Anastazia is a Dakelh/Semā:th woman residing in her nation’s territory at Nak’al Bun (Stuart Lake). On her maternal side, she belongs to the Sus’kuz Keyoh (homelands and customary territory) and is a member of the Maiyoo Keyoh society. On her paternal side, Anastazia’s father is a member of Semā:th or Sumas First Nation within the Stó:lō Nation.
Anastazia’s Indigenous experience and understanding of the world are rooted in spending time on her Keyoh. Time in the bush with the love of her grandparents has shaped her life and provided Dakelh teachings of respect, empathy, work ethic, and advocacy to protect their inherent rights.
Education and learning are an ongoing journey for Anastazia, from institutional learning to experiencing different positions in social services, environmental/wildlife monitoring, archaeological assistant fieldwork, and youth work. Anastazia holds her Certificate of Aboriginal Studies and Credits toward a BA in Anthropology and Archaeology. Anastazia’s skills include research, data cataloging, writing, and community engagement.