Like many people, doubts had entered my mind as I pondered running for council.  I thought to myself, “who do I think I am?”.  Then I remembered my ancestors, and even though all the doubts crossed my mind, I knew I had to keep going.  I also think of the doubts as a strength.  It keeps me grounded and a humble member of the community.  I have dignity, integrity, and accountability when it comes to tough challenges, critics, and Elders.  I can do this and I know I can complete my tasks for a vision and an outcome.  I love my home and will work hard to be fearless, fierce, and authentic. A force for our people. 

My dream to represent my community and sit at the Colville Business Council table began as a Summer Youth Employee.  It’s synchronistic that I now manage the SYEP.  One of my first jobs was filtering emails for council.  Even then, I always thought, “when it’s my time…”  On March 15th, I woke up and thought, “Today’s my time.”  I had reflected if I was ready for this stage of my life, and I realized I am.  

My bachelor’s is from Gonzaga University in Public Relations, and a minor in Philosophy. Philosophy was my favorite. I was able to expand my horizon and knowledge about how others view life. I learned how it’s okay to question everything and how I can learn more about myself by doing so. 

In 2015 the Colville Business Council selected me as the Public Affairs Officer and I was able to put my public relations skills to practice. It was a dream job for me as a PR professional. I worked with some great leaders. Jim Boyd was our Chairman. I learned how honorable and humbling it must be to represent your district. Also, how you must treat everyone with dignity and respect. CBC is to create laws, policy and legislation. To protect sovereignty and assets for future generations. The CBC is a team of fourteen  and serving twelve distinct Tribes that faced unique atrocities. We have had so much adversity growing and healing from generational trauma. 

Just as my ancestors were, I see myself as a political diplomat, it’s in my DNA. I can get along with just about anyone. I will always be me, my authentic self and continue to lead my work with empathy and compassion. I understand it takes courage and bravery to put myself in the position I yearn for.  

Currently I’m the Youth Services Manager and it’s heart work. It’s more than a job. I serve as the board Chair for our non-profit kʷu cnxiʔ (we join in). Our vision is “Indigenous children are being raised in ancestral wisdom, knowledge, and love through language and culture resulting in flourishing mental health which increases educational outcomes, self-esteem, and socioeconomic success.” I’m an Executive Board member of Career Connect Washington where I serve students and young workers combining classroom learning and professional experience to be ready for college and careers.

 way̓ ńíńw̓iʔs łwiknstn