Empowering Indigenous Communities Through Unity & Action

he Northern First Nations Alliance (NFNA) is a collective of Indigenous Nations working together to address housing, employment, education, and health disparities in Northwest British Columbia.

Overview

The Northern First Nations Alliance (NFNA) unites North West First Nations to address shared challenges and opportunities in Northwest British Columbia. It represents nine Indigenous communities: Ging̱olx, Gitanyow, Gitlax̱t’aamiks, Gitxaala, Gitwinksihlkw, Haisla, Kitselas, Kitsumkalum, and Lax̱g̱altsʼap.

Indigenous communities
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People that NFNA’s collective representation
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With a collective representation of 12,500 individuals, NFNA focuses on collaborative action to improve social determinants of health. Its programs and initiatives center around four pillars:

  • Education, Employment & Training – Building skills and career pathways.
  • Health & Wellness – Enhancing access to culturally sensitive healthcare.
  • Housing – Advocating for safe, affordable, and culturally appropriate living spaces.
  • Youth & Elders – Empowering future leaders while honoring traditional wisdom.
 

Founded in March 2020, NFNA envisions stronger, self-sustaining communities. It leads initiatives such as the Health & Wellness / Detox Centre in Terrace, BC, to address critical gaps in healthcare services for Indigenous youth, women, men, Elders, 2SLGBTQ+ individuals, and families.

Our Mission

Our core mission is to improve the quality of life for our communities by addressing social, economic, and health disparities through collaboration, innovation, and culturally appropriate solutions.

Our Vision

We envision thriving Nations where every individual has the opportunity to achieve their fullest potential, guided by the principles of respect, inclusivity, and sustainability.

Timeline Overview

NFNA History & Growth

The Northern First Nations Alliance (NFNA) was formally established in 2020 as a collaborative initiative between five Nations—Haisla, Nisga’a, Tsimshian, Gitxaala, and Gitxsan. It established itself as an incorporated society on August 5, 2022.

The NFNA was created to address critical social disparities and to advocate for the needs of our communities through shared leadership and a collective approach. Rooted in cultural values and community-driven solutions, the organization has evolved into a vital network that fosters regional development and promotes equitable access to resources and opportunities.

NFNA MILESTONES

July 2021

Statement of Readiness submitted to FNHA.

June 2022

Community Asset Mapping completed; hired local navigators for a comprehensive resource catalogue.

July 2022

Strategic planning concluded; committees officially established.

October 2022

Feasibility Study completed.

October 2023

NFNA signed a tripartite agreement with FNHA and NHA overseen by the Ministry of Mental Health and Addictions.

Meet Our Team

Board of Directors

Brenna Innes

NFNA Board Chair and Deputy Chief of Gitxaala

Chief Crystal Smith

NFNA Vice Chair and elected Chief of Haisla

Geneva Mason

NFNA Secretary/Treasurer and Councillor of Kitselas

Madame President Eva Clayton

NFNA Director and elected President of Nisga’a Lisims Government

Manon Joice

Operations Manager

Health & Wellness

Employment, Education Training & Housing

Our Motto

Get in Touch

We’re here to assist you with any questions or comments.