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January 31, 2025

27th ITBC Annual General Meeting (AGM 2024) and Indigenous Tourism Gathering

Celebrating Our Commitment to Indigenous Tourism

On November 4-5, 2024, on the shared territory of the Sḵwx̱wú7mesh (Squamish), səlilwətaɬ (Tsleil-Waututh), and xʷməθkʷəy̓əm (Musqueam) Nations, Indigenous Tourism BC (ITBC) welcomed 102 attendees, including ITBC Stakeholders, Partners, and First Nations Community Members to our 27th Annual General Meeting (AGM) at the Coast Coal Harbour Hotel in Vancouver.

This year’s AGM was a powerful gathering filled with insightful discussions, knowledge sharing, and meaningful networking. It underscored our shared commitment to advancing Indigenous tourism across British Columbia. Each session, presentation, and conversation highlighted the remarkable dedication of our community and the transformative growth of Indigenous tourism, creating positive impacts for First Nations communities across the province.

CULTURAL WELCOME AND OPENING REMARKS

The AGM started with cultural protocols, including a warm welcome, drumming, and traditional songs led by Willie Lewis of Sḵwx̱wú7mesh (Squamish), Nicholas Kofi of səlilwətaɬ (Tsleil-Waututh), and Alec Guerin of xʷməθkʷəy̓əm (Musqueam) Nations. 

ITBC Chair Brenda Baptiste opened the event before handing the reins to ITBC Social Media & Digital Strategy Manager Deanna Wampler, who served as the Master of Ceremonies for the two-day event.

ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING HIGHLIGHTS

Chief Financial Officer Henry Tso confirmed a quorum of 43 voting members (Tier 3 and Tier 4 Stakeholders) who approved the 2024 Annual Report, Financial Statement, and appointment of auditors.

This session included the announcement of ITBC’s newly elected board members, led by Chief Electoral Officer Allison Colthorp. ITBC thanked returning Board of Directors members for their dedicated service and welcomed all new members to the House of Tyee.

ITBC also honoured George Taylor, former board member and esteemed First Nations cultural leader, for his years of service.  Brenda Baptiste, ITBC Chair, expressed, “George Taylor’s lifelong commitment to preserving and sharing the culture of the Kwakwaka’wakw Nation and Canada’s First Nations is truly inspiring. His efforts have brought the rich traditions of song, dance, and storytelling to audiences worldwide while creating meaningful opportunities for Indigenous youth to connect with their heritage. His leadership, vision, and dedication to showcasing the beauty of Indigenous culture have earned him deep respect in the tourism industry and beyond. We are proud to honour George’s contributions and his steadfast commitment to Reconciliation, education, and cultural pride”.

ITBC expresses heartfelt gratitude to George and his wife, Melanie Taylor, for their many years of dedication and meaningful contributions to Indigenous tourism. Their commitment has left a lasting impact on the industry and the communities they serve.

Meet Your Board

At-large

Kootenay Rockies Director

Thompson Okanagan Director

Vancouver, Coast & Mountains Director

Returning Board Members

ITBC expressed gratitude to departing board members Kukpi7 Frank Antoine (At-large, Moccasin Trails), Savannah Nadeau (Kootenay Rockies, St. Eugene Resort Hotel), and Paul Natrall (At-large, Mr. Bannock) for their outstanding service and commitment.

Brenda Baptiste

Director At-large, Nk’Mip Campground, Nk’Mip Desert Cultural Centre, Nk’Mip Cellars

Sharon Bond

Director At-Large, Kekuli Cafe

Alison Evans

Director At-large, Gulf Island Seaplanes, Nanaimo BC

Maria Clark

Director at-Large, Best Western at Tin Wis

Leanna Gravelle

Director for the Kootenay Rockies Region, St. Eugene Resort Hotel

Desiree Baker

Director for the Thompson Okanagan Region, Grandpa's Heart at Nicklen Lake

Lori Simcox

Director for the Vancouver, Coast and Mountains Region, Takaya Tours

Jenna Bower

Director At-large, Nk’Mip Desert Cultural Centre

Elijah Mack

Director At-Large - Kekuli Cafe Merritt & Kamloops

Chyanne Trenholm

Director for the Vancouver Island Region, Homalco Wildlife and Cultural Tours

Kathy Brown

Director For Cariboo Chilcotin Coast Region - SeeQuest Development

Leslie Brown

Director for the Northern BC Region, Davidson’s Descendants

Brenda Baptiste

Director At-large, Nk’Mip Campground, Nk’Mip Desert Cultural Centre, Nk’Mip Cellars

Brenda worked with OIB on the marketing and development of Nk’ mip Desert Cultural Centre and was responsible for project planning, product and program development, marketing, fundraising, and management of the 12 million dollar capital project.

Brenda was Director, Aboriginal Business Showcase for the Four Host Nations at the 2010 Olympics. She has also held the position of Chief Administration Officer for the Tsleil Waututh First Nation, where she worked with the leadership, staff, and community in the areas of economic, social, and community development, and administration and governance. Brenda actively promotes tourism as a foundation for socio-economic development for Indigenous communities.

Sharon Bond

Director At-Large, Kekuli Cafe

The recent sale of Kekuli Cafe Merritt makes Kekuli the first Indigenous restaurant franchise in Canada, with many more franchises to come. Sharon shares her Nlaka’pamux heritage and traditions at Kekuli, to educate the public, create a welcoming environment, and bring Indigenous foods and tourism offerings to the public. She offers her passion, perseverance, knowledge of business start-ups, outside-the-box thinking, and strong sense of sustainable and social responsibility to Indigenous Tourism BC.

 

Alison Evans

Director At-large, Gulf Island Seaplanes, Nanaimo BC

Alison Evans, from the Hagwilget Village First Nation, brings a deep commitment to fostering connections and partnerships with Indigenous businesses, communities, and networks. As co-owner of Gulf Island Seaplanes, she is dedicated to creating an inclusive and welcoming travel experience, ensuring every passenger feels valued from when they book their trip to when they reach their destination.

Passionate about Indigenous tourism, Alison is driven by the positive narratives and cultural storytelling that this sector contributes to reconciliation within BC, Canada, and beyond. Her experiences collaborating with Indigenous Tourism BC (ITBC) have further fueled her belief in the power of Indigenous tourism to promote understanding, respect, and meaningful cultural exchanges. Alison is excited to continue her journey, contributing to the growth and impact of Indigenous tourism as a vital, uplifting force for all.

Maria Clark

Director at-Large, Best Western at Tin Wis

Maria is a longstanding Tofino local with family ties to the land. As the Assistant General Manager at Tin Wis Best Western, Maria prides herself on the many hats she wears at Tin Wis. She plays an integral role in the guest experience, leading a staff of 75 and overseeing many day-to-day operations. Maria is currently completing a Human Resource Certification from Cornell University and holds numerous certifications through Best Western International University and professional associations.

During her tenure at Tis Wis Resort, Maria has advanced through a number of key roles and received an Award of Excellence for Housekeeping. Maria is grateful to call Tofino home, and she finds joy in sharing its history with visitors from across the globe.

Maria’s is on a new chapter in life with grown children and new grandchildren, her time is dedicated to discovering untraveled places on the Island and in BC.

Leanna Gravelle

Director for the Kootenay Rockies Region, St. Eugene Resort Hotel

Kiʔsuʔk kyuyit q̓api niskiⱡ, suʔkni ku ʔupxnaⱡaʔni Hu qakⱡik Leanna Gravelle. ʔaⱡ ka ʔa·knik̓ n̓ini Roberta ȼ Pat Gravelle, ʔaⱡ ka·kuk̓pukam n̓ini Mary Louise Mission ȼ Anne ȼ Alexander Gravelle, ka ʔaȼmiⱡ Joe and Helen Mission ȼ Catherine and Ambrose Gravelle.

I am Leanna Gravelle; my parents are Roberta and Pat Gravelle, my grandparents are Mary-Louise Mission and Annie and Alexander Gravelle, and my great-grandparents are Joe and Helen Mission and Catherine and Ambrose Gravelle.

Leanna Gravelle, from Ktunaxa/Yaq̓it ʔa·knuqⱡi’it First Nation, brings a wealth of experience to ITBC, from her role as Director of Operations and Programming at the Ktunaxa Interpretive Centre for the Ⱡkamnin̓tik Children’s Truth and Reconciliation Society, located within the St. Eugene’s Golf Resort and Casino. For over 24 years, she has been a Board Member and Bare Trustee with the St. Eugene Mission Development Corporation, working to share Ktunaxa culture, language, knowledge, and history with diverse audiences, including resort guests, students, corporate groups, and industry professionals. Her role involves developing programs and experiences that support Ktunaxa youth, Elders, and knowledge carriers, fostering pride in their heritage and enhancing their understanding of Indigenous identities.

Her background includes extensive leadership experience as a Councillor for the Tobacco Plains Indian Band and chair of the Tobacco Plains Development Corporation and nearly 20 years in Social Development and Education roles within her community. She has also contributed significantly to the Ktunaxa Nation’s Traditional Knowledge, Language, Education, and Employment sectors and has taught the Ktunaxa language at the College of the Rockies (COTR).

Leanna’s dedication to Indigenous tourism is driven by her understanding of its role in strengthening Nations and fostering partnerships. Through her broad expertise in strategic planning and development, she will continue to guide Indigenous tourism in British Columbia, promoting the sharing of Indigenous histories and languages for future generations.

 

Desiree Baker

Director for the Thompson Okanagan Region, Grandpa's Heart at Nicklen Lake

Desiree Baker, a proud member of the ‘Namgis First Nation (Alert Bay, B.C.), brings a wealth of experience and dedication to Indigenous Tourism BC’s Board of Directors. Raised by her adopted family in the Fraser Valley, Desiree now splits her time between the Okanagan and Fraser Valley. She is a devoted daughter, mother, grandmother, and auntie, deeply connected to her family and community.

Desiree’s company, REV, thrives on her profound understanding of cultural protocols and the complexities of First Nations governance and relationships. With over 30 years of experience across Community and Economic Development, Health Services, Child & Family Services, Business Services, and Tourism, she is a trusted leader and advocate within Indigenous and government sectors. Her work is centered on building relationships and empowering First Nation communities, government entities, and health authorities.

Desiree has spent the past three years collaborating with Destination BC, where she has written grants supporting 54 First Nations communities in the Vancouver Coast and Mountains region. As an approved business consultant with Indigenous Tourism BC, Desiree has also developed strategic business plans, including a 30-page proposal that secured Bonaparte First Nation’s management of Historic Hat Creek Ranch and McAbee Fossil Beds.

Lori Simcox

Director for the Vancouver, Coast and Mountains Region, Takaya Tours

Lori sat on the technical working board for the Four Host First Nations Olympic Secretariat and volunteered with Start-Up Canada. She was involved in the development of Takaya Tours Inc., an award-winning tourism business, and in teaching a course on Indigenous Tourism at the Canadian Tourism College in Vancouver.  She is appointed to the Board of Governors of Royal Roads University.   She currently operates Spal General Constructors Corp. as CEO and is co-owner of Unity Clothing Inc. in North Vancouver.

Jenna Bower

Director At-large, Nk’Mip Desert Cultural Centre

Throughout high school and University Jenna has always worked in tourism. During the summers in high school she worked in a variety of tourism jobs during the week, and on the weekends Jenna was on the Field Hockey BC provincial team. Jenna’s first job was working the front desk at the Nk’Mip Campground and RV Park, answering phones, booking reservations and doing site checks. The following summer she moved to the Campground store to work in retail for three years. Jenna assisted in ordering new product, taking count of existing product, and performed cash out duties. From there she went to work for Spirit Beach Watersports for two years where she coordinated bookings, handled contracts for boat rentals, and did end of the day paperwork. Jenna has also worked in the restaurant industry, as a server at the Spirit Ridge Resort restaurant and the Spirit Beach Cantina. While Jenna was attending University, she played on the Varsity Field Hockey team, volunteered at the Children’s Hospital, and in the summers, she worked for the Nk’Mip Desert Cultural Centre (NDCC). Jenna started as an interpreter where she directed guided walks, handled snakes, and performed cultural programs such as sukʷnaʔqin traditional dancing, singing, drumming and powwow dancing of jingle and fancy. Once Jenna graduated University in 2020 with a BA in International Indigenous Studies with a minor in Law and Society, she was hired as the Cultural Coordinator at NDCC. Where she trains and assists interpreters, supervises day to day operations, organizes fundraising events, and assists in retail with orders. Jenna also works with sukʷnaʔqinx elders on nsyilxcən language documentation, transcribing and historical accuracy. Jenna has consulted and edited works for the town of Oliver, Osoyoos, Thompson Rivers University, and On This Spot Historical Tours. She has conducted cultural sensitivity training for non-Indigenous people. As current Cultural Coordinator and now Manager in Training, Jenna is taking the lead of designing the interpretive cultural experiences at NDCC. Through leading the design of the new replicated sukʷnaʔqin Okanagan village and pit house, cultural knowledge and accuracy is her number one priority. The Oliver and District Heritage Society approached Jenna at NDCC to be a consultant on a historical book forOliver called 100×100. Through multiple meetings and edits of their book, and by insuring the cultural and historical accuracy through upholding sukʷnaʔqin oral histories, on behalf of the Osoyoos Indian Band, they made her co-editor of the book (currently in print). Jenna was also recently hired by the Okanagan Nation Alliance Fisheries as Head Researcher to work with elders, collect data and write a report on the Cultural Significance of Chinook Salmon. Upholding the sukʷnaʔqin traditions, culture, knowledge and language has always been Jenna’s highest priority. Her passion is learning from her elders and speaking her Native language, nsyilxcən. To further this passion she has been committed to further her knowledge of nsyilxcən through two four year language cohorts. One is with the OIB language house; Jenna is on her third year and has received 4 certificates with over 700 hours of fluency. In the second cohort, partnered with NVIT, the Enowkin Centre and University of British Columbia Okanagan, she has obtained her language Certificate and is currently a teacher’s assistant, while receiving her language Diploma. After the Diploma, Jenna will continue for two more years and receive her Bachelor of Nsyilxcən Language Fluency Degree at UBCO with aspirations of obtaining her Masters.

Jenna has a passion for learning and sharing sukʷnaʔqin language and culture with her community and with non-Indigenous people, and the way to do this is through Indigenous tourism.

Elijah Mack

Director At-Large - Kekuli Cafe Merritt & Kamloops

Recipient of “Youth Entrepreneur of the Year” 2019 ANTCO. Recipient of “Young Indigenous Business of the Year” 2021 for BC Achievement Foundation. 27 year old Indigenous Leader from Nuxalk Nation, and I am the owner/operator of Kekuli Cafe in Merritt and Kamloops. 

Dedication and leadership have driven my success over the last decade. From being the first Indigenous Cuisine Franchise in Canada at 22, to being the President of BC Association of Aboriginal Friendship Centres at 25. I have had the opportunity to create safe spaces for our young aspiring indigenous people. Including hosting Gathering our Voices 2016-2023, and being a co-developer for an MBA in Advanced Reconciliation through UVic. 

Indigenous Governance, Youth mentorship, Leadership Training, Cultural Gatherings, Reconciliation implementations, and Economic Development. These are a few skillsets that all coincide with the work I will bring to Indigenous Tourism of BC. I believe that our Youth are not the leaders of tomorrow, they are the leaders of today. If we are thinking of tomorrow, it’s already too late. 

Chyanne Trenholm

Director for the Vancouver Island Region, Homalco Wildlife and Cultural Tours

With a Bachelor of Tourism Management and a Minor in Recreation from Vancouver Island University, Chyanne’s passion is for creating capacity within Indigenous communities through tourism development while aiding in cultural revitalization. Chyanne is the Office Manager for her Nations award – winning ecotourism business, Homalco Wildlife & Cultural Tours, which welcomes visitors to experience the traditional lands of the Homalco people in Bute Inlet, BC.

Kathy Brown

Director For Cariboo Chilcotin Coast Region - SeeQuest Development

Kathy is Nuu Chah Nulth married into and a member of the Heiltsuk First Nation; and mother of four beautiful children. As an experienced educator, coach, mentor, and certified life skills instructor, I remain committed to being a lifelong learner.

She completed the Indigenous Corporate Relations and Knowledge Management programs Royal Roads University. In addition I have attained certificates in tourism programs through Malaspina College, (VIU) and other managerial and computer courses through PBS in Vancouver. All of which helped become founder and creator of the Bella Bella Business Service Centre, Bella Bella Call Centre, http://www.nalaservices.com/

Kathy taught at the Heiltsuk College in Bella Bella for several years. She has supported and been a participant on the tribal journeys for the past seven years. She enjoys canoeing and being out on the water.

Leslie Brown

Director for the Northern BC Region, Davidson’s Descendants

Leslie Brown, born and raised on Haida Gwaii, is a dedicated small business owner who, along with her family, operates a family-owned business on the islands. Deeply engaged in her community, Leslie has contributed her leadership by serving on both the Council of the Haida Nation and the Old Massett Village Council. Her experience offers valuable insight into how Boards and Administration can collaborate effectively toward a shared vision.

With a strong commitment to the growth of her business and her contributions to the Tourism Industry on Haida Gwaii, Leslie brings a fresh perspective as a business owner, having previously worked on the administrative side. Her background enables her to bridge business and governance, furthering the region’s economic and cultural development.

ITBC LOOKING FORWARD: INITIATIVES AND REGIONAL UPDATES

ITBC Chief Marketing and Development Officer Paula Amos and Chief Finance Officer Henry Tso shared an introductory update on year two of ITBC’s Five-Year Strategy 2023-2028: Strengthening Our Roots and Branches.

Key projects include: 

  • The re-launch of Authentic Indigenous shared by ITBC Stakeholder Manager Jessie Penner
  • Indigenous Tourism Training Initiative updates from Corporate Services Manager Chatman Shaw
  • Brenda Baptiste, ITBC Chair, announced that ITBC will be leading the development of the BC First Nations-led Tourism Destination Fund, a community-led and managed fund unanimously supported by the Union of British Columbia Indian Chiefs, the First Nations Summit Chiefs, and the BC Assembly of First Nations.
  • The session was followed by regional updates from the ITBC Regional Indigenous Tourism Specialists (RITS) team. The eight-person team provided insights into regional successes, challenges, and the a-ha moments they experienced, reinforcing ITBC’s dedication to supporting diverse community needs across BC.

INSPIRING PANEL AND NETWORKING EVENING

A panel moderated by ITBC Senior Writer Kerry Eno explored First Nations Community Perspectives on Tourism with Kukpi7 Hank Adams (Stswecem’c Xget’tem First Nation), Kukpi7 Frank Antoine (Bonaparte First Nation), Devin Rogers (SXDC Ltd.) and Leanna Gravelle (Ktunaxa Interpretive Centre for the Ⱡkamnin̓tik Children’s Truth and Reconciliation Society). The discussion highlighted their experiences and strategies for balancing tourism development with community values, economic interests and other big-picture interests like reconciliation and governance, meaningful partnerships, and creating opportunities for future generations.

A lively networking event featured food, mocktails, and music by DJ O Show, where ITBC Communications & Engagement Manager Jordie Johnson provided updates on Indigenous Inclusion in the Invest in Iconics Strategy.

DAY TWO: PRESENTATIONS AND CREATIVE SESSIONS

The second day commenced with opening remarks from ITBC Chair Brenda Baptiste, followed by a series of presentations that highlighted key developments and insights.

  • ITBC Brand Refinement shared by Jared Gill from 123w, unveiling ITBC’s refreshed mission and vision statements
  • The Avatrixx Methodology: Harmony Across Multiple Dimensions by Cowboy Smithx (Award-winning filmmaker of Blackfoot from Piikani & Kainai Tribes of Southern Alberta.) explored how his Avatriix Methodology has shaped his creative work, integrating traditional Indigenous narratives with modern media to amplify stories honouring culture and community.

The morning concluded with a panel discussion entitled Strategies that Fit: Tailoring Marketing Strategies to your Brand, moderated by Deanna Wampler (ITBC Social Media & Digital Strategy Manager) with panellists Inez Cook (Co-Founder, Salmon n’ Bannock Bistro + SnB on the Fly), Chris Tait (Tourism Manager, Klahoose Wilderness Resort, Klahoose Coastal Adventures & Gorge Harbour Marina Resort), and Joleen Mitton (Founder and Creative Director, Vancouver Indigenous Fashion Week). This panel brought together Indigenous-owned businesses and discussed how marketing strategies align with the identity of each brand. The discussion focused on how these approaches help Indigenous businesses grow, increase visibility, connect with audiences, and foster stronger connections with local and global markets.

Following a lunch break, Darian Kovacs (Partner, Jelly Marketing & PR + Jelly Academy) presented How to Get Media Coverage, which examined best practices for telling digital stories and engaging with media and audiences. Darian emphasized the importance of authentic storytelling, building solid media relationships, and leveraging digital platforms to enhance brand visibility. His insights provided valuable tools for Indigenous tourism businesses to grow their presence and engage with the public in meaningful, impactful ways.

Patrick Lucas, from the  Indigenous Youth Mountain Bike Program, shared the final presentation on Eco-Tourism and Trails. Patrick presented the growing interest in Indigenous-led eco-tourism and hiking activities. He shared his extensive experience supporting First Nations across BC in planning, building, and maintaining high-quality nature trails that promote healthy, active living and eco-tourism initiatives.

Brenda Baptiste’s closing remarks capped off the AGM, followed by a preview of Vancouver Indigenous Fashion Week led by Joleen Mitton, the Founder and Creative Director of Vancouver Indigenous Fashion Week.

 

LOOKING FORWARD

As we conclude our 27th Annual General Meeting and Indigenous Tourism Gathering, we reflect on nearly three decades of growth and accomplishment. Together, we have established a thriving foundation for Indigenous tourism in British Columbia that is celebrated both here and around the world.

Our heartfelt gratitude goes out to our Staff, valued Stakeholders, committed Partners, and the travellers who seek out Indigenous experiences in BC. Your support has been instrumental in shaping Indigenous tourism in BC into what it is today.

As we look forward to the next 25 years, we see boundless potential for Indigenous tourism. May this journey bring even greater strength, joy, and success to all who share our vision for a sustainable, culturally authentic Indigenous tourism industry that enriches the health and well-being of the land and its people.

 

📸 Photo credit: Point Blank Photo