4 Indigenous Chiefs Whose Voices You Need to Hear

Shaping Policy, Advocacy, and Community Wellness

1. Chief Derek Epp

Derek Epp is not just a father and husband; he's a multifaceted leader serving as the Chief of Tzeachten First Nation. His influence extends into various sectors as he sits on the Board of Directors for the Chilliwack Chamber of Commerce, serves as the Secretary-Treasurer for the Stó:lō Xwexwilmexw Executive, and holds a position on the First Nation Health Council. With a Diploma in Social Services specializing in First Nations studies, he brings an academic depth to his roles.

Being Vice President for Ts’elxwéyeqw Tribe Management Ltd and a descendant of the Wealick family, Epp encapsulates what it means to be a modern Indigenous leader. Balancing governance, healthcare, and business, his broad spectrum of involvement makes him an Indigenous voice you should be listening to.

2. Chief Willie Sellars

When it comes to redefining leadership, Willie Sellars stands tall as the Chief of the Williams Lake First Nation. At the youthful age of 23, he made history by becoming one of the youngest elected councillors in his community. Willie didn't stop at making history; he's been shaping it ever since. Elected as Chief in 2018 and re-elected for a second term, he has proven himself as a policy innovator by overseeing the negotiation of British Columbia's first government-to-government agreement on cannabis. This led to the creation of Sugar Cane Cannabis, the province's premier farm-gate cannabis facility.

But Willie Sellars is more than just a political leader; he's also an award-winning children's book author. His books, "Dipnetting with Dad" and "Hockey with Dad," delve into the intricacies of Indigenous culture and family, offering readers a glimpse into the richness of his heritage. His multifaceted accomplishments make him a standout figure worth paying attention to, whether you're interested in leadership, entrepreneurship, or the cultural richness of First Nations.

3. Chief David Jimmie

Meet David Jimmie, the dynamic Chief and CEO of Squiala First Nation in Chilliwack, BC. But his leadership extends far beyond Squiala; he's also the President of the Sto:lo Nation and the Ts’elxweyeqw Tribe, advocating for 17 communities in total. A seasoned diplomat, he has engaged with various levels of government, even co-chairing the National Chief's Committee on Fiscal Relations. This man doesn't just lead, he builds—literally. Through his construction company, DJC, he's developed hundreds of homes and apartment units, and he's currently working on a 330-unit townhome project.

David's leadership is as global as it is local. He once bought an around-the-world ticket that took him through 19 countries in a year, enriching his worldview and feeding his commitment to diversifying revenue streams for his communities. With a Master's Degree in Business Administration from Simon Fraser University and a license in Residential Building, David is uniquely positioned at the intersection of cultural preservation and economic innovation. This multifaceted leader is not just a strong advocate for education and culture; he's a living embodiment of it.

4. Chief Andrew Victor

Meet Andrew Victor, a man of many titles—Chief of Cheam First Nation, Pastor for the Chilliwack Native Pentecostal Church, and Council Member with the First Nations Health Council. But what truly stands out about him is his unique blend of spiritual and community leadership. Before becoming Chief, Andrew honed his governance skills as a Council Member for Cheam First Nation, laying the groundwork for the collaborative and effective leadership he demonstrates today.

Andrew's contributions extend beyond political leadership; they also encompass spiritual and health advocacy. As a pastor, he brings faith into community, nurturing spiritual wellbeing among his people. He's a council member with the First Nations Health Council, advocating for better healthcare outcomes for BC First Nations communities. Not to mention, he holds a Bachelor of Arts in Intercultural/Multicultural and Diversity Studies from Prairie College in Alberta, Canada. Whether it's in politics, faith, or health, Andrew Victor is a leader who fosters holistic community wellness.