Á’a:líya (A'aliya) Warbus

About Á’a:líya (A'aliya)

Personal Background

Á’a:líya (A’aliya) Warbus was born and raised in Stó:lō Territory, and has deep family roots in politics and activism, as the daughter of Former Lieutenant Governor of British Columbia Steven Lewis Point, OC OBC (Xwĕ lī qwĕl tĕl). Point (Xwĕ lī qwĕl tĕl) served as tribal chair of the Stó:lō Nation and Grand Chief of Stó:lō Tribal Council, the chiefs' representative for the Stó:lō Nation Government House, and Chief Commissioner of the British Columbia Treaty Commission.

As a mother of three children aged 13, 11, and 3, Á’a:líya is personally invested in building a better future for her family and community. Her upbringing and family life have played a crucial role in shaping her commitment to Indigenous rights, cultural preservation, and community well-being.

Educational Attainment

Á’a:líya is an alumna of the University of British Columbia, where she earned a Master of Fine Arts in Film Production. This academic journey allowed her to delve into the complexities of Indigenous identity and worldview within the context of contemporary society. This educational background has been crucial in shaping her perspectives and contributing to her expertise in the field.

Professional Experience

1. Director of Cultural Communications at Stó:lō Xwexwilmexw Government: Currently serving as the Director of Cultural Communications, Á’a:líya plays a pivotal role in facilitating communication and understanding between the Stó:lō Xwexwilmexw Government and the broader community. This position underscores her commitment to preserving and promoting Indigenous culture while engaging with various stakeholders.

2. Professor at Capilano University - Indigenous Digital Film Department: In her role as a Professor in the Indigenous Digital Film department at Capilano University, Á’a:líya contributes to the education and empowerment of the next generation of Indigenous filmmakers. Her teaching role reflects her dedication to passing on knowledge and fostering creativity within the Indigenous community.

3. Multifaceted Artist: As a filmmaker, podcast host, actor, and musician, Á’a:líya has built an extensive collection of multi-disciplinary art over the course of her career. Her work has been showcased at numerous film and music festivals, community events, and exhibits since 2005. This artistic dimension not only showcases her creativity but also serves as a powerful medium for expressing the struggles and triumphs of her people.

4. Advocacy and Community Engagement: Á’a:líya has been actively involved in advocacy work, especially in uplifting the voices of Indigenous youth. Working on the front lines, she directly engages with young individuals, amplifying their perspectives and providing support for their growth. Her commitment extends to contributing to program and media deliverables that promote success within Indigenous communities.

5. Podcasting and Online Engagement: Á’a:líya started podcasting as part of her role with Stó:lō Xwexwilmexw Government, using this platform to reflect the everyday work of her people toward sustainability and growth. The podcast also serves as an educational resource, shedding light on the history of Stó:lō language, governance, and the deep connection to the land.