Kukpi7 Wayne M. Christian is of Secwépemc and Syilx Okanagan ancestry and remains rooted in the culture, principles, and laws of his Nation. His name Wenecwtsin comes from his great grandfather. His family and teachings continue to be the touchstone of his work and underpin more than 30 years of leadership. He is a proud father of seven children and twenty-seven grandchildren, who provide him with the strength and determination to continue working to ensure a better future for our next generations.
Kukpi7 Christian’s leadership has been strongly supported by his Nation with his most recent re-election as Chief of Splatsin First Nation. He was first elected Chief in 1979 and has served several sets of consecutive terms since then. One of his significant achievements as Chief of Splatsin was leading the first community-controlled child welfare legislation in Canada. Kukpi7 Christian also holds the responsibility of Tribal Chairman for the Shuswap Nation Tribal Council.
Kukpi7 Christian has a leadership philosophy built on inclusivity, respect, transparency and accountability. He understands that leadership requires listening to concerns , understanding the issues, gathering feedback and implementing practical solutions. Open and transparent communication is key. Leadership for Kukpi7 Christian is way of living, a way of achieving change, and a way to strengthen our Nations and next generations.
Kukpi7 Christian believes leadership begins by building strong communities and this starts with our young people. He has always played an active role in the growth and development of youth through activities and sports. His experience working with youth includes coaching minor hockey for 16 years as head coach and assistant. During this time he took North Okanagan teams to the BC provincials, participated as an evaluator in BC best ever under 17 program and was assistant coach for Team BC in Prague, Czech Republic.
Kukpi7 continues to play lacrosse with the Okanagan Masters and in his spare time he is a hunter and fisher for his family and community
