Economic development in Nuu-Chah-Nulth Tribal Council, British Columbia
This International Women’s History Month, we are proud to celebrate the achievements of President Dr. Judith Sayers as leader of the Nuu-Chah-Nulth Tribal Council. Her leadership amongst 14 different First Nations has fueled housing growth and economic progress in the communities she serves.
Dr. Sayers is a respected B.C. First Nations leader, academic, lawyer, and sustainability advocate for decades. In addition to leading 14 First Nations communities across the west coast of Vancouver Island, Dr. Sayers is also an Officer of the Order of Canada.
As the tribal leader of the Nuu-Chah-Nulth Tribal Council, Dr. Sayers had a vision of empowering the First Nations economically. Thirty years ago, the Tribal council faced difficulties securing financing because of complex barriers created by vestiges of the Indian Act of 1876. Dr. Sayers shares her experiences partnering with BMO’s Indigenous Banking Unit as the first financial institution to bring services to support the economic empowerment of Indigenous communities. Through this 30-year partnership, the Nuu-Chah-Nulth Tribal Council and Dr. Sayers have partnered to drive economic growth in their region.
“We’re honoured to partner with the Nuu-Chah-Nulth Tribal Council to support Indigenous economic progress. In commemoration of Women’s History month, and International Women’s Day, Dr. Judith Sayers is a profound leader for her community. Our community partnership with the Nuu-Chah-Nulth Tribal Council continues to play a vital role in advancing their community economically and amplifies BMO’s commitment to boldly growing the good in business and in life.”
– Clio Straram
Head Indigenous Banking Unit
BMO is a leader in driving financial progress, equity and eliminating barriers to inclusion in partnership with Indigenous Peoples across North America. We are committed to investing in Indigenous businesses, communities, and colleagues to build a path for growth and prosperity to advance reconciliation and self-determination for all Indigenous Peoples. Learn more about BMO’s commitment to Indigenous Peoples in Wîcihitowin, our 2022 Indigenous Partnerships and Progress Report.
