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Meet Elain Alec
wáy x̌ast sx̌əlx̌ʕált (hello good day) Elaine Alec telxnitkw (Standing by Water)is a member of the Syilx (Okanagan) and Secwépemc (Shuswap) nations
Elaine Alec is a distinguished author and Indigenous leader celebrated for her profound contributions to reconciliation and cultural education. As CEO of Naqsmist Storytellers Inc., she leads innovative educational initiatives that blend Indigenous wisdom with modern practices. Her acclaimed book, "Calling My Spirit Back", shares her journey of overcoming personal and systemic challenges, establishing her as a thought leader in reconciliation, cultural education, and trauma- informed practices.
Elaine's life and career highlight her steadfast commitment to social justice and community empowerment. Raised in a culturally rich environment, she draws inspiration from her
ancestors' teachings. Elaine is a direct descendant of hereditary chiefs from both her mother's and father's sides; her maternal grandmother was the daughter of Soorimpt
and Pelkamulaxw, and her paternal great-grandfather was Chief Basil David.
Throughout her career, Elaine has held diverse roles, including political advisor, Chief of Staff for the British Columbia Assembly of First Nations, and Community Planner for her own First Nation. She has also served in various capacities within provincial governments and
Indigenous Services Canada, focusing on promoting healing and wellness across over 150 First Nations communities in Canada.
From 2015 to 2023, Elaine was the founder and CEO of Alderhill Planning Inc., where she led efforts to integrate Indigenous Knowledges into community planning. Under her leadership, Alderhill Planning Inc. initiated significant projects such as the Path Forward Women &
Girls Safety Community Sessions, responding to the Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls’ National Inquiry's Calls for Justice In 2020, Elaine developed the Cultivating Safe Spaces (CSS) framework, an educational initiative fostering inclusive, respectful, and safe environments through training, workshops, and resources. CSS promotes emotional safety and empowerment, contributing to systemic change in policy, governance, and planning. In February 2023, Elaine founded Elaine Alec DBA Naqsmist, focusing on training and facilitation. By January 2024, she expanded her vision to establish
Naqsmist Storytellers Inc., where she now serves as CEO. Driven by respect, integrity, and the power of vulnerability, Elaine advocates for deep listening, open sharing, and creating environments where diverse voices are valued. Her advocacy spans policy development,
public speaking, and bridging gaps between Indigenous and non-Indigenous communities.