Racelle Kooy grew up with a deep love for salmon, the Pacific Ocean and the mighty cedar forests. Of Secwepemc, St’atl’imc and Dutch ancestry, she is a member of Samahquam First Nation with strong family ties to Stswecem’c Xgat’tem. Racelle has dedicated her professional talents to strengthening opportunities for Indigenous Peoples and communities. She has 20 years of expertise in communications, government, and media relations. She is a trusted advisor with strong analytical skills, adept at counselling leadership in advancing organizations. As a community engagement specialist, she is attuned to both the opportunities and the challenges that Indigenous Peoples in Canada face. Racelle has respectfully represented First Nations People and cultures to the world in English, French, and Spanish at regional, national, and global platforms like the Cannes International Film Festival and the inaugural live broadcast launch of Aboriginal People’s Television Network. She enjoys working directly with communities as well as collaborating with national organizations, such as the Assembly of First Nations and the Indspire Foundation. She stays grounded through her ancestral First Nation spiritual practices and as a powwow dancer. She finds great joy in instigating a round of belly laughs and “aha” moments of exchanges with others.