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for July 2025 Newsletter Submission: June 16, 2025 Please submit via Publisher, Word or Canva (with edit link)
‘Uy’ skweyul Quw’utsun Mustimuhw,
I want to start by acknowledging and extending my deepest condolences for the heartbreaking losses of young people that our families are grieving. I want to make sure that our community members know that you are not alone; there are supports available and they are included in the Ts’ewulhtun Health section of this newsletter. Please don’t suffer in silence.
Our annual Open House on May 21st was a wonderful success. The Si’em Lelum Gym was filled with our department staff and partners connecting with our people about programs, services, and initiatives that are happening for the benefit of our community. It was a pleasure to speak with so many community members throughout the day.
At the event, our Council was pleased to announce the Tribal Journeys Community Grant. This new grant is a way for our Council to support one selected Community Group with a financial contribution to participate and represent Cowichan Tribes at Tribal Journeys this summer. For the 2025 season, the deadline to apply is: Friday, June 13, 2025. Eligibility criteria and the application form are available on our website.
Good luck to all the applicants!
Here are some additional activities from May:
May 5th: Gone But Not Forgotten Walk/Run in honour and recognition of Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls (MMIWG).
May 20th: Cultural blessing of the Emergency Services Boat.
May 13-15: attended Vancouver Island Spring Caucus hosted by FNHA in Parksville for updates on important health issues.
May 28th: Island Elders Lunch.
May 29th: Cultural brush off for funeral workers who supported us during the pandemic.
Lastly, I look forward to celebrating our people, our resilience, and our Quw’utsun culture on National Indigenous Peoples’ Day, Saturday, June 21, 2025 at the Si’em Lelum Soccer Fields. See you there!
Huy tseep q’u, (Sulsulxumaat) Chief Cindy Daniels
Join
Comprehensive Community Planning Open House!
Drop in to share your ideas and priorities
Date: June 12, 2025
Time: 4:00pm - 8:00pm
Location: Si’em Lelum Dining Hall
Food and Door Prizes available Children Welcome!
Our plan will focus on:
Ecological
Sustainability
Culture and Language
Employment Support
Health and Wellbeing
Housing
Chief and Council Meetings - Report to the Community
DATE OF MEETING: APRIL 8, 2025
1. Agenda Item: Education Law Ratification Process Department: Quw’utsun Syuw’enst Lelum Decision Made: Council approved the education team to commence the Education Law Ratification Process.
2. Agenda Item: Upcoming Conferences for Chief and Council
• First Nation Low Carbon Transportation Forum –May 27/28: Chris Alphonse to attend
• UBCIC Chief’s Council Meeting – June 11-12: Jen Charlie to attend as Chief’s proxy and Terri Allen to attend as support
• AFN Annual General Assembly – July 15-17: Chris Alphonse, Terri Allen and Audrey George to attend
• BCAFN 22nd Annual General Meeting – September 24-26: Attendees yet to be confirmed
• First Nations Leading the Way Conference –October 7-9: Jen Charlie, Terri Allen and Audrey George to attend
Decision Made: Lulumexun staff reviewed the Path Forward document which is for the Feasibility Assessment for the Proposed Southern Straight of Georgia National Marine Conservation Area Reserve. Coucil supports the Path Forward for the feasibility assessment as presented
Decision Made: Chief and Council approved 3 land allotments. All names and details about the allotments will not be shared here but questions can be directed to the Lulumexun department. Questions about the allotment process can also be found on the Cowichan Tribes Website.
Decision Made: The Council approves and has two Councillors sign off on the On-Reserve Housing Loan Program (ORHLP) and CORRA Loan agreement, and that all of the Chief and Council provide signatures on the First Nations Government Resolution Regarding Banking package to update signors.
Decision Made: That Council approves the revised B.C.R. wording for the On-Reserve Housing Loan Program (ORHLP) to reflect a $700,000 per home flat allowance rather than variance rates based on the type of project (renovations vs. new build) which will supersede the previously approved B.C.R. #2025/2026-05.
Phone: (250) 748-3196
Text: (250) 732-3734
Email: membership@cowichantribes.com
Represent our Nation at Tribal Journeys
Announcing the Cowichan Tribes Tribal Journeys Community Grant
The Tribal Journey represents the values, traditions, and community spirit of Cowichan Tribes as a Nation. The new Cowichan Tribes Tribal Journeys Community Grant is a meaningful way for Chief and Council to support one selected Community Group with a financial contribution of $15,000 to participate and represent Cowichan Tribes at Tribal Journeys. This is a one-time financial support with no ongoing commitment by Cowichan Tribes.
For the 2025 season, the deadline to apply is: Friday, June 13, 2025 at 4:00 pm.
APPLICATION PROCESS
Please submit your application via email to Council Administrator, Stacy Alpine, via email at Stacy.Alpine@cowichantribes.com no later than the deadline.
QUESTIONS
If you have any questions, please contact Council Administrator, Stacy Alpine, at (250) 748-3196 or Stacy.Alpine@cowichantribes.com
Click HERE or Scan QR Code for the Tribal Journey Community Grant guidelines and application form
Project Update - Kilpahlas Beach
A new concession stand is coming to Kilpahlas Beach to replace the existing and unsafe concession building just in time for Tribal Journeys. The new concession will be built into a shipping container and will have a sink, LED lighting, a power hook-up, an on-demand hot water heater, air conditioning and heat. The large doors that the shipping container has will be functional to bring in supplies and larger items. There will be a smaller door to enter and exit.
The exterior will have a window that can slide open and closed, as well as a small counter that can be raised lowered and a security cover that lifts up and down protecting the window from vandalism. The concession will be able to be moved to other locations to support other events in different locations. We are also in the process of fixing up the Spirit Stage to replace the existing and unsafe wooden stage close to the beach. We are working with a welder fabricator to replace broken items and make the stage easier and faster to set up and tear down. This work will also be completed for Tribal Journeys.
CURBSIDE SCHEDULE
Yu-qw’iqw’ulus (June) 2025
ELIGIBILITY REQUIREMENTS
ACADEMIC ACHIEVEMENT
SCHOLARSHIPS FOR STUDENTS GRADES 8-12
The Cowichan Tribes Cultural Education Committee offers annual scholarships for achievements in English, Math and Science, and Trades Math.
Students can receive cash awards of $100 to $300 depending on their grade level.
APPLICATIONS ARE NOW OPEN
Click HERE or Scan QR Code scholarship application
1. Scholarships are available to Cowichan Tribes members attending Grades 8 through 12.
2. Students must maintain a "B" average (or equivalent) in the subject they are applying for.
APPLICATION
REVIEW PROCESS
1. Applications will be reviewed and recommended by the Cowichan Tribes Cultural Education Committee.
2. These awards are presented at our annual Cowichan Tribes QSL Recognition Night
SUBMISSION
DEADLINE
1. Applications and report cards must be submitted by 4:00 p.m. on Wednesday, July 9, 2025.
2. Application forms are available online or in person at the QSL office (5744 Allenby Road).
3. Submit completed documents to the Quw’utsun Syuw’entst Lelum office in person, by mail, or via email at Education@cowichantribes.com.
For more information, call: (250) 715-1022 or email: education@cowichantribes.com.
CALLING ALL GRADUATES!
You can be recognized at our July 23rd graduation celebration! Please connect with Richard Hock, Post-Secondary Advisor, to go over eligibility criteria.
Students who have completed their post-secondary programs during the 2024-25 academic year are eligible to participate. You will need to verify your graduation status and your proof of program completion.
For more information or to RSVP, please call (250) 715-1022 or email QSL-registration@cowichantribes.com
Other reminders:
The fall deadline has passed (March 31), but students can still apply for sponsorship until funding is exhausted.
For sponsored students, once you have received unofficial transcripts with marks from the spring semester, please email them to Post.Secondary@cowichantribes.com.
Are you interested in applying for an incentive award for the 2024-25 academic year?
Use QR code to access the Incentive Award application form or visit the Cowichan tribes website. Once filled out , attach current transcript , and email to Post .Secondary@cowichantribes.com by June 30, 2025.
In Loving Memory of Cheryl Sylvester
It is with heavy hearts and deep respect that we honour the life and memory of Cheryl Sylvester, who passed away last month after a courageous battle with cancer.
Cheryl was more than a coworker - she was family.
Over the past five years, Cheryl served our community with strength, warmth, and compassion. Starting as a Bus Monitor and later becoming our Transportation Coordinator, Cheryl became the face of our transportation program. She was a dependable, friendly, and deeply respected presence in the lives of students, parents, drivers, and staff.
She brought joy and heart to her role, creating a safe and supportive environment for everyone she worked with. Her dedication helped shape the positive spirit of our department. Cheryl had a way of making everyone feel welcomed, heard, and cared for. Her laughter, reliability, and leadership will never be forgotten.
Cheryl often spoke about her deep love for her children and grandchildren. Her family was her everything. She also shared a strong and loving bond with her siblings, including her sister Ruthie Storey, and brought that love into every room and every conversation.
Her contributions were more than just a job, they were a calling. Cheryl held a leadership presence that others trusted and leaned on. As Transportation Supervisor, I always knew that if the day came for me to step away, Cheryl would be the one to hold the fort with calm, grace, and integrity Cheryl was strong, humble, and had a kind heart
She was loved deeply and will be missed always.
Cheryl, your spirit will live on in the lives you touched, the kindness you gave, and the joy you brought into our workplace and hearts.
Rest in peace. You will always be in our hearts. (For Cheryl - who loved the bus, cherries, music, and kindness)
Darin George Transportation Supervisor
“What you leave behind is not what is engraved in stone monuments, but what is woven into the lives of others.”
Pericles
“When you are remembered by your people, your spirit is never truly gone.”
Our Teaching
This is a great loss to our entire community. On behalf of Roxanne Harris, Education Director, myself as Transportation Supervisor, and all of our staff at Quw’utsun Syuw’entst Lelum, we offer our deepest condolences and prayers to Cheryl’s parents, children, grandchildren, all her siblings, and extended family.
Huy ch q’u,
Roxanne Harris, B.Ed., M.Ed. Executive Director Quw’utsun Syuw’entst Lelum Culture & Education Department
YOU ARE NOT ALONE YOU ARE NOT ALONE
It takes a courageous kind of strength to admit when the path ahead feels too steep, but remember, you are not alone in navigating those difficult terrains. Within the heart of every community beats a rhythm of shared experience, a tapestry woven with threads of resilience and understanding. Reaching out, extending a hand, is not a sign of weakness, but an act of profound self-awareness and a testament to your will to live and heal.
We are trees. We bend in the storm, but we do not break because we move with the wind. We find strength in flexibility, and we find strength in the forest around us. The community is the forest, lifting one another up, our branches reaching out, and with our leaves, we offer shelter.
Connecting with your community, whether through friends, family, support networks, over the phone, or even online, can illuminate the darkness. Sharing your burdens doesn’t diminish them; it divides them, creating space for understanding and allowing shared solutions to blossom. There are people who want to listen, who have walked similar paths, and who can offer a steady hand to hold.
There is hope, even when it feels distant. There is a future waiting to be written, a future filled with possibilities you may not yet see. Your life is a precious and unique story, one that deserves to continue. By reaching out, you are taking a vital step in rewriting the narrative, inviting others to become part of your journey toward healing and hope. Embrace the strength within you to connect, to share, and to allow the warmth of community to guide you back toward the light.
You are valued. You are important. And you don’t have to carry this weight alone.
– The Embracing Life Team
CASES ARE ON THE RISE
Measles is a highly contagious virus.
When someone who has measles coughs or sneezes, it spre it can remain present for up to two hours, and on things like tables or toys.
Unvaccinated children and pregnant women are at highest risk for complications.
90% of people will be infected if they are around someone who is sick with measles and they haven’t been vaccinated, or had measles before.
The most effective way to prevent measles is childhood vaccinations.
Some adults are protected from measles because of childhood vaccinations. However, anyone born after 1970 still needs two doses of the vaccine. With measles cases on the rise across the country, we encourage all families to ensure their smun’eem are protected with two doses of the measles vaccine.
You can check your medical records online through the BC Health Gateway: https://www.healthgateway.gov.bc.ca/
If you or your family are experiencing any measle-like symptoms, contact your doctor or call 811 to speak to a 24/7 nurse.
Measles’ symptoms include: red spots, runny nose, cough, high fever, red/watery eyes, ear infections, lung infections, or diarrhea.
YOUTH
Yu-qw’iqw’ulus (June) 2025
NATIONAL YOUTH WEEK
May 1-7, 2025
National Youth Week was a resounding success as we dedicated time to celebrate and uplift our incredible young people! Over 45 enthusiastic youth joined us for a week packed with fun and connection.
The week kicked off with a lively kickball tournament at the park , where teamwork and laughter were the real winners. We then traded the field for the lanes at the bowling alley, where strikes and spares were met with cheers and high-fives. A relaxing movie afternoon provided a chance to unwind and share some popcorn, followed by a beautiful picnic at Glenora and time spent playing in the forest . The week wrapped up with a thrilling pool tournament , showcasing impressive skills and friendly rivalry.
More than just fun and games, National Youth Week was about reinforcing how much our youth mean to us and to the wider community. The smiles, the laughter, and the teamwork displayed throughout the week were truly inspiring. The picnic at Glenora , for instance, not only offered a chance to relax but also fostered a sense of belonging and appreciation for our local environment . We believe these experiences help nurture essential life skills and create lasting memories.
We are incredibly grateful for each and every one of the wonderful , amazing kiddos who share their energy and potential with us. Their unique perspectives and bright futures are invaluable. As we concluded this special week , we offered our heartfelt gratitude with Huy ch q'u to every single one of you, for being so perfectly you.
We look forward to continuing to support and celebrate our youth throughout the year and beyond!
YOUTH WEEK AWARDS!
We raise our hands to our YOUTH WEEK AWARD winners!
Let ’s congratulate these incredible individuals for their outstanding contributions to our community and to Youth Services. Your hard work and dedication inspire us.
ROOKIE OF THE YEAR: ROGER SEYMOUR
MOST IMPROVED: WESLEY MODESTE
MVP (LEADERSHIP): CAMERON SEYMOUR
UNSUNG HERO: NICK WILSON
SPORTSMANSHIP: EUQENE JOSEPH
ALL STAR: SIMONE SILLSEEMULT
ALL STAR: WAGE PAGE
ALL STAR: SHYRA CHARLIE
ACCESS THE INTAKE FORM
ACCESS THE INTAKE FORM
Gather the information needed for your individual policy - we will support you!
LEARN HOW TO APPLY LEARN HOW TO APPLY
Review the 5 Steps to secure an insurance policy, and what to expect along the way.
QUESTIONS & ANSWERS
QUESTIONS & ANSWERS
Understand what has changed, and how cost,
and communication has
Yu-qw’iqw’ulus (June) SUL-HWEEN SCHEDULE 2025
Hul'q'umi'num'
Hul'q'umi'num'
Hul'q'umi'num'
Class 9:30-11:30am Swim 9:00-11:00am
Hul'q'umi'num'
Class 9:30-11:30am
GOOD FOOD BAG PROGRAM
Hul'q'umi'num'
Class 9:30-11:30am Footcare 9:00am-4:00pm
Footcare 9:00am-4:00pm
Hul'q'umi'num'
Class 9:30-11:30am
Swim 9:00-11:00am Swim 9:00-11:00am
Hul'q'umi'num'
Class 9:30-11:30am
Footcare 9:00am-4:00pm
Hul'q'umi'num'
Class 9:30-11:30am
Footcare 9:00am-4:00pm Shopping
Swim 9:00-11:00am Swim 9:00-11:00am
Our Good Food Bag (GFB) Program provides a variety of fruits and vegetables to Elders for the cost of $15.00 per bag, cash payments can be at the Elders Building. Below are the Good Food Bag program 2025 dates indicating when money is due, and the date you will receive your Good Food Bag.
GFB Money Due: Receive GFB:
June 6, 2025
July 11, 2025
June 10, 2025
July 15, 2025
* Please note, we do not deliver Good Food Bags. Pick up can be made at the Elders Building *
August 8, 2025 5764 Allenby Rd, Duncan, BC V9L 5J1 (250) 715-3303
August 12, 2025
Bringing Healthy Birth Back to Quw ’utsun
April 13–17: Supported by the UBC Community-University Engagement Fund, the Study Team, along with Maternal-Child Health Worker
Christina Tinoco and Councillor Francine Alphonse, visited Six Nations of the Grand River’s Birth Centre (in Ohsweken, ON), Seventh Generation Midwives of Toronto, and the Call Auntie Clinic.
We raise our hands to these incredible teams for graciously hosting us! The passion and dedication we witnessed were truly awe-inspiring. We met both Indigenous and non-Indigenous midwives who humbly serve Indigenous mothers and their families using a blend of traditional birthing practices and western medicine.
Over the next year, our team will be sharing what we’ve learned with the community.
If you’d like to learn more, please contact Brenda.
You can also Scan QR Code or click HERE to learn about Indigenous midwifery
We are excited to share that the Canadian Journal of Public Health published an article guided by T’ultunaat Lydia Seymour and Elder Doreen Peter, written by Jennifer Murray, PhD Student with UBC, School of Population and Public Health, with support from our Research Advisory Committee members.
Scan QR Code or Click HERE to read it!
The Quw’utsun Preterm Birth Study Team Sul-hween Doreen Peter, Brenda Yuen, Jen Murray, Melainee Sampson
F i r s t N a t i o n i n N a n a i m o a n d i s p r o u d t o r e t u r n h o m e t o s e r v e h i s
c o m m u n i t y i n t h i s i m p o r t a n t r o l e . D a n o c o m e s f r o m a f a m i l y w i t h
a r i c h l e g a c y i n s p o r t - o v e r 1 0 0 y e a r s o f i n v o l v e m e n t i n h i g h - l e v e l
a t h l e t i c s , i n c l u d i n g m o r e t h a n 3 5 y e a r s i n e l i t e s p o r t s . H i s l i f e l o n g
p a s s i o n f o r c o m p e t i t i o n , w e l l n e s s , a n d c o m m u n i t y d e v e l o p m e n t
c o n t i n u e s t o g u i d e h i s w o r k
H e s t u d i e d R e c r e a t i o n a t b o t h C a m o s u n C o l l e g e a n d V a n c o u v e r
I s l a n d U n i v e r s i t y a n d c o m p l e t e d h i s P r o f e s s i o n a l C o a c h i n g
D e v e l o p m e n t C e r t i f i c a t e a t t h e N a t i o n a l C o a c h i n g I n s t i t u t e i n 1 9 9 5 .
D a n o l e a r n e d a h o l i s t i c a n d c u l t u r a l l y g r o u n d e d a p p r o a c h t o
c o a c h i n g t h r o u g h t h e g u i d a n c e o f t h e l a t e S a m m y S a m , A r v i d
C h a r l i e , a n d R a y P e t e r . C o l l a b o r a t i n g w i t h t h e s e r e s p e c t e d l e a d e r s ,
D a n o p l a y e d a k e y r o l e i n d e v e l o p i n g t h e A b o r i g i n a l C o a c h i n g
M o d u l e s - a v i t a l r e s o u r c e n o w a d o p t e d b y t h e N a t i o n a l C o a c h i n g
C e r t i f i c a t i o n P r o g r a m ( N C C P ) a n d t h e A b o r i g i n a l S p o r t
D
o m m i t t
t
s
D a n o ( D a n i e l ) T h o r n e
Day: Monday, June 16, 2025
Time: 1:00 pm - 6:00 pm
Ts’ewulhtun Health Centre 5768 Allenby Rd, Duncan, BC
Hwialusmutul’ Community Health
• Check out the Preterm Birth Study
• Lego Family Spirit Program
• Self swabs for HPV
• Childhood immunizations
Ts’ewulhtun Dental Clinic
• Try sitting in the dental chair
• Check out the new “wand” Medical Transportation
• Learn about your options to get to medical appoinments
Slhexun sun’ts’a’ Primary Care Clinic 121 Ingram St, Duncan, BC
• Harm Reduction Van on display
• Naloxone Training
• Youth Clinic
• Learn more about team-based care
Quw’utsun Sul-hween (Elders) 5764 Allenby Rd, Duncan, BC
Check out our services:
• Tub Room
• Footcare
• Fall Prevention
Kwam’Kwum’Tthun Shqwaluwun Youth Services 470 Trans Canada Hwy, Duncan, BC
• Check out the new Youth Services location
• Learn about their monthly cultural activities
• Enter through the back of the building on Whistler St - look for balloons at the back door!
Kwun’atsustul Counselling 200 Cowichan Way, Duncan, BC
Learn about:
• Nature-based Day Treatment Program
• Mental Health Supports
• Youth Biking Group
Ingram St Craig St
S T S I ’ E L H S T U H W T
S M U N ’ E E M
s t r e n g t h e n c u l t u r a l p r a c t i c e s a n d c o m m u n i t y t i e s . S h e h o l d s a
C h i l d a n d Y o u t h d i p l o m a f r o m M a l a s p i n a U n i v e r s i t y - C o l l e g e
( 2 0 0 7 ) a n d a d e g r e e f r o m V a n c o u v e r I s l a n d U n i v e r s i t y ( 2 0 0 9 ) . H e r p r o f e s s i o n a l j o u r n e y h a s i n c l u d e d r o l e s a t L a l u m ' u t u l ’
S m u n ' e e m , w h e r e s h e h a s s e r v e d i n v a r i o u s c a p a c i t i e s , i n c l u d i n g
C h i l d S a f e t y S o c i a l W o r k e r , P e r m a n e n c y M a n a g e r , a n d A c t i n g
A s s o c i a t e D i r e c t o r . A p r o u d Q u w ’ u t s u n m e m b e r a n d p a s s i o n a t e
a b o u t f a m i l y , P a t r i c i a t r e a s u r e s t i m e s p e n t w i t h h e r c h i l d r e n a n d
g r a n d c h i l d r e n S h e b e c a m e a m o t h e r a t a y o u n g a g e a n d d e e p l y
v a l u e s t h e i m p o r t a n c e o f E l d e r s a n d c u l t u r a l s u p p o r t s . H e r l a t e
p a r e n t s , c h i l d r e n , a n d g r a n d c h i l d r e n i n s p i r e h e r r e s i l i e n c e a n d
d r i v e f o r p e r s o n a l a n d p r o f e s s i o n a l g r o w t h . S h e b e l i e v e s t h a t
c h a l l e n g e s a r e t e m p o r a r y a n d t h a t p r o g r e s s i s a l w a y s p o s s i b l e . H e r c o m m i t m e n t t o c o m m u n i t y i s r e f l e c t e d i n h e r a d v o c a c y f o r
c h i l d a n d f a m i l y j u r i s d i c t i o n , e n s u r i n g t h a t Q u w ’ u t s u n v a l u e s a r e
e m b e d d e d i n p o l i c i e s t h a t s u p p o r t a n d p r o t e c t f a m i l i e s . T h r o u g h
h e r w o r k , P a t r i c i a c o n t i n u e s t o s t r e n g t h e n c u l t u r a l c o n n e c t i o n s a n d e m p o w e r t h o s e a r o u n d h e r .
Q w i y a h w u l t - h w
S t u a r t P a d a g u a n
B o a r d C h a i r
S t u a r t i s a p r o u d C o w i c h a n T r i b e s m e m b e r a n d a n a c t i v e
c o m m u n i t y a d v o c a t e f o r C o w i c h a n t e a c h i n g s a n d l a n g u a g e .
S t u a r t h a s s p e n t m o s t o f h i s l i f e a s a n i n s p i r a t i o n a l C o a s t
S a l i s h a r t i s t , u s i n g h i s c r e a t i v e f l o w t o b u i l d b r i d g e s b e t w e e n
K l h a w l h a
M i c h a e l A l p i n e
B o a r d M e m b e r
T s e e ' y u p ' t a ' n a a t '
M a d e l i n e J o e
B o a r d M e m b e r
t h e C o w i c h a n p e o p l e a n d t h e b r o a d e r C o w i c h a n V a l l e y
c o m m u n i t y H e c r e a t e s p o w e r f u l i m a g e r y u s e d i n m a n y s c h o o l s
a n d c l a s s r o o m s t o e n h a n c e s t u d e n t l e a r n i n g o f H u l ’ q ’ u m i ’ n u m ’ .
W o r k i n g i n a v a r i e t y o f m e d i u m s , S t u a r t ’ s a r t i s f e a t u r e d
a r o u n d t h e w o r l d . H e c o n t i n u e s t o b r i n g a m o d e r n s t y l e t o
C o a s t S a l i s h a r t s w h i l e r e m a i n i n g g r o u n d e d i n c u l t u r a l
t r a d i t i o n S t u a r t w a s f o r t u n a t e t o b e r a i s e d b y h i s
g
i s a s t r o n g a d v o c a t e f o r p r e s e r v i n g t h e H u l ’ q
l a n g u a g e a n d f o r s u p p o r t i n g y o u t h i n t h e i r c u l t u r a l a n d
. H e
p e r s o n a l j o u r n e y s S t u a r t c u r r e n t l y w o r k s a t I s l a n d H e a l t h a s
a n I n d i g e n o u s A d v i s o r , w h e r e h e c o n t i n u e s t o u p l i f t
I n d i g e n o u s v o i c e s a n d p e r s p e c t i v e s t h r o u g h h i s l e a d e r s h i p a n d
a d v o c a c y .
M i c h a e l A l p i n e , a p r o u d C o w i c h a n m e m b e r , w o r k s i n t h e R e c o r d s
a n d I n f o r m a t i o n M a n a g e m e n t d e p a r t m e n t f o r C o w i c h a n T r i b e s ,
w h e r e h e h e l p s p r e s e r v e C o w i c h a n h i s t o r y t h r o u g h d i g i t i z a t i o n
a n d g o v e r n a n c e p o l i c y d e v e l o p m e n t H e h o l d s a B a c h e l o r o f
B u s i n e s s A d m i n i s t r a t i o n w i t h a m a j o r i n M a n a g e m e n t f r o m
V a n c o u v e r I s l a n d U n i v e r s i t y ( V I U ) , w h e r e h e r e c e i v e d t h e
E l i z a b e t h N e w h a m B u r s a r y f o r O u t s t a n d i n g A c a d e m i c
A c h i e v e m e n t . H i s b a c k g r o u n d i n c l u d e s e x t e n s i v e g o v e r n a n c e
t r a i n i n g a n d s e c u r i t y e x p e r i e n c e f r o m h i s r o l e i n t h e f i r s t
C o w i c h a n T r i b e s G u a r d i a n p r o j e c t . B o r n i n S e a t t l e a n d h a v i n g
s p e n t h i s e a r l y y e a r s i n c a r e , M i c h a e l u n d e r s t a n d s t h e c h a l l e n g e s
I n d i g e n o u s c h i l d r e n a n d f a m i l i e s f a c e i n t h e c h i l d w e l f a r e
s y s t e m . H e i s p a s s i o n a t e a b o u t c o m m u n i t y e n g a g e m e n t a n d
e n j o y s p u b l i c s p e a k i n g , e v e n t h o s t i n g , D J i n g , a n d c o n t r i b u t i n g t o
H a l l o w e e n p y r o t e c h n i c s . D r a w i n g f r o m b o t h h i s p e r s o n a l a n d
p r o f e s s i o n a l e x p e r i e n c e s , M i c h a e l a i m s t o s u p p o r t s t r o n g
b u s i n e s s a n d g o v e r n a n c e d e c i s i o n s a l o n g s i d e h i s c o l l e a g u e s a t
t h e B o a r d o f D i r e c t o r s t a b l e .
W i t h e x t e n s i v e e x p e r i e n c e i n I n d i g e n o u s a d v o c a c y , g o v e r n a n c e , a n d c o m m u n i t y s e r v i c e , M a d e l i n e h a s d e d i c a t e d o v e r 2 5 y e a r s
t o s u p p o r t i n g I n d i g e n o u s c h i l d r e n , y o u t h , a n d f a m i l i e s
p a r t i c u l a r l y i n c h i l d w e l f a r e m a t t e r s . S h e h a s s e r v e d o n m u l t i p l e
b o a r d s a n d c o m m i t t e e s , i n c l u d i n g t h e C o w i c h a n T r i b e s
C i t i z e n s h i p A p p e a l s B o a r d a n d S t s i ’ e l h S t u h w t u n S m u n ' e e m
M a d e l i n e ’ s e x p e r t i s e s p a n s p r o g r a m m a n a g e m e n t , p o l i c y
d e v e l o p m e n t , c o m m u n i t y c o n s u l t a t i o n , a n d b u s i n e s s a n d
p r o j e c t m a n a g e m e n t . A s a n i n d e p e n d e n t c o n s u l t a n t , s h e h a s
s u p p o r t e d B o a r d o f D i r e c t o r s t r a i n i n g , f a c i l i t a t e d g o v e r n a n c e
d i s c u s s i o n s , a n d a s s i s t e d i n t h e i m p l e m e n t a t i o n o f c u l t u r a l
p r o g r a m s . H e r a c a d e m i c b a c k g r o u n d i n c l u d e s s t u d i e s i n c h i l d a n d y o u t h c a r e , l e g a l s t u d i e s , s o c i a l w o r k , a n d l i t e r a t u r e . T h r o u g h v o l u n t e e r r o l e s i n h e a l t h n e t w o r k s , h o u s i n g c o a l i t i o n s , a n d I n d i g e n o u s a d v i s o r y g r o u p s , s h e h a s c o n t r i b u t e d t o
i n i t i a t i v e s a d d r e s s i n g y o u t h h o m e l e s s n e s s , p r e n a t a l s u b s t a n c e u s e , a n d I n d i g e n o u s p a t i e n t s e r v i c e s .
H w u l q u l e t s e '
A l b i e C h a r l i e
B o a r d M e m b e r
K a a h k a w i i n u q s a a h
K a i t l y n A t l e o
B o a r d M e m b e r
T t h e ' y k w ' u l a a t
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B o a r d M e m b e r
C u l t u r a l l y , w e a r e m e a n t t o l o o k a f t e r o u r y o u n g p e o p l e
W o r k i n g i n s o c i a l w o r k a n d w i t h y o u t h h a s a l w a y s b e e n a
s i g n i f i c a n t p a r t o f m y l i f e . W h e n j u r i s d i c t i o n b e g a n , I k n e w I
w a n t e d t o b e a p a r t o f i t , a n d I h a v e b e e n s i n c e i t f i r s t s t a r t e d
C
E l d e r s a d v i s o r y , l a n d i n v e s t i g a t i o n , j u s t i c e , a
a l s o s e r v e d s e v e n t e r m s a s a m e m b e r o f C h i e f a n d C o u n c i l
A
t r a d i t i o n s , f l u e n c y i n H u l ’ q ’ u m i ’ n u m ’ , a n d h i s r o l e a s a
k n o w l e d g e k e e p e r . H e a l s o m a i n t a i n s s t r o n g r e l a t i o n s h i p s w i t h
s u r r o u n d i n g N a t i o n s .
K a i t l y n A t l e o s e r v e s a s t h e y o u t h r e p r e s e n t a t i v e o n o u r b o a r d .
S h e i s c u r r e n t l y a u n i v e r s i t y s t u d e n t i n E n g l a n d , w h e r e s h e
s t u d i e s a n d p l a y s s o c c e r f o r M a c c l e s f i e l d F C K a i t l y n i s w o r k i n g
t o w a r d h e r M a s t e r o f S c i e n c e i n S p o r t s B u s i n e s s M a n a g e m e n t
a n d h a s j u s t c o m p l e t e d h e r s e c o n d y e a r o f s t u d y .
W i t h h e r d e g r e e , K a i t l y n ’ s g o a l i s t o c r e a t e s o c c e r d e v e l o p m e n t
p r o g r a m s f o r u n d e r p r i v i l e g e d c h i l d r e n . S h e a l s o a i m s t o h e l p
b u i l d p a t h w a y s f o r p l a y e r s t o p u r s u e s o c c e r a t e l i t e a n d
p r o f e s s i o n a l l e v e l s . D u r i n g t h e s u m m e r , K a i t l y n p l a y s l o c a l l y
w i t h o u r C o w i c h a n F C A l l - N a t i v e l a d i e s t e a m a n d h o p e s t o d o
s o m e c o a c h i n g t h r o u g h t h e H o p e a n d H e a l t h P r o g r a m . K a i t l y n e n j o y s h e r r o l e o n t h e b o a r d a n d i s h o p e f u l t h a t t h e
c h a n g e s b e i n g m a d e w i l l h a v e l a s t i n g p o s i t i v e e f f e c t s o n o u r
c o m m u n i t y a n d f u t u r e g e n e r a t i o n s . S h e i s g u i d e d b y t h e
t e a c h i n g s o f h e r g r e a t - g r a n d p a r e n t s a n d b e l i e v e s t h a t
s u p p o r t i n g o u r c o m m u n i t y t o h e a l a n d t h r i v e i s a s h a r e d
r e s p o n s i b i l i t y f o r a l l o f u s .
D i a n a E l l i o t t h a s d e d i c a t e d o v e r 3 3 y e a r s t o A b o r i g i n a l I n f a n t
D e v e l o p m e n t P r o g r a m s ( A I D P ) , s e r v i n g a s t h e P r o v i n c i a l A d v i s o r
f o r 5 7 p r o g r a m s a c r o s s B . C . f o r n e a r l y 2 0 y e a r s . A p r o u d m e m b e r
o f C o w i c h a n T r i b e s w i t h t i e s t o t h e H u p a c a s a t h F i r s t N a t i o n , s h e
v a l u e s t h e r o l e o f c u l t u r e , f a m i l y , a n d l i f e l o n g l e a r n i n g i n I n d i g e n o u s E a r l y C h i l d h o o d D e v e l o p m e n t a n d C a r e
T h r o u g h o u t h e r c a r e e r , D i a n a h a s i n t e g r a t e d E l d e r t e a c h i n g s a n d
c o m m u n i t y k n o w l e d g e i n t o h e r w o r k , e m p h a s i z i n g c u l t u r a l l y
s a f e , f a m i l y - c e n t e r e d a p p r o a c h e s . S h e i s c u r r e n t l y a s e s s i o n a l
i n s t r u c t o r a t V a n c o u v e r I s l a n d U n i v e r s i t y , w h e r e s h e m e n t o r s
f u t u r e E a r l y C h i l d h o o d E d u c a t i o n a n d C a r e ( E C E C ) p r o f e s s i o n a l s , w i t h a s p e c i a l f o c u s o n I n d i g e n o u s s t u d e n t s .
D i a n a b e l i e v e s t h a t c a r i n g f o r c h i l d r e n i s b o t h a n h o n o r a n d a
r e s p o n s i b i l i t y . S h e r e m a i n s d e e p l y c o m m i t t e d t o c o m m u n i t y
w e l l n e s s a n d i s e a g e r t o c o n t r i b u t e t o q u a l i t y p r o g r a m s f o r
f a m i l i e s t h r o u g h h e r i n v o l v e m e n t w i t h S t s ’ e l h S t u h w T u
S m u n ’ e e m .
U
E m i l y S a l m o n
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Q u q u y e l h
J o n a t h a n J o e
B o a r d M e m b e r
Y u t e t e t h u
C l a r i s s a P e t e r
B o a r d M e m b e r
D r . E m i l y S a l m o n ( U n x i i m t u n a a t ) i s a p r o u d m e m b e r o f C o w i c h a n
T r i b e s . H e r w o r k i s i n s p i r e d b y h e r p a r e n t s , t h e l a t e T e d a n d
L y n e W i l l i a m s , w h o e m p h a s i z e d t h e r e s p o n s i b i l i t y t o u s e o n e ’ s
g i f t s t o s u p p o r t a n d u p l i f t f a m i l y a n d c o m m u n i t y . E m i l y l i v e s i n
C o w i c h a n w i t h h e r t w o y o u n g c h i l d r e n a n d i s e x c i t e d t o b r i n g h e r
k n o w l e d g e a n d e x p e r i e n c e t o s u p p o r t b u s i n e s s p r a c t i c e s t h a t
r e f l e c t C o w i c h a n s o v e r e i g n t y a n d c u l t u r e . E m i l y i s a l s o a n
A s s i s t a n t P r o f e s s o r a t S i m o n F r a s e r U n i v e r s i t y ’ s B e e d i e S c h o o l o f
B u s i n e s s , s p e c i a l i z i n g i n I n d i g e n o u s b u s i n e s s , l e a d e r s h i p , a n d
s u s t a i n a
I n d i g e n o u s m e t h o d o l o g i
J o n a t h a n J o e h a s d e d i c a t e d o v e r 3 3 y e a r s t o t h e P u b l i c S e r v i c e
o f C a n a d a w i t h t h e D e p a r t m e n t o f F i s h e r i e s a n d O c e a n s ( D F O ) , s e r v i n g a s a P a c i f i c R e g i o n a l N e g o t i a t o r b e t w e e n F i r s t N a t i o n s
i n B r i t i s h C o l u m b i a a n d D F O . H i s w o r k h a s f o c u s e d o n T r e a t y
N e g o t i a t i o n s a n d R e c o n c i l i a t i o n , t h e A b o r i g i n a l F i s h e r i e s
S t r a t e g y ( A F S ) , t h e A l l o c a t i o n T r a n s f e r P r o g r a m ( A T P ) , t h e
A b o r i g i n a l G u a r d i a n P r o g r a m , t h e P a c i f i c I n t e g r a t e d
C o m m e r c i a l F i s h e r i e s I n i t i a t i v e ( P I C F I ) , a n d t h e A b o r i g i n a l
A q u a t i c R e s o u r c e a n d O c e a n s M a n a g e m e n t ( A A R O M ) p r o g r a m .
T h e s e i n i t i a t i v e s s u p p o r t I n d i g e n o u s g r o u p s i n d e v e l o p i n g a n d
m a i n t a i n i n g s c i e n t i f i c a n d t e c h n i c a l c a p a c i t y r e l a t e d t o
f i s h e r i e s , a q u a t i c r e s o u r c e s , a n d o c e a n s m a n a g e m e n t
J o n a t h a n i s a l s o d e e p l y r o o t e d i n c u l t u r e a n d l a n g u a g e . H e i s
c o m p l e t i n g h i s M a s t e r o f A r t s i n H u l ’ q ’ u m i ’ n u m ’ L i n g u i s t i c s a t
S i m o n F r a s e r U n i v e r s i t y ( S F U ) a n d i s a t r a d i t i o n a l C o a s t S a l i s h
C u l t u r a l H u l ’ q ’ u m i ’ n u m ’ S q w i ’ q w a l s p e a k e r f o r C o a s t S a l i s h
F i r s t N a t i o n s c o m m u n i t i e s a c r o s s V a n c o u v e r I s l a n d a n d
W a s h i n g t o n S t a t e . H e r e m a i n s c o m m i t t e d t o c o m m u n i t y w e l l n e s s a n d c o n t i n u e s t o c o n t r i b u t e t o q u a l i t y p r o g r a m s f o r
f a m i l i e s t h r o u g h h i s i n v o l v e m e n t w i t h S t s ’ e l h S t u h w T u
S m u n ’ e e m .
C l a r i s s a P e t e r , a p r o u d m e m b e r o f C o w i c h a n T r i b e s , i s e n t e r i n g
h e r f i n a l y e a r i n t h e J D / J I D p r o g r a m a t t h e U n i v e r s i t y o f V i c t o r i a , w h i c h f o c u s e s o n b o t h C a n a d i a n C o m m o n L a w a n d I n d i g e n o u s
L e g a l O r d e r s S h e i s t h e d a u g h t e r o f F r a n c i n e A l p h o n s e a n d
D e r r i c k P e t e r S r . , a n d t h e g r a n d d a u g h t e r o f t h e l a t e P h i l o m e n a
a n d D e n n i s A l p h o n s e , a n d M a r g a n d L e o n a r d P e t e r . R o o t e d i n
h e r Q u w ’ u t s u n i d e n t i t y , C l a r i s s a i s c o m m i t t e d t o r e v i t a l i z i n g
Q u w ’ u t s u n l a w s , e t h i c s , a n d g o v e r n a n c e . S h e s e e k s t o i n t e g r a t e
a n c e s t r a l t e a c h i n g s i n t o c o n t e m p o r a r y l e g a l s y s t e m s t o p r o t e c t
a n d s t r e n g t h e n h e r p e o p l e ’ s i n h e r e n t r i g h t s . C l a r i s s a s e r v e s o n
t h e b o a r d o f Q u w ’ u t s u n C h i l d a n d F a m i l y S e r v i c e s , w h e r e s h e
a d v o c a t e s f o r t h e w e l l - b e i n g o f Q u w ’ u t s u n f a m i l i e s t h r o u g h
c u l t u r a l l y g r o u n d e d , c o m m u n i t y - l e d g o v e r n a n c e . P a s s i o n a t e
a b o u t t h e r e s u r g e n c e a n d s o v e r e i g n t y o f Q u w ’ u t s u n g o v e r n a n c e ,
s h e e n v i s i o n s a f u t u r e w h e r e t r a d i t i o n a l l e a d e r s h i p s t r u c t u r e s
a r e u p h e l d a n d r e s p e c t e d . G u i d e d b y s n u w ’ u y ’ u l h ( c u l t u r a l t e a c h i n g s ) , C l a r i s s a s t r i v e s t o u p l i f t h e r N a t i o n a n d d r i v e
m e a n i n g f u l c h a n g e t h r o u g h h e r w o r k a n d e d u c a t i o n .
Blessing of New Emergency Services Vessel
In March of 2025, the Emergency Services team launched a contest to name a new vessel, and it was revealed at a special ceremony at Cowichan Bay’s Fisherman’s Wharf, held on May 20, 2025. Elders and Community Workers performed a ceremonial blessing of the vessel and her crew to ensure it was safe prior to operating, and successful work would be conducted throughout the lifetime of the boat.
Selected by the Elders’ Working Group, Marlene Tommy was the winner of the contest. The new vessel will have the name she chose: ts'i'ts'uwatul (“helpin' each other”). It is a fitting name as its primary uses will be environmental protection and emergency response.
Cowichan Tribes Emergency Services team is grateful to the Canadian Coast Guard (CDCR) who funded the vessel through the Co-Developed Community Response Grant.
Come and experience the “Quake Cottage” earthquake simulator
On May 13, Cowichan Tribes Emergency Services department hosted a training exercise to practice an evacuation drill for a fire scenario on Boys Rd and the Trans-Canada Hwy. The exercise was attended by multiple agencies and partners from throughout the Cowichan Valley and several departments from within Cowichan Tribes.
During the drill, a mock Emergency Operations Centre (EOC) was created, which included ensuring the proper personnel were in place. Once people were assigned to their roles, the scenario started with a motor vehicle accident that caused a large fire that impacted tra c and required an evacuation of multiple residence locations. As the scenario progressed, mock EOC personnel were responsible for communicating ongoing information needs related to the scenario, managing the needs of the members evacuated, and ensuring support was provided for the responders on-site, amongst other duties.
Emergency Operations Centre – Training Exercise
EOC personnel also worked with Emergency Management and Climate Readiness (EMCR) and Indigenous Services Canada (ISC) to provide funding for the necessary work required to ensure people, property and the environment were protected as best possible during the emergency event.
This type of exercise is critical for team members and partners to practice the emergency plans and resources that are in place for these types of emergencies. If you would like more information, please contact our o ce at emergency@cowichantribes.com.
https://vimeo.com/firesmartbc Video Resources PreparedBC: Get prepared for a wildfire http://preparedbc.ca/wildfires
Quw’utsun Corner
Standing at just 5’1”, Alexis Simmons may not be the first person who comes to mind when you picture a firefighter. But for the past few years, Alexis has been part of an elite firefighting team, battling blazes across the province.
A single mother with two of her children still at home, Alexis is grateful for the opportunity to serve her community, support her family, and experience the beauty of nature firsthand.
Born on a small island near Bremerton, WA, Alexis’ mother Lana Pagaduan often spoke of their Cowichan roots, and her summers were spent visiting her Johnny family relatives, originally from Green Point.
“We mostly stayed with my late uncle Alec and just kind of hung out. I loved all of my cousins up here and couldn’t wait for summer so we could go back to Canada.”
When her grandmother, the late Mary Virginia Johnny, was passing, Alexis traveled north with her mother to say goodbye. A drive through the Cowichan Valley changed everything.
“Now that I think about it, what probably led me to stay here was looking back on all those summers — sitting by the Cowichan River as a kid, watching the canoe races, going to bone games. And it dawned on me that’s what brought me here. This is home. It’s always been home.”
Alexis stayed in Cowichan, raised her family, and began reconnecting with her culture.
While working as a restaurant hostess, her daughter encouraged her to attend a job fair where she met Harmony Joseph and Khowutzun Forest Services’ GM Rob Furness, who invited her to interview for an administrative job. She got the role and is grateful for the changes KFS brought into her life.
Her work with KFS led her to support the Warriors fire crew and one day she witnessed a pep talk by Bobby Lang that inspired her to take on firefighting.
“That really stuck with me. So I tried to get as fit as I could while working and raising my kids. The next year, I decided to throw my hat in the ring.”
Now in her fourth year with KFS and third year as a firefighter, Alexis is a Type 3 firefighter. She loves the job, feels honored to see remote parts of the province, and finds beauty even in the scorched landscapes.
Alexis Simmon
She started firefighting in 2022. At the time, there was only one other woman — Harmony — who mentored her on her first deployment. On her next, Alexis was the only woman and held her own. By 2024, five women were on the crew, including her daughter. Alexis encourages others to consider firefighting. The season has begun — but it’s not too late to join!
“It’s a great honor. When we get home, people say, ‘You guys are heroes.’ At first, I didn’t see myself that way. But when I look at my kids and they say, ‘Mom, you did so good,’ I realize — that’s who I wanted to be, a hero to my children.”
Advice to her Younger Self:
“If I could go back in time, I would tell young Alexis that the future is brighter than what you think. So just keep doing, keep following your dreams, and, live in the moment because the moment is all that we really have. We just have this moment right now. So grab it and enjoy it.”
From Nursery to Shoreline, we are cultivating the return of Quw'utsun agriculture
Across the salt marshes and forest edges of the Cowichan Estuary, a land-based Quw'utsun food system is being revitalized with native food and medicinal plants taking root where they once thrived in abundance. In partnership with the land owner the Nature Trust of British Columbia, Cowichan Tribes and Lulumexun (Lands and Natural Resources) are working with Dr. Jennifer Grenz and the Indigenous Ecology Lab at UBC to restore the Indigenous agricultural systems that once flourished across these tidal flats and meadows: systems that sustained thriving villages with an estimated population of 15,000 Quw’utsun Mustimuhw
This work goes far beyond planting. Through detailed mapping, cultural interviews, and historical ecology, researchers are helping to re-establish a sophisticated and place-based system of Indigenous agriculture that predates colonization. Working closely with Quw’utsun Knowledge Keepers, research team members Alyssa Zandvliet and Nava Sachs have produced maps of the estuary’s current and historical vegetation. They are drawing attention to what our Elders describe as one of the most intact legacy-state food systems in the estuary: an area where intertidal gardens, Garry oak savannahs, and orchard zones converge.
The research documents this overlap in elevation and plant community, pairing field surveys with archival records and oral history to trace how European settlement disrupted longstanding Indigenous land management practices. This project highlights the resilience of these systems and their continued relevance today. The field survey, focused along the Khenipsen marsh ecosystem, including the area formerly known as “Dinsdale Farm,”
is building an ecological baseline to guide restoration efforts on site. The researchers are also studying the growing conditions that Quw’utsun food plants need to thrive in a modern restoration context. Their findings are integrated into future site planning and education by Lulumexun project staff, in consultation with Elders and Knowledge Keepers.
Since the fall, more than 15,000 native plants have been seeded in the Cowichan Estuary nursery, Hulitun Spulhxun/Tumuhw, as part of this Indigenous food systems revitalization project. Over the past eight months, hundreds of Quw’utsun citizens, students, staff, and partners have planted and cared for native species such as speenhw (camas), t’uqwum’ (thimbleberry), luluts’ulhp (tall Oregon grape), qel'qulhp (Nootka rose), and tth’iwuq’ (red elderberry). In doing so, they are not only revitalizing the landscape, but also renewing their relationships to it.
For many Quw’utsun Mustimuhw, especially youth, this has been their first opportunity to learn about these plants and their traditional uses. The events at Hulitun Spulhxun/Tumuhw are led by our Elders and supported by a growing network of partners, including the UBC Indigenous Ecology Lab, our Yuthuy'thut Learning Centre, Quw’utsun Secondary School, Nature Trust of BC, and Young Agrarians Canada. Most recently, these efforts were highlighted through Lulumexun's Root Camp events held at Hulitun Spulhxun/Tumuhw in April. Planning for Root Camp 2 is underway, so stay tuned for more updates on this work.
Summer Sea Garden Restoration Series
Quw'utsun Mustimuhw, join us in our efforts to restore our traditional shellfish harvesting areas in our territory!
This summer, Lulumexun and S-hwuhwa'us Thi'lut Kw'atl'kwa, will host a new series of community sea garden events, inviting our members to learn about this sacred work and take part in restoring it. Sea gardens are ancient rock-walled beach terraces that supported sustainable shellfish harvesting for millennia.
Through this work, we are supporting food sovereignty and environmental restoration; unlike the extractive methods introduced through colonial seafood harvesting, revitalized sea gardens improve water quality and strengthen marine ecosystems.
Participate in a day trip or three-day camping trip with Quw'utsun Elders and Knowledge Keepers learning about sea gardens and connecting with the beach. Get your hands dirty working to rebuild the seawall. And, wherever possible, harvest shellfish to take home to your friends and family.
These all-ages event are free to attend, and transportation, meals and equipment are provided.
Don't miss out on this chance to enjoy good teachings, good food, and lasting memories.
16: Day trip July 12: Day trip June 25 – 27: 3-Day camp out July 24 – 26: 3-Day camp out
For more details, contact Lulumexun Sea Garden Restoration Coordinator, Jacob Cook, at (250) 732-1493, or Jacob.Cook@cowichantribes.com.
Environmental Opportunities
Volunteer
• Somenos Marsh Wildlife Society: June 2 and 16, 10am – 2pm. Support water testing and sampling at all four watershed creeks. Muster at the Somenos Dog Park for transportation to the testing sites. For more details, or to register, contact Phaedra Douglas, at: phaedra@somenosmarsh.com.
• Cowichan Estuary Nature Centre: No special qualifications required, training provided. https://www.cowichanestuary.ca/volunteer/
• Cowichan Land Trust: Stream and wetland stewardship projects. Training and equipment provided. Contact: info@cowichanlandtrust.ca.
Employment
• Referral Coordinator: The Halalt First Nation is accepting applications for this full-time hybrid-remote position. The successful applicant will be responsible for matters related to Halalt First Nation water and land referrals, natural resources and environment within all of the Nation’s reserve lands. This position is also responsible for providing guidance and support on all land management issues, including legislation regulations, tenure renewals, and licensing. For a full job description and to apply, visit: https://ca.trabajo.org/job-3385-d35d373641b4b53992c9193262350854
• Stewardship Intern: Malahat Nation is accepting applications for this Summer Student position. Eligible applicants must be between the age of 15-30, currently enrolled in school, and a Malahat Nation Member. The successful applicant will be responsible for assisting the Marine Stewardship Team in primarily fieldbased work, with some light office duties. For a full job description and application form, visit: https:// cdn.malahat.cloud/cdn/sasqets/jobs/2025_Summer_Student_Application_Form_May2025_002.pdf
Events
2025 Salmonid Enhancement Program Community Workshop
On June 13 – 15, the Simpcw First Nation is hosting Pacific Region Salmon Enhancement Program partners to this year’s installment of the biennial event. This year’s theme of Taking Action Together: Empowering our Salmon Community for Climate Resilience aims to bring together hundreds of participants, representing various stewardship groups, community hatcheries, and other community conservation groups for hands-on and interactive training and information sessions.
To register, or for more info, visit: https://www. sepcommunityworkshop.ca/index.php
World Ocean Day
On June 8, 11am – 4pm, the Greater Victoria Harbour Authority is hosting their annual World Ocean Day celebration at Fisherman’s Wharf in Victoria. This free and family-friendly event will feature a variety of conservation groups from around the Salish Sea, including a welcoming performance by the ləkəŋən Traditional Dancers.
For more details, visit: https://gvha.ca/events/world-ocean-day
June 24, 2025 is cheque day for July 2025
Income Assistance
• All Social Development clients are required to complete an annual tax return. The deadline to file your 2024 taxes was April 30, 2025. Clients will receive a 2024 Notice of Assessment in the mail. Please provide a copy to your Band Social Development Worker, and it will be added to your Income Assistance file.
• For those with children included in their file, 2024 Child Tax Benefit statements will also arrive by mail. Please ensure you provide a copy of this document as well for your Income Assistance file.
Designed Band Representatives (DBRS)
Good News! New O ce Space for Cowichan Tribes Designated Band Representatives Cowichan Tribes Designated Band Representatives (DBRS) now have o ce space located at #10 – 225 Canada Ave, Duncan, BC V9L 1T6.
Dora Swustus, Lori Guerin, Courtney Manhas, and Jennie Thomas each have an o ce in the new location. We also warmly welcome Corrina George as the Administrative Assistant.
Please note that DBRS do not have a landline and can be reached by calling (778) 422-2255.
Employment and Training News
• The June 2025 program calendar is now available for Income Assistance clients attending the Mel Shun Um Program. This month, participants will have the opportunity to visit a neighboring PES Program site to learn about their services and programming.
• Quw’utsun Employment and Training is supporting a variety of Cowichan Tribe departs with the recruitment process for summer students. This is a great opportunity for students aged 15–30 to gain valuable work experience!
Important O ce Closure Notices
Monday, June 9, 2025
8:30 AM – 12:00 PM Cowichan Tribes Social Development will be closed for an all-staff meeting. Services will resume at 1:00 PM.
Monday, June 23, 2025
All Cowichan Tribes o ces will be closed in observance of National Aboriginal Day.
CONTACT INFORMATION
Protect Your Home: Tips to Prevent Water Damage
To prevent water damage in your home, it 's important to perform regular maintenance and stay alert to signs of moisture or leaks.
Here are some key steps:
Water Shut- Of f: Know where your water shut-off valve is located. If you are in a Cowichan Tribes rental , please call the Sustainable Housing Department , we can help you locate your water shut-off valve.
Leak Detection: Install leak detectors in high-risk areas such as crawlspaces, basements, bathrooms, and kitchens. These can alert you to potential leaks before they cause major damage.
Gutters and Downspouts: Clean gutters and downspouts regularly to prevent water backups, which can lead to foundation damage or roof issues.
Drying Clothes Indoors: Drying clothes inside your home increases moisture in the air, which can contribute to mould growth. Use proper ventilation or a dryer that vents outside
Check for Leaks: Regularly inspect plumbing and appliance hoses
Watch for:
Water dripping from pipes or leaking taps
Condensation on the toilet tank
Leaks around toilets
Odours from floor drains
Moisture damage on floors, walls, or ceilings in bathrooms and kitchens
Important Reminder for Renters:
Cowichan Tribes renters are required to report all water leaks within 24 hours to the Sustainable Housing Department .
Emergencies can be reported to the Sustainable Housing Department 24 hours a day / 7 days a week by calling (250) 715-3302
REMINDERS
Please remember to update your phone number, email address, and mailing address with the Sustainable Housing Department . We have attempted to contact Citizens, only to find that the phone numbers we have on file are no longer correct .
The Sustainable Housing Department maintains a list of trusted vendors. If you are a private homeowner and are considering work on your home, please contact our department , we’re happy to connect you with reliable and approved service providers.
To ef fectively prepare for hiring a home contractor consider asking:
Experience and Credentials:
How long have you been in business?
Do you have a license and proper insurance?
What types of projects do you specialize in?
Can I see references or samples of your work?
Have you ever been sued or had any complaints filed against you?
Project Details:
What is the overall project timeline?
What is the payment schedule?
What materials will be used?
What is included in the contract - warranty, clean-up?
What are the project start and end dates?
Who will be my point of contact?
Under what circumstances could the price increase?
C o a s t S a l i s h I n s u r a n c e a n d
R i s k M a n a g e m e n t
S o l u t i o n s I n c .
“Dedicated to providing efficient and effective insurance and risk management solutions to Aboriginal communities, organizations, and businesses.”
Employment and Training
AMI Project
Khowutzun Development Co. (KDC) is excited to announce that the Advanced Meter Infrastructure (AMI) Project with FortisBC is now underway. Gasfitters have begun their training before deployment services begin across Vancouver Island, starting with Cultural Awareness Training for the new hires. On their first day, the new hires were presented with Quw’utsun mustimuhw history, such as the Cowichan Land base, residential schools, Quw’utsun teachings, and the respect for our traditional lands.
We raise our hands to the wonderful presenters, Cal Swustus Sr, Harold Joe, and Stephanie Atleo, who did an outstanding job. We are grateful for their knowledge and teachings.
Rivers Edge Project – Knappett
KDC is happy to announce that more Cowichan Citizens have joined the team at the Rivers Edge Project. Congratulations to Devon Thomas, Sean Edwards and Paul Alphonse!
Knappett Projects Inc. has been fantastic at ensuring Cowichan Tribes Citizens are included in the Rivers Edge Project – the two new apartment buildings going up at 222 Cowichan Way.
If you are interested in becoming a part of the team for the Rivers Edge Project, send your resume to Amanda.Peter@khowutzun.com.
Canadian Recognition of River’s
Edge
A celebration is being held to recognize the River’s Edge project. Leaders from Cowichan Tribes, the Government of Canada, and the Government of British Columbia will be in attendance to announce a significant investment in this innovative, community-led development. The event will also celebrate the partnerships, innovation, and leadership behind River’s Edge and its potential to inspire similar projects across the country.
River’s Edge, fully owned by Cowichan Tribes, is currently under construction at 222 Cowichan Way. This 200home mixed-use project is focused on creating quality, affordable housing for Cowichan members in a welcoming community along the historic Cowichan River.
Designed for families of all sizes, up to 20% of the homes at River’s Edge will be available to rent at 25% below market rates, with first-right-of-refusal for Cowichan Tribes Citizens.
Come celebrate this important recognition of our community’s vision, dedication, and commitment to building housing and communities in a way that promotes economic independence and resilience, while creating a model for future investment and collaboration.
Mi nuw’ilum – Welcome
The Khowutzun Heritage Centre (KHC) team was proud to host Cowichan Tribes’ on May 2, 2025. We extend a ‘Thank you’ to Cowichan Tribes staff for trusting their our to assist in this wonderful day. It was the first time in many years that both Quamichan and Comeakin Halls were utilized for a large event.
Whether your event is 15 people, or 150 people, KHC staff takes pride in providing an enjoyable experience for both guests and event coordinators. If you are interested in hosting your next corporate event in one or both of the two multi-purpose rooms available, please contact Kimberly Sullivan, KHC Events Manager, for more information, and to view the facilities.
The Khowutzun Heritage Centre is open for business for your next corporate event! Please share with your networks!
