Assembly of First Nations National Chief Atleo is part of a new generation bringing a new perspective to First Nation issues across the country.
Please join us on Monday, April 11th when, with a clear focus on the future, National Chief Atleo will identify the opportunity and the urgent need to work together to support bold and innovative approaches to improve education and economic outcomes. National Chief Atleo maintains that change can and must be achieved in our lifetime and sets out a specific challenge to all Canadians, First Nations, industry and governments.
National Chief Shawn A-in-chut Atleo is a Hereditary Chief from the Ahousaht First Nation. In July 2009, A-in-chut was elected to a three year mandate as National Chief to the Assembly of First Nations. The Assembly of First Nations is the national political advocacy organization mandated and directed by the six hundred and thirty three First Nation Governments across Canada.
Previously A-in-chut served two consecutive three-year terms as Regional Chief elected by the 203 Chiefs of British Columbia. In his six years as Regional Chief, he led several important efforts to bridge dialogue among and within First Nations as well as with local, provincial and federal governments, industry and others to advance First Nation rights and economic interests. Working nationally and internationally. A-in-chut has participated on several international delegations as well as specifically with relation to the UN Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples and has led work domestically on the pursuit of reforms to the comprehensive and specific claims processes, and coordinating fisheries policy change relating to both coastal and inland fisheries.
In March 2005, A-in-chut facilitated the signing of the historic Leadership Accord with the political executives of the Union of BC Indian Chiefs and the First Nations Summit, effectively overcoming decades of discord in British Columbia.
In 2008, A-in-chut’s commitment to education was recognized in his appointment as Chancellor of Vancouver Island University, becoming BC’s first aboriginal Chancellor and again in 2010 when he was awarded an honorary degree, Doctor of Education from Nipissing University in Ontario.
A-in-chut graduated in 2003 with a Masters of Education in Adult Learning and Global Change from the University of Technology, Sydney Australia (in partnership with University of British Columbia, University of the Western Cape South Africa, and University of Linkoping Sweden). A-in-chut is supported by and gains strength from his partner of 24 years Nancy and their two adult children, Tyson and Tara. Traditional teachings have guided A-in-chut to serve First Nations as a leader, facilitator, mediator, planner and teacher.
***
Will you require special assistance at one of our events? Click HERE to learn about our Accessibility services and policy.
