Elaine Alec, a member of the Syilx and Secwepemc Nations and founder of Naqsmist, has spent over two decades fostering healing and wellness in communities across Canada. Her commitment to indigenous planning processes and community impact has made her a nationally-recognized figure, earning her the BCBusiness Magazine’s 2023 Women of the Year Award for Equity and Inclusion Champion.
In a recent interview, Alec shares her journey from publishing her first book, “Calling My Spirit Back,” to founding Naqsmist. Inspired by her experiences of violence in indigenous communities, Alec felt a responsibility to write her book as a guide for facilitators keen on working towards healing and wellness. Emphasizing the importance of rigorous honesty and vulnerability, she believes her approach in addressing difficult topics is key to engaging readers.
Her greatest achievement, according to Alec, is her sobriety, which has been instrumental in her success both personally and professionally. This self-understanding and love also underpins her success as an entrepreneur.
Launched in February, Naqsmist, meaning “many coming together as one,” focuses on addressing trauma, grief, and mental health issues amplified by the COVID-19 pandemic. Alec explains the goal is to help people navigate decision-making spaces without being controlled by their trauma, moving from fear-based to trust-based decisions.
The long-term vision for Naqsmist is promoting self-determination and systems-thinking work. Alec envisions a future where all human beings understand and experience self-trust, counteracting systems of oppression.
Alec credits the Ch’nook Aboriginal Management Program (AMP) for boosting her career and goals. The program helped her understand the logic behind numbers, finance, and math, thereby transforming her business perspective and boosting her confidence.
