Charlene is an advocate for the people. She believes that dialogue is key to creating a better future for generations to come. A member of the Squamish Nation, Charlene was born and raised on the Capilano reserve in North Vancouver. She is dedicated to First Nation rights, reconciliation, and food sovereignty. Through her work with Reconciliation Canada, first as Community Engagement Coordinator and now Director of Program Development, Charlene works in partnership with First Nation communities across Canada facilitating workshops and community events to create a shared understanding among all Canadians.
Charlene recently established the Raven House Society, a charitable organization focusing on indigenous food insecurity. She is a board member for Kwi Awt Stelmexw, an organization that strengthens Sḵwx̱wú7mesh artistic, cultural, language, and heritage practices.