Crystal Matilpi

• Overview:

Oversaw the Wuikinuxv Nation Education Department, supporting students of all ages in achieving long-term educational goals. Provided leadership for Wànukv q̓àq̓utha'ailasl (Nation-operated school) and coordinated services across Elementary, Secondary (in and out of community), Post-Secondary, Vocational Education, and Employment Training.

Key Responsibilities:

Elementary & Secondary Education Services

• Collaborated with teachers to deliver tutoring and academic support to students in need.
• Supported the development of in-community high school programming.
• Advocated for educational support through Jordan's Principle for community students.

Post-Secondary Education Services

• Managed intake and processing of post-secondary student applications.
• Maintained budgets and prepared funding reports for Wuikinuxv Nation Administration and Indigenous Services Canada (ISC).

Employment Training Services

• Organized skill-building training courses for community members.
• Secured funding from various sources to support training initiatives.

Budgeting & Reporting

• Created work plans and budgets for funding applications throughout the fiscal year.
• Maintained student records and managed financial disbursements for post-secondary education (e.g., tuition, books, living expenses).
• Prepared nominal roll registry reports for ISC.

Meetings & Communication

• Participated in regular management, staff, and education committee meetings.
• Led monthly Education Committee meetings to review applications and address community concerns.
• Coordinated with other departments for community events and initiatives.

Training & Proposal Development

• Attended education conferences to enhance professional development and stay informed on First Nations education initiatives.
• Authored and submitted funding proposals to support educational programming.
• Led planning and implementation of the Wuikinuxv Summer Work Experience Program and student summer activities.

Cultural Leader / Youth Dance Coordinator, Wuikinuxv Nation, British Columbia, Dates of Involvement: 2023 – Present.

Key Responsibilities and Contributions:

• Provided cultural leadership through the coordination and mentorship of the Wuikinuxv youth dance group for three years, fostering pride, discipline, and intergenerational connection.
• Built strong relationships with youth by teaching traditional Wuikinuxv songs, dances, and storytelling, creating safe and empowering spaces for cultural expression.
• Actively supported the revitalization of Wuikinuxv culture through community engagement and youth programming.
• Served as a natural leader and role model, continuously learning and growing within the role to better serve the cultural needs of the community.
• Collaborated with Elders and cultural knowledge holders to ensure teachings are rooted in Wuikinuxv traditions and values.
• Contributed to the development of culturally grounded programming that strengthens identity, and supports intergenerational transmission of knowledge.