Director of Operations

Dede Jonasen is a member of the Gitxsan First Nation from Kitwanga, originally from Prince Rupert, BC. Since January 2024, she has served as the Director of Operations for MVAEC (Metro Vancouver Aboriginal Executive Council) and Slaxin Lelum Medicine House previously known as Metro Vancouver Indigenous Services Society (MVISS), where she is deeply engaged in supporting Urban Indigenous People.

She enjoys working with a dedicated and caring team, and she finds daily inspiration in learning about culture and ceremony. The work constantly challenges her to give her best in supporting the community. While she didn’t grow up immersed in her culture, Dede has invaluable experiences she has gained working with Indigenous organizations in Metro Vancouver over the past 12 years, including the First Nations Health Authority, Tsleil-Waututh Nation, and MVAEC.

Dede also completed the Indigenous Community Support program at Native Education College/Douglas College, which has provided her with a strong foundation to build upon in her role.