What is it like to be a First Nations Chief?

Podcast 148 with Chief Willie Sellars

Delve deeper into the layered experiences of Chief Willie Sellars, a transformative figurehead of the Williams Lake First Nation.

His voice carries the wisdom of ancestral heritage and a modern vision, symbolizing a bridge between past traditions and forward-thinking leadership.

Chief Sellars navigates the complex journey of reconciliation with poise, spotlighting the historical and ongoing significance of the St. Joseph's Mission residential school site to Indigenous communities.

He elucidates the painstaking investigative work undertaken, a testament to the profound dedication to justice and healing for survivors and descendants.

This undertaking reflects a broader commitment to integrating Indigenous history into educational narratives, ensuring that the truths of the past inform the teachings of the future.

His narrative is further textured by his vibrant engagement with cultural expressions, from powwows to ceremonial rites. These traditions serve as an anchor for the community's identity, highlighting the intergenerational transmission of pride and the resurgence of Indigenous languages and customs under his stewardship.

Through Chief Sellars' story, we gain insight into the heart of leadership that is as much about community enrichment as it is about personal responsibility to uphold the legacy of his ancestors while forging a resilient path forward.

It is always an honour to speak with Chief Sellars and gain insights on how rural First Nation communities can find ways to thrive economically while also holding up their traditions and cultural values.

You can listen to the full interview with Chief Willie Sellars on Apple Podcasts, YouTube and Spotify.