Mary-Jo Michell

Program Coordinator, Fellowships and Indigenous Engagement

Indigenous-led conservation

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cíycetqʷúʔ is my name but today they call me Mary-Jo Michell, I am Nlaka'pamux from T'eqt'aqtnmx

I am a proud member of the Nlaka'pamux Nation, raised by my ancestors to be a record keeper, a voice, and a protector of our lands, culture and language of the Nlaka'pamux Nation. I believe all life, lands, and waters are sacred, and that we as human beings all have the responsibility to seek harmony with the earth and all who dwell here in the past, present, and future.

As Program Coordinator of Fellowships and Indigenous Engagement with WCS Canada, I'm assisting with the coordination of two national fellowship programs and support a number WCS Canada Projects and Indigenous engagements. Prior to this position, I was one of two inaugural fellows of the First Nations Women Transforming Conservation (2025-2026), served as an elected councilor for four years and held the position of Lands and Culture Coordinator for 3 years with Kanaka Bar Indian Band.

I am passionate about protecting land, water, and all our relatives seen and unseen here on earth and bridging Indigenous knowledge with western science all while continuing to learn, share, experience and embrace life as it comes.