Kristina George is from Aitchelitz First Nation within Stó꞉lō territory and carries two traditional names, Pama and Lex lex wemel, the second of which she shares with her mother. She has worked in the nursing field since 2013 and currently serves as the Director of Health and Social Services at Skwah First Nation.

'I've always known that I wanted to be a nurse.'

Kristina began her career as a medical office assistant before becoming a licensed practical nurse, completing her training at Vancouver Community College. After graduation, she began working with Seabird Island Band, where she stayed for a decade before transitioning to her current role at Skwah, which is the Nation of her great-grandmother.

At Skwah, Kristina oversees both health and social service portfolios. The health portfolio includes patient travel and food security, while the social services side focuses on child and family support. She manages a team of 10 and organizes community-wide events for back-to-school, Truth and Reconciliation, and Skwah's annual Pride celebration, which launched last year.

Cultural safety a foundation for leadership

For Kristina, the most meaningful part of her work is being a strong advocate for her community, especially for those who may not feel heard. “They're vulnerable. This is the time for me to step up for them, to advocate, to use my voice, because sometimes they don't know how to speak up, or don't feel like they're being properly cared for."

Speaking to how cultural safety is the foundation for her leadership and care Kristina says her responsibility is to be sure that members are being provided culturally safe and the best, most optimal care possible. “This community has gone through a lot. They deserve nothing but the best, so I really strive to make sure they get that. I'll advocate for them and be their voice if they can't speak up for themselves."

'We need Indigenous nurses in our communities.'

Kristina encourages others, especially Indigenous youth, to consider nursing as a career path. “I say yes. And especially if they're Indigenous, we definitely need that presence in the community to provide culturally safe care," Kristina said, when asked what she would say to those thinking about nursing as a profession. Reflecting on her own path, she acknowledges it takes work and patience to build trust and relationships in community-based roles, emphasizing the need for cultural safety. “Even as someone who is Indigenous, I still had a hard time building relationships. It takes time, and an understanding of intergenerational trauma and colonization, like residential schools. It takes time to build that rapport."

Through her leadership, advocacy, and celebration of culture, Kristina is creating space for healing and progress.

To learn more about a career in community health nursing visit the link here.