‘Na̱mg̱is First Nation Election (2026)
Yo ‘Na̱mg̱is!
Notice is hereby given that the ‘Na̱mg̱is First Nation has called a Nomination Day for the upcoming Election and By-Election in accordance with the ‘Na̱mg̱is First Nation Election Regulations (amended 2022).
Eligible Electors may nominate candidates for:
- Chief (next term of office)
- One (1) Councillor position (By-Election – remaining term)
Nomination Day
April 2, 2026
🕛 12:00 PM – 7:00 PM
📍 Maya’anł Elders’ Centre – Alert Bay, B.C.
Nomination documents may be submitted:
- In person on Nomination Day
- Digitally (on or before April 2, 2026): nominations@onefeather.ca
Election Date
May 8, 2026
(Chief Election + Councillor By-Election)
Important Dates
All Candidates Forum:
- April 16, 2026 (5:00 PM – 8:00 PM)
- Lawrence Ambers Memorial Centre
- Zoom Registration Link
- Save to Calendar
Advance Poll:
- April 24, 2026 (9:00 AM – 9:00 PM)
- Maya’anł Elders’ Centre
- Save to Calendar
Election Day:
- May 8, 2026 (9:00 AM – 9:00 PM)
- Maya’anł Elders’ Centre
- Save to Calendar
Voter Eligibility
Registered Members who are 19 years or older by Election Day may:
- Nominate
- Second
- Vote
Candidate Requirements
Candidates must:
- Meet age requirements (21+ for Chief, 19+ for Councillor)
- Be a permanent resident of Cormorant Island (min. 6 months)
- Provide proof of residency + signed witness statement
- Not have an indictable offence within the past 5 years
- Submit a Statutory Declaration + Acceptance of Nomination form
- Resign employment if elected (if currently employed by ‘Na̱mg̱is)
Cadidates
Platforms
Donald Victor Isaac – Chief Candidate
Donald Victor Isaac is seeking re-election as Chief of the ’Na̱mg̱is First Nation, bringing over 30 years of leadership experience, including past service as Councillor and most recently as Chief (2024–2026). With a background in business administration and federal public service, he emphasizes strong governance, financial management, and long-term planning for the Nation.
His platform focuses on advancing ’Na̱mg̱is title and rights, including greater recognition of ownership and jurisdiction over lands, waters, and resources, and moving toward self-determination and self-government. He highlights the importance of involving all ’Na̱mg̱is members, along with hereditary leadership, in shaping these decisions.
Key priorities include strengthening the Nation’s economy through resource partnerships, protecting and enhancing fisheries, addressing housing shortages through new development and a proposed Housing Corporation, and improving community infrastructure such as sports and recreation facilities.
Victor also emphasizes teamwork, transparency, and accessibility in leadership, with a commitment to collaborative decision-making and increased engagement with members.
Ho’miska̱nis Don Svanvik – Chief Councillor Candiate
Don Svanvik is running for Chief Councillor and brings extensive leadership experience and long-standing service to the ’Na̱mg̱is First Nation.
He has served on ’Na̱mg̱is Council for many years, including six years as Chief Councillor, and has strong knowledge of Band governance, business, and operations. Throughout his leadership, he has contributed to several key committees, including housing, education, finance, and health.
Don also served for 25 years as a paramedic with BC Ambulance, demonstrating a strong commitment to community care and emergency response.
He has been actively involved in initiatives supporting the removal of fish farms from the Broughton Archipelago and played an instrumental role in the formation of BATI. In addition, he regularly participates in community events involving youth and Elders, including June Sports, National Indigenous Peoples Day, and Truth and Reconciliation events.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, Don demonstrated effective leadership by working in partnership with the tri-authority and health teams to support the community.
Udzista Ivy Peers – Chief Candidate
Ivy Peers is running for Chief of the ’Na̱mg̱is First Nation with a commitment to restoring transparency, accountability, and the voice of the people at the heart of governance. Her leadership is grounded in the principle of honest responsibility—ensuring that decisions made by Council reflect the needs, priorities, and lived realities of all members.
Her vision centers on rebuilding trust in leadership through openness and meaningful engagement, with a focus on ensuring every member feels heard, respected, and represented. Ivy emphasizes that governance must be accountable to the people, and that strong leadership begins with listening.
Key priorities in her platform include addressing the housing crisis and expanding health and wellness services to support safe, dignified living conditions for all members. She is committed to revitalizing ’Na̱mg̱is language and culture while supporting accessible, modern education pathways for all generations.
Ivy also prioritizes environmental stewardship, advocating for the protection of waters and natural resources through sustainable aquaculture and the exercise of environmental sovereignty. She highlights the importance of strengthening connections between youth and Elders through mentorship and community programs, ensuring knowledge and traditions are carried forward.
In addition, her platform calls for updating outdated governance policies to improve efficiency and support sustainable economic development that benefits the entire Nation.
Ivy’ leadership approach is rooted in accountability, transparency, and community connection—working toward a future where leadership listens, and the Nation thrives.
More Information
Election Code, Nomination Forms, Candidate Packages, and Voters List are available:
- At the ‘Na̱mg̱is Administration Office
- By request from the Electoral Officer
- Online: www.onefeather.ca/nations/namgis