Crystal Kootenay Thompson, President
Crystal Kootenay Thompson is a deeply connected Nēhiyaw (ᓀᐦᐃᔭᐤ) Iskwew from Kipohtakaw (Alexander First Nation), located on the traditional lands of Treaty 6. She carries the bloodlines of strong matriarchs and knowledge keepers, descended from generations of leaders who have protected, guided, and strengthened their people. As a devoted mother of two, she walks in the footsteps of her ancestors, balancing the responsibilities of family, governance, and advocacy with a deep commitment to wahkohtowin (kinship) and miyo pimātisiwin (the good life).
Rooted in the teachings of her people, Crystal is dedicated to ensuring First Nations sovereignty, governance, and social equity, particularly for urban Indigenous communities. She has served on numerous boards, committees, and task forces, always carrying forward the voices of her ancestors and those yet to come. She made history as the first Indigenous Board of Governors Representative at NorQuest College, paving the way for greater Indigenous representation in post-secondary leadership. A Registered Social Worker with an Indigenous Bachelor of Social Work, she has worked across multiple levels of government, shaping policies that reflect the realities of both on-reserve and off-reserve peoples.
Currently, as Program Manager at Native Counselling Services of Alberta, Crystal leads the development of an Indigenous-led, recovery-oriented building, while advancing culturally grounded solutions for healing and wellness and always ensuring that these healing spaces are deeply rooted in ceremony, cultural knowledge, and the wisdom of the Elders. Previously, as Urban Liaison for Kipohtakaw, she played an instrumental role in passing the First Nation’s election law, marking a significant step toward self-determination and governance. Through the strength of her lineage and the resilience passed down through generations, along with her extensive network, policy expertise, and unwavering dedication Crystal continues to walk the path of advocacy, ensuring that Indigenous peoples—wherever they reside—have access to the representation, resources, and rights they deserve.
