Advocacy & Support
We honour the legacies laid before us by advocating for Indigenous rights, providing direct support, and fostering opportunities for growth and healing.
Strength in Community, Power in Connection
The BC Native Women’s Association (BCNWA) exists to uplift and support Indigenous women, girls, and gender-diverse people. We create opportunities for healing, advocacy, and empowerment through culturally grounded programs, meaningful resources, and strong community connections, working to ensure Indigenous women and gender-diverse individuals across British Columbia have the support they need to thrive.
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Opening Doors to New Possibilities
At the heart of our work is a simple but powerful belief: when Indigenous women and gender-diverse individuals have the tools to heal and thrive, entire communities benefit.
Our Mission
To empower Indigenous women, gender-diverse people, and their families by providing the support, resources, and connections they need to heal and thrive.
Our Vision
A British Columbia where Indigenous women and gender-diverse people have safe and equal access to connection, support, and opportunities.
Our Mandate
We create pathways to programs and resources, forge connections to community and culture, and ensure safe, equal access to services that promote wellness and success.
A Small Step with A Big Impact
To become a member, all you need to do is complete our membership application form.
A Legacy of Advocacy & Impact
For generations, Indigenous women, girls, and gender-diverse people have led with strength, resilience, and wisdom. At the BC Native Women’s Association (BCNWA), we honor that legacy by creating spaces for healing, advocacy, and opportunity.
Our Programs
In 2019, we made history by signing an Accord with the federal government, marking a first-of-its-kind partnership that solidified our role in shaping policy and advocating for Indigenous women’s rights at a national level.
This historic Accord was a significant milestone in our journey, reaffirming our commitment to creating lasting change for Indigenous women and gender-diverse people. By working closely with the federal government, we’ve been able to directly influence policies that support the well-being and advancement of our communities. This partnership not only amplifies our voice on the national stage but also strengthens our ability to advocate for meaningful, sustainable change. Moving forward, we remain dedicated to building on this foundation, ensuring that the rights, needs, and aspirations of Indigenous people are always at the forefront of decision-making
Our Leadership
With a focus on leadership and supporting future generations, our Board of Directors guides our work with insight and responsibility, committed to our people and lands.
Gena Edwards
President
Glenda Louis
Vice President
Bernie Williams
Director at Large
Wilma Boyce
Director at Large
Coralie Gregoire
Elder
Skylar Richards
Youth Director
Rebecca Watt
Treasurer
Rae Alcock
Secretary
Leading with purpose
For Our People & For Our Future
The BCNWA is led by an all-Indigenous women Board of Directors who understand firsthand the challenges faced by Indigenous women and gender-diverse people. Our work focuses on:
- Employment & Education Support – Providing funding and resources through our ISET program, helping Indigenous women gain education, secure meaningful employment, and build strong futures.
- Community & Economic Development – Hosting meetings, workshops, and gatherings that connect Indigenous businesses, organizations, and individuals, fostering growth and collaboration.
- Advocacy & Direct Support – Championing Indigenous women’s rights, providing resources for shelters, and supporting policies that create safer communities.
Every initiative we take is about more than just offering services – it’s about creating lasting change, ensuring Indigenous women and gender-diverse people can lead with strength, security, and confidence for generations to come.
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