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People
Gitxaała Nation Elected Governing Council
The Gitxaała Administration is governed by the Elected Gitxaała Chief and Council.
Chief Councillor - Linda Innes
As elected Chief Councilor for Gitxaała, I carry the shared responsibility to uphold and protect Ayaawx, Adaawx, and Guuġwilx’yaansks—our laws, history and inheritance that have guided our people since time immemorial. The oath of office under the Indian Act band council system does not replace our ways; it reinforces my shared duty to ensure that Gitxaała governance remains grounded in our own legal order and accountable to our people.
This commitment has been demonstrated through our Nation’s recent victory in the Mineral Tenure Act (MTA) and DRIPA case, where Gitxaała asserted our inherent authority, protected our lands and waters, and advanced the recognition of Indigenous law in provincial decision‑making. That victory reflects our collective strength and the power of our Ayaawx.
My academic and professional journey has provided the tools needed to navigate both Gitxaała and colonial governance systems, and to advocate effectively for our Nation. My educational achievements include Business Administration, Social Work and a Bachelor of Arts, with a Minor in Political Science This foundation strengthens my ability to advance Gitxaała interests in policy, governance, community development, and strategic planning.
My mandate for this term focuses on strengthening Gitxaała interest while aiming to improving the quality of life for our people. This will be done through policy reform, ensuring strategic priorities are implemented in a timely manner. Priority areas include; economic development, collaborative governance with Smgigyet, education, housing, and community development that supports infrastructure growth for housing and community assets.
With the teachings of my ancestors, the strength of our people, and the inspiration of my children and grandchildren, I will continue to work with integrity, transparency, and accountability.
Deputy Chief - Brenna Innes
Brenna Innes, a proud mother of four, belongs to the Ganhada clan, House of Dzogmgishaatks. In August 2019, she was elected to council during a by-election, bringing her dedication and expertise to Gitxaała.
Educated at the University of the Fraser Valley, Brenna holds a certificate in Indigenous Films, Maps, Rights, and Land Claims, along with an Associate of Arts Degree. Her professional journey spans the justice and health care sectors, where she has excelled in roles such as a Gladue Report Writer, Justice Coordinator, Mental Health and Addictions Worker, and Youth Worker. Through these positions, Brenna has provided invaluable support to vulnerable individuals and cultivated strong relationships across diverse backgrounds.
Passionate about promoting awareness and inclusion within the Gitxaała community, Brenna actively advocates for band opportunities and engages in political discussions. She finds joy in participating in gatherings with Gitxaała members, where they share, teach, and preserve the community’s language, traditional songs, and dances.
Brenna’s dedication is reflected in her key portfolios of Health and Justice, where she strives to make a positive impact on the well-being of Gitxaała Nation members.
Portfolios: Health & Social, Community Services, Administration
Councillor - Elliot Moody
Portfolios: GTMA, Public Works
Councillor - Joscelin Lewis
Joscelin is proud to be given the opportunity to serve our Nation as an elected council member for Gitxaala. She comes from the Ganhada Clan. She is grateful to be blessed with 4 children and 4 grandchildren.
Joscelin graduated from Prince Rupert Secondary School and has experience in administration in various roles including: Executive Assistant, Social Worker’s Assistant, Reception, Housing Clerk (Housing Managers Certificate) Payroll & Accounts Payable. She is hopeful that the experience within the organization will be very beneficial in helping develop policies/updating policies and procedures to help our nation move forward.
Joscelin is very much approachable and very open minded. She believes in teamwork, leading by example, building healthy relationships & maintaining balance. In order to do so we must work on healing & having open communication.
Joscelin enjoys traditional food harvesting with her husband, reading & watching basketball – Go Warriors Go!
Portfolios: Health & Social, Finance
Youth Councillor - Jamie Angus
Jamie Angus di waayu
Gisbutwada Di Pdeegu
Gitxaała di will waatgu
My parents are Charlotte Brown & Frank Angus Sr. My grandparents are Don Brown Sr. and the late Marjorie Brown.
Jamie has worked within Gitxaała Nation as an Education Assistant at Lach Klan School for many years and has also worked as a youth worker at the community centre. Jamie is eager to learn and is honoured to be given this opportunity to serve the nation as the youth councillor for Gitxaała.
Portfolios: GTMA, Youth, Education & Culture
Councillor - Rowena Ridley
Portfolio: Community Services, Public Works
Councillor - Gail Watkinson
Portfolio: Education & Culture