Cultural Worker/Facilitator

Rachelle George, whose ancestral name is Kwaltenaat, is of Squamish, Tsleil-Waututh, and Okanagan descent. She was raised on the Tsleil-Waututh Reservation. A member of the Children of Takaya, a traditional performing group founded by her great-grandfather, Chief Dan George, Rachelle continues her family’s legacy of cultural and spiritual practices, including war canoe racing with the Salish Serpent Canoe Club.

Immersed in Coast Salish and Plains spiritual practices from a young age, she is a pipe carrier, skilled in leading water ceremonies and using her medicines for healing. Deeply rooted in Coast Salish Longhouse teachings, she practices drumming, singing, fasting, and cedar brushings. Rachelle is married to John Joseph of Squamish Nation and has an emotional support animal, Winnie.

As a cultural worker and facilitator at Slaxin Lelum, Rachelle develops harm reduction strategies to address the impacts of colonization and trauma, and leads the Wellbriety Group to support individuals struggling with substance abuse. Her work is centered in decolonization, using prayers, spiritual practices, and cultural wellness to help Indigenous peoples reclaim their self-identity and confidence.

Passionate about the healing power of laughter, Rachelle’s approach focuses on nurturing strengths and empowering others on their healing journey, bringing her own medicine to her work with deep commitment and care.