Tlatlasikwala First Nation’ forms public-private partnership to achieve its strategic priorities to create jobs, empower youth, and grow sustainable tourism across the Nation’s traditional territory.
Tlatlasikwala First Nation, a small community of 65 members, is creating an ecotourism start-up through a public-private partnership with Coastal Rainforest Safaris. This initiative leverages the natural beauty of the North Vancouver Island area with the rich cultural heritage of the Tlatlasikwala First Nation to create a unique culture and nature-based tourism experience.
Tlatlasikwala has engaged 4Ever Strategies, a 4VI professional services company, to provide project management as they position the start-up to be established as a sustainable, revenue-generating tourism business benefiting Tlatlasikwala First Nation for many years to come.
Island Coastal Economic Trust is investing in the start-up through the Capital and Innovation Program focus on Culture and Nature Based Tourism impact.
This new business start-up will build on the Tlatlasikwala’s strategic priority to drive economic growth and increase their presence within their traditional territory.
Economic Prosperity: Through a multi-year lease agreement established with Coastal Rainforest Safaris and visitor fees, Tlatlasikwala First Nation will create a sustainable revenue stream through this new business.
Social Empowerment: The eco-camp start-up will create substantial employment opportunities for Tlatlasikwala First Nation members, including 10 temporary construction jobs during the start-up phase, and both full-time and seasonal tourism jobs once the eco-camp is completed.
Cultural Vitality: The start-up will support cultural vitality for Tlatlasikwala members and visitors.
Outside of the peak tourism season, the camp will be used by the Tlatlasikwala First Nation for community programming to integrate cultural activities and skill development. The annual youth camp will also provide an opportunity for generational knowledge sharing and skills training for younger generations to ensure the preservation and revitalization of their culture.
Visitors will have the opportunity to learn about the Tlatlasikwala First Nation’s history, language, and traditions, fostering greater appreciation and respect for Indigenous cultures.
Climate Resiliency: The project will enhance Tlatlasikwala’s climate resiliency by generating sustainable tourism revenues from this off-grid, ecologically focused, nature-based business. Profits from the business will go back to Tlatlasikwala for reinvestment into youth development, stewardship and Guardianship efforts, and other important activities that increasing the Nation’s presence and activities across their traditional territories.
Jeff Bartlett
Communications and Impact Manager
Island Coastal Economic Trust
250-871-7797
jeff@islandcoastaltrust.ca
Calum Matthews
VP Sustainability and Strategy
4VI
250-619-2569
calum@forvi.ca
Island Coastal Economic Trust approved funding for this project in May 2024 through the Capital and Innovation program.
As we work toward inclusive and resilient economic futures, we do so with a deep appreciation for the histories, contributions, and rights of the Kwak̓wala/Bakwam’kala, Nuučaa̓nuɫ, Éy7á7juuthem, Ligwilda'xw, Pəntl'áč, She shashishalhem, Hul’q’umi’num’, diitiidʔaatx̣, SENĆOŦEN, Skwxwú7mesh, Lekwungen, and T’Sou-ke speaking peoples.
