Darlene Fiddler

Background

About Darlene Fiddler

Darlene comes from the Kwakwaḵa̱’wakw̱ Nation, the Musgawma Dzawaḏa'enu̱xw tribe of Kingcome Inlet-Gwa-Yee. She is a dedicated advocate for mental health, addictions, support services, and overall wellbeing of Indigenous peoples. Darlene’s ancestral name is Pud’Yalas, which means, “One Who Feeds the People.” Darlene received her name at a potlatch held by her uncle Frank Nelson in Alert Bay. Darlene holds a bachelor’s degree in social work, specializing in First Nations Social Work, from the University of Victoria and has nearly 25 years of experience working in the field. Darlene has made significant contributions to the field through her leadership and program development. She is currently the Dean of Student Services at Native Education College and prior to that she was the program manager for the Family and Community Counselling Department. In her previous role as Program Director at the Metro Vancouver Indigenous Services Society (MVISS) saw her spearhead the development of pioneering programs that integrate Indigenous cultural values and healing practices which bolstered one to one counselling and residential day programs. Darlene's work is characterized by a profound commitment to anti-oppressive practices and a deep understanding of the challenges faced by marginalized communities, with a keen eye on Indigenous communities. Her expertise encompasses a range of intervention models and healing practices, making her a respected figure in the field of social work and community health services. In addition, Darlene uses Two-Eyed Seeing, which refers to learning to see from one eye with the strengths of Indigenous ways of knowing and from the other eye with the strengths of Western ways of knowing and to using both of these eyes together. Darlene’s dedication to her community and her unwavering belief in the importance of culturally responsive care continue to inspire and drive positive change, it continues to motivate her. Notable Achievements: June 2024 Darlene received the Chief Joe Mathias Award: This award is named after the Chief Joe Mathias, the former Chief of Squamish Nation worked towards having Indigenous Rights and Title recognized by the federal and provincial governments, the award recognizes those who exemplify leadership in their careers, communities, and their exceptional contributions and unwavering commitment to the well-being of Indigenous peoples.