Gathering Wisdom forums – held every 18 months – manifest the commitments within the Tripartite BC First Nations Health Plan that underpin the transformation of health and wellness for First Nations in BC.

When will the Gathering Wisdom forum be happening this year?

This year Gathering Wisdom will be held at the Vancouver Convention Centre from Tuesday, February 28 to Thursday, March 2, 2023.

Why is it important that Chiefs attend the Gathering Wisdom forum?

It is important that Chiefs have information to support the health and wellness work they do in community. The Gathering Wisdom forum is an important part of the health governance process. It is an opportunity to provide Chiefs with an update on progress and discuss future strategic direction for the BC First Nations health governance structure.

Who is invited to attend?

Similar to the Regional Caucuses, we are pleased to invite three (3) representatives from each BC First Nation community in BC. This includes:

1. Political Lead (e.g. Chief or Proxy)
2. Health Lead (e.g. Health Director, Community Health Representative, or Health Portfolio Holder on Council)
3. Social Lead (e.g. Social Development Director, Social Development Worker, or Children and Family Worker)

It is up to each community to choose how they want to participate in the virtual Gathering Wisdom forum this year within the three affiliations described above. Given the focus of this year’s event, the participation of political representatives from each community is encouraged by the FNHC.

In addition, we are pleased to invite one (1) representative from the following:

• First Nation Umbrella Health Provider

What is the ‘social lead’ category on registration?

As the discussion on the social determinants of health is broader than health services, ‘social lead’ is fit to include representatives that have a responsibility for health and social services in their community. A ‘social lead’ may include, but is not limited to, a Band Manager, Social Development Director, Social Development Worker, Social Worker, or Children and Family Worker. These are examples – each community should select the most appropriate representative to attend for their community.

How do I register?

Registration for this event will be forthcoming soon.

If you have any questions regarding registering for the forum, please fill in the form below or email GW-info@fnha.ca.