Elder THE-LA-ME-YÉ Shirley Alphonse is from Hul’q’umi’num People of Cowichan Nation. A respected Elder, cultural bridge-builder and truth speaker, she is a treasured educator who has has touched countless lives with her sage teachings and cultural practices.
Elder Shirley and her family were welcomed by the T’Sou-ke Nation as a spiritual leader for the T’Sou-ke Nation for 30 years she has been teaching at the preschool. In 2017, BC Premier John Horgan appointed her as the Elder to the Premier. In 2019, she made history with a smudging ceremony in the BC legislature.
Elder Shirley is often asked to provide an opening reflection or Prayer at events due to her rich knowledge of Coast Salish Teachings and Lands. Each of her Prayers are written to meet the needs of those she meets. Shirley also supports many local events and Royal Roads University faculty and students. VNFC is Honored to work alongside Shirley, who puts her heartfelt thoughts when writing all her Prayers.