First off, I really struggled with whether I should blog about personal issues or have anything personal about me on my website which is predominantly made to advertise my services. I have decided that the authentic me has always integrated these aspects of my life before, so I will continue to be true to this. I like relating to people not their corporate identity. I also know there are many other First Nation women facing similar challenges as I do and want to share some of my trials and tribulations in the hope it might help someone else.

I have been told several times in the past few years that many women have changed their career, started a business or have gone back to school because they were inspired when they heard my story. So I will continue to share my experiences as a First Nation woman facing transition.

The past year has been an incredible challenge for me. It’s been a year of more many firsts. It has also been a year of keeping up with birthday parties and getting the kids to school and that kind of thing. Life really does go on.

But from 23 years of having stable income to having to get out there and start a new business while being a single mom of three young girls half-time has been an immense challenge that got me way out of my comfort zone.

I am so incredibly blessed with the experience I have though, and have successfully navigated this new transition so far, Of course this has not been without hiccups and bumps in the road. This is a huge opportunity to learn about myself, what my values are and what makes me tick.

I have to thank many for supporting me in this transition. Including groups who contributed to my business start-up such as the Tsawwasseen First Nation through the TFN Economic Development Corporation by providing grants from a fund I negotiated a long time ago. Also the T’alex’exwt Capitlal corporation has provided me contributions from the federal government, it’s own’ programs and the new relationship trust. Through this support I am not getting to finalizing setting up the infrastructure to my business.

I am still assessing what my next move should be. Consulting has been rewarding, interesting and flexible. I am approached regularly about different opportunities, some more attractive then others.
Ultimately I am still honoured and humbled to be recognized as a First Nation leader – particularly in BC – in spite of lacking a political title. For this I am grateful, because although I have not yet decided what to be when I grow up, I do have much to contribute and my passion for First Nation justices and substantive equality continues.

Onwards…