Pawa Haiyupis

Pawatsqwachiitl Haiyupis is a member of the Ahousaht First Nation on the West Coast of Vancouver Island. She is from the house of Klak-ish-piilth.

Pawa’s areas of training include First Nations Studies and Environmental Science with a focus on Traditional Ecological Knowledge, Traditional Governance and Coastal Ecology. Over the past 10 years Pawa has developed a diversity of professional skills from her work experience with First Nations people in relation to stewardship and the environment. She has a strong connection and respect for the territories and extensive knowledge about the significant role of inherent rights in the challenge to effect positive changes now and into the future.

Much of Pawa’s recent work has focused on facilitating dialogues on all aspects of governance, leadership and nation rebuilding. A major focus of her work is developing and implementing national emerging leadership programs, workshops and think tanks for youth. Pawa is committed to the Centre’s philosophy of creating new memories for our children and this philosophy guides her work at the community level.