Gabriel George

Gabriel George is from the Tsleil-Waututh Nation. He was born and raised on the Burrard Inlet Indian Reserve in North Vancouver. His Nation is part of the Coast Salish Peoples who have inhabited lands in Southern British Columbia and Northern Washington State since before the last ice age.

Gabriel was groomed from childhood in the rich history and culture of his family. His late grandfather Chief Dan George left a tremendous legacy. Gabriel’s late father, Leonard George and his late uncle Dr. Robert (Bobby) George taught him their family traditions. This schooling took place over many years. It is a way of teaching that has been unbroken for thousands of years.

Gabriel is a traditional speaker and singer for his family. He has attended many cultural, community and arts events both locally and internationally. Sharing songs, stories, dances, and philosophy. Some highlighted events include the Vancouver Winter Games 2010, Vancouver Story telling festival, BC ferries launch in Flensberg Germany, Common Wealth Games, Tall ships festival in Quebec, Cultural Arts Festival in Hawaii, World Outrigger sprints in Rio de Janeiro and many more…

Gabriel continues the work and legacy of his family that his Grandfather had started over 65 years ago. The work is reconciliation, awareness, and cultural sharing. He helps people understand the perils Indigenous Peoples have endured under Colonial oppression. He helps to bridge gaps that exist between Indigenous and Non-Indigenous Peoples. It is important for all People to have a safe place to navigate these issues.

He currently works as a Manager of Culture and Language for his People. His Nation is currently revitalising hən̓q̓əmin̓əm̓ and Sḵwx̱wú7mesh Snichem. He is a Cultural Ambassador and mentor for his Nation. His greatest passion is passing on the rich culture and language of the Tsleil-Waututh Peoples to the next generation.

Gabriel graduated from the University of the Fraser Valley, with a Bachelor of Arts in History, Theatre and Criminal Justice. He is now working towards his Masters in Education at Simon Fraser University.