to strengthen her passion of the land through indigenous teachings and knowledge. Natalie is excited to be a technical coordinator at the CNA where western science and Indigenous knowledge can be brought together to mitigate the effects of HVC, support the eight Participating Bands, and bring people together.
Email Rachel
Rachel spent most of her childhood in Kelowna exploring the diverse ecology of the Okanagan out her backdoor on horseback and then headed off to work and study in several parts of Canada including Waterloo, Edmonton and Lethbridge before feeling drawn to be closer to home and landing in Merritt in 2017. She completed her Bachelor of Environmental and Conservation Sciences with a Major in Land Reclamation in 2016 at The University of Alberta and finished her Masters of Science in 2021 at Thompson Rivers University which looked at integrating weed control techniques in rangelands. She is passionate about protecting native species and educating children about the unique grasslands that surround us.
She keeps busy outside of work with her small farm in Lower Nicola where she runs petting zoo events and co-leads the Merritt Nature Kids Club. When she has a free weekend you can find her camping in the Valley with her husband and two energetic daughters. Rachel is grateful to be apart of the CNA team to help protect the area she now calls home.
EMAIL DAVID
Currently employed part time as Senior Manager Strategic Partnerships with the Invasive Species Council of BC. David Walkem was a Councillor of the Cooks Ferry Indian Band from 2018 – 2022 and served as Chief from 1990 to 2018. He has an MBA (1984) from University of Western Ontario and an BScForestry (1980) from UBC. Prior to being elected as Chief he worked for the federal government in native economic development, with the TD Bank as an assistant Branch Manager, and for the BC Ministry of Forests in Forest Research.Currently he is on the corporate Boards of Esh-kn-am Investments Joint Venture, Swl’eps Limited Partnership, Stuwix Resources Joint Venture, and the Community of Interest Panel for the Mining Association of Canada. He is a Registered Professional Forester (now Retired), the first registered Status Indian in BC to achieve that designation. In 2001 he was the recipient of the ‘Forester of the Year’ award from the Association of BC Professional Foresters, and in 2007 he received an award from the National Aboriginal Achievement Awards Foundation for his achievements in the Environment and Forestry. He lives in Spences Bridge, BC and is a proud Father, Grandfather and Great-Grandfather.
For community volunteer Boards he currently serves as Secretary on the First United Community Church Ministry Society in the downtown east side of Vancouver, and on the Canadian Council on Invasive Species. He served as President and Treasurer on the Board of the Native Education Centre in Vancouver from 1990 – 2007. He was a founding Director and Co-Chair of the Stl’atl’imx / Nlaka’pamux Legal Services Society providing legal aid to aboriginal communities in the Lytton and Lillooet areas, until it was closed.
EMAIL XNI
We are happy to announce that Xni Grismer has transitioned into the role of Community Engagement Specialist within the Territorial Stewardship Department (TSD). Xni will ensure members are engaged on upcoming TSD meetings and initiatives. Please feel free to reach out to Xni if you have any questions or would like to become better informed.
Xni is a Coldwater band member, born and raised in Merritt. Her parents are Jaime Grismer (LNIB) Grandmothers Sharon McIvor, the late Teressa Nahanee, and her Grandfather the late Terry Grismer. Jamie Voght (Coldwater) Grandmother Roseane Spahan, Grandfather Tim Voght.
Xni graduated from MSS and continued her education at NVIT and TRU. She has done a lot of volunteer work with different organizations and political parties over the years.
Xni’s interests include fishing, hunting, gathering, and different sports including hockey, softball, lacrosse, rugby, and more. She also loves animals and has a dog and a cat that love to go on adventures together.
EMAIL KYLA
Kyla is a Cooks Ferry band member through her father Darin Minnabarriet and Grandpa Victor Minnabarriet. She is from Ashcroft, but has spent the last several years living in Kamloops where she completed her BSc. in Natural Resources Science at Thompson Rivers University.
Growing up, Kyla spent time on the land with her family; camping, hunting, collecting plants, and hiking. She is eager to use what she learned in school and from family to support Nlaka'pamux communities and the land through her work in the Territorial Stewardship Department.
EMAIL Brenda
I’m a member of the Cook’s Ferry Indian Band. I have my Bachelor of Plant Science degree (1993) and my Master of Science degree in Integrated Studies in Land and Food Systems (2023) both through the University of British Columbia (UBC) Vancouver campus. I focused my master’s degree on researching the Nlaka’pamux use of mule deer, white-tailed deer, moose, elk, sockeye salmon, chinook salmon, and pink salmon. I have also been a registered Professional Agrologist for over 25 years.
I have spent most of my adult life working for First Nations communities in BC. Early in my career I worked for Western Indian Agriculture Corporation supporting First Nation communities on Vancouver Island, in the Fraser Valley, the Southern Interior, the Kootenays and the Cariboo region. After getting my Bachelor’s degree I worked for the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries, and Food supporting 40 of the Bands with an integrated weed control program. For almost 19 years I worked for a number of the Nlaka’pamux Bands, first at Nicola Tribal Association in the Tmixw Research Department, then at Esh-kn-am’s Cultural Resources Management Services Department. While working on my master’s degree I began working as the Lands Coordinator at Cook’ Ferry Indian Band. I’m now working as the Food Sovereignty Advisor three days a week for the eight Bands of CNA. I hope to utilize the information that the Nlaka’pamux people shared with me for my master’s degree to help the people get more access to more mule deer, white-tailed deer, moose, and elk meat where possible through my job at CNA.
EMAIL ARIEL
Ariel is a strong and proud nłeʔképmx woman from the Siska Indian Band. She resides on the Coldwater Indian Band Reserve with her husband, Dustin Voght, and sons, Daxton and Cayden. Her parents are Crystal and Les Swayze; maternal grandparents are Violet Austin and the late Smith Austin; and her paternal grandparents were Gail Wray and George Swayze Sr. Ariel graduated from the University of the Fraser Valley with a Bachelor of Arts, majoring in Geography, in 2014. She brings boots-on-the-ground experience from being an Environmental Technician with K’en T’em (KMC) for contracted work at Highland Valley Copper (HVC) since June 2014 (July 2016 with KMC). Her experience in the field includes surface water sampling, groundwater sampling, aquatics monitoring, lake monitoring, and various field data collection as requested. More recently, Ariel was the Cultural Heritage Supervisor for KMC, where she coordinated field staff from STC, ECRMS and KMC for the Cultural Heritage work being done at HVC. Ariel is ready to share her passion for protecting the land, for her children, grandchildren and all future generations. A late elder told her she was a tmíxʷ səsekʷule, and she is committed to being the Earth Angel he saw in her.
EMAIL Crystal
EMAIL Meghan
Meghan is from Kamloops, BC, but spent a lot of her time throughout Savona and Skeetchestn growing up. Her Dad and family grew up on a ranch in Deadman’s Creek. Exploring these beautiful landscapes really developed a deep passion for grassland landscapes and wildlife, which led her to pursue an undergraduate degree with a Bachelor of Natural Resource Science from Thompson Rivers University.
Throughout her undergrad, she worked as a wildlife technician at Skeetchestn Natural Resources Corporation, where she worked with various projects on wildlife and habitat management including grasslands and species at risk, and culturally significant plants. Through this work she wrote her undergraduate research paper on “Plant Community Response Postfire and it's influence on California Bighorn Sheep Forage in Skeetchestn Territory.”
Meghan is excited to help provide support to the eight Participating Bands, provide support in the maintenance of the relationship between CNA and the Cultural Heritage Program at HVC and help protect cultural heritage resources.
EMAIL MARIUS
EMAIL COMMUNICATIONS
Marius Auer has spent most of his life in Merritt, B.C, originally moving with his family from Germany in 2008. Marius deeply values his family, his connection to the community, and the opportunity to share the many positive and vital initiatives being undertaken by Citxw Nlaka’pamux Assembly to strengthen Nlaka’pamux rights, title, values, and interests.
Marius was recently employed as Editor of The Merritt Herald. As someone who deeply values the power of storytelling, Marius is excited to spread the word about CNA by connecting with members and expanding his understanding of nłeʔképmxcin.
Marius, his fiancée Madison and daughter Evelyn live in Merritt and enjoy spending time outdoors together by hiking, swimming, and enjoying everything this beautiful region has to offer.
Marius is a believer of the idea that collaboration is the key to success, and his door is always open.
EMAIL MORNINGSTAR
MorningStar is nłeʔképmx from the Nooaitch Indian Band. Her parents are Lani MacKenzie and Joe Meldrum. Her maternal grandparents are Amelia Washington and Robin MacKenzie, and her paternal grandparents are the late Rita Anthony and Peter Anthony. In MorningStar’s down time she enjoys reading, crocheting, and spending time with her family and pets. MorningStar is a proud nłeʔképmx woman and is proud to be working as a Communications Assistant for the Citxw Nlaka’pamux Assembly. She is looking forward to the opportunities and growth.
Brandi is a proud nłeʔképmx woman from the Coldwater Indian Band. She is the daughter to Suzette and Kevin O’Flynn and the granddaughter to Martha Aspinall and the late Roy Aspinall. She settled down in Merritt 14 years ago with her family and is a mother to two boys and a step-mother to another. She spent nine years working for the Lower Nicola Indian Band in various roles, mainly as the Lands Manager, gaining extensive knowledge in First Nations Land Management, project management, office administration, and communications including community engagement, event planning and promotion, and digital content creation. In her free time, she enjoys watching her boys play hockey at the arena.
Brandi is eager to begin her role as the Communications Assistant for the Citxw Nlaka’pamux Assembly. She is enthusiastic about learning more of the nłeʔképmx culture, language, and traditions and is excited about the opportunity to expand her knowledge in these areas.
EMAIL Kayla
Kayla Phillips is the new Nooaitch Community Engagement Coordinator here at CNA! Kayla will ensure Nooaitch community members are aware and informed on the services that CNA offers as well as promoting those same services at various cultural events that Nooaitch will be involved in. If you see Kayla in the community, please don’t be shy, say hello or ask about any of the services offered or events that CNA will be hosting.
Kayla Phillips (Washington) is Nle?kepmx/Tsilhqot’in and is a member from Nooaitch Indian Band. Her father is late Richard who was Nle?kepmx and was from Nooaitch. Her mother is Agatha who is Tsilhqot’in from Tl’etinqox. Her paternal grandparents are late Jimmy Fountain and Rose Fountain. Her maternal grandparents are late Leonard Billy and late Edna Billy. Kayla is a wife and mother to three kids. Graduated from MSS and then went to Old’s College and received a Fashion Apparel Technology diploma. She moved back to Nooaitch to raise her daughters until they were able to go to school. She went back to school to get her Business Administration diploma from NVIT. Upon completing her studies, she worked as an intern up at Highland Valley Copper for the Site Engineering and the 2040 Environmental team for a year and four months. Kayla is an artist, who can sew, loves to bead, and pick huckleberries. Kayla’s goal as Community Engagement Coordinator is to build a relationship within the Nooaitch community to help support CNA programs/Services while also looking for gaps.
If you have any questions, please feel free to reach out at any time. Nooaitch Members please add the Nooaitch Community Engagement Coordinator as a friend to get notifications from the CNA Nooaitch Community Engagement Facebook Account
EMAIL Fabian
Fabian Oppenheim is the new Shackan Community Engagement Coordinator here at CNA! Fabian will ensure Shackan community members are aware and informed on the services that CNA offers as well as promoting those same services at various cultural events that Shackan will be involved in. If you see Fabian in the community, please don’t be shy, say hello or ask about any of the services offered or events that CNA will be hosting. Fabian is the grandson of Yvonne Joe and son of Travais Oppenheim. He was originally born in Albuquerque, New Mexico. His family moved around a bit in Fabian’s teenage years as his father was in the U.S. Navy until they eventually made their way up to Merritt in 2013 when his father left the U.S. Navy. Fabian attended NVIT in 2014 as part of the first Plumbing and Pipefitting Trades Foundations course, the Trades Building had just opened on campus and successfully completed the program to achieve his certificate. In 2016 Fabian moved back to Albuquerque, New Mexico to attend college and resided there until July of 2022 when he finally made my way back to the community to set roots down for his family. Hobbies Fabian include reading, writing, playing guitar, and the occasional gaming session when he has some downtime.
If you have any questions, please feel free to reach out at any time. Shackan Members please add the Shackan Community Engagement Coordinator as a friend to get notifications from the CNA Shackan Community Engagement Facebook Account
Fabian hopes to see you in community at the next CNA event! kʷukʷscémxʷ
EMAIL HOLLY
ʔéxkʷn̓,
My goals for this position are to provide our communities with as many opportunities as possible to either expand on an individual or community level, to learn more tradition/language/culture, and grow both professionally and personally. I am excited to bridge the gap between our communities and the CNA office. I look forward to meeting with one another and am thankful for this opportunity.
If you have any questions, please feel free to reach out at any time. Nicomen and Siska Members, please add the Nicomen/Siska Community Engagement Coordinator as a friend on Facebook to get notifications from the CNA Nicomen/Siska Community Engagement Facebook Account.
Email Jerome
Henle, Nskwest Jerome Smith. I was born in Merritt, BC. My mother is Carol Smith (Wilson) from Coldwater, my father is Roger Bob (Vi) also from Coldwater. My maternal grandparents are Tillie Swakum from Shulus, and Sam McLeod from Douglas Lake. My paternal grandparents are Ada Bob (nee George) from Lytton, and Roy Larchelle from Lillooet Texas Creek. My late Dad Bernard Smith played a huge and important role in my life and would tell me how important it was to be proud to be First Nation and to come home to Merritt and know who my family is. Throughout the years I was fortunate enough, him bringing us home as often as he could, I got to know my great grandmother whom raised my mom in Coldwater, Lily August (Tillie’s mother) from Coldwater, as well as spend time with Uncle Willy August (Tillie’s brother) from Coldwater, during the summers where he would teach me and my brother to hunt and gather fire wood.
I graduated from high school at Stelly's Sr Secondary. I have a certificate from Camosun College as a First Nations Teacher Assistant. I attended the Institute of Indigenous Gov’t for a couple of years working towards an Associate's Degree.
I have a diverse background of employment in various aspects of construction and business administration. I like to think that I can do anything. I was a Timber Framer in Ontario for many years and worked with Nil/tu’o Child and Family Services for 5 years as the Protocol Director. I am well versed with hands on experience and can manage my way around the words in the office.
Although I grew up on Vancouver Island near Victoria, I have always come home to visit during special occasions, holidays, horse round ups, hunting and fishing. I have always wanted to move back home, which my family and I have moved back to Merritt in June 2022. The welcoming and support since we have been here has been tremendous and I look forward to working in the community to give back what I have received.
When I first arrived back in Merritt, I have been working for Coldwater Indian Band as the on-call housing maintenance. I have also been fortunate enough to do some work for Scw’exmx Child and Family Services, moving offices, teaching how to put-up Teepees to the staff. I have also been able to work with Conayt in harvesting Teepee poles and just recently painted their logo on to one of their Teepees.
I Pow Wow dance Men’s fancy, made my own regalia, and immerse myself in culture and traditions. I have many hobbies, including carving, painting, and beading. I am an avid soccer player. Grew up running, canoe pulling.
Having pride in being Nlaka’pamux I am always eager to learn and absorb as much as I can about the area. You will find me at most events, conferences, gatherings. I have even attended some of the Nlaka’pamux language lessons being offered at NVIT. I am learning how to harvest from the land as well. I look forward to sharing our experiences together so that we may all grow together in a healthy way.
email shbaach
y̓é tək síƛ̓q̓t - Good day!
I'd like to share a little about who I am. My traditional name is Shbaach, which is "Bear" in our nłeʔkepmxcín language. I carry both my grand-mother and great-grandmother names in my English given name - Amanda Theresa Joe. My parents are Fred Charlie and Cora Adams from Lytton First Nation/Nlaka'pamux Territory. I'm the eldest daughter of the four of us siblings. My husband is Jordan Joe from Shackan Indian Band/Nlaka'pamux. We have a four-legged (Dog) and his name is Zero.
I was born and raised in Lytton/Nlaka'pamux territory and have resided in the Nicola Valley since 2013.
I look forward to supporting our Nlaka'pamux Peoples as the new Cook's Ferry Community Engagement Coordinator.