The First Nations Archaeology Alliance (FNAA) is an incorporated society in British Columbia, made up entirely of First Nation and Indigenous community volunteers who work in the field of archaeology across the province. The FNAA empowers First Nations to steward evidence of the past through the practice of Indigenous Archaeology in accordance with their traditional laws and cultural protocols.

Historically, Indigenous peoples were excluded from archaeological research and decision-making, with practices rooted in extractive relationships. FNAA is working to shift that narrative by advancing an inclusive approach to archaeology in BC, one that respects multiple worldviews and knowledge systems.

The FNAA's purpose is to strengthen the bridge between Indigenous knowledge, communities, and the archaeological profession through collaboration, knowledge-sharing, and the respectful stewardship of cultural heritage guided by Indigenous laws and values.

FNAA 2026/2027 Board of Directors

  • Alysha Edwards

    President

    Alysha Edwards is from the community of Ts’kw’aylaxw and is currently working at St’át’imc Government Services in Lillooet B.C as an archaeologist. Alysha earned her Bachelor of Arts degree from the University of Northern British Columbia in 2020, her Master of Arts degree from the University of Montana in 2025, and is currently a PhD Candidate at the University of Montana where her research focuses on demographic and cultural changes at a prehistoric village site located within the traditional territory of the Xaxli’p Nation near Lillooet, B.C.

  • Heleana Cranswick

    Vice President

    Heleana is a Secwépemc archaeologist with over a decade of professional experience working throughout Secwépemcúl’ecw. She holds a Bachelor of Arts with Distinction in Archaeology from Simon Fraser University, along with an extended minor in Criminology and a Certificate in Forensic Studies.

    A second-generation archaeologist, Heleana began working in the field at a young age and has been professionally active in the industry since 2012. She is an accredited Interior Plateau Field Director and Permit Holder and currently holds multiple archaeological permits with Tk’emlúps te Secwépemc. Heleana serves as Operations Manager at Knúcwmens le Sxwixwéytemc Archaeology Services Ltd.

    In her role, Heleana oversees a range of projects from small-scale hydro developments to large, complex infrastructure initiatives, ensuring work is carried out to high professional and cultural standards. She is also a dedicated mentor, committed to creating meaningful opportunities for community members through training, hands-on experience, and career development. Her work supports capacity building within Secwépemc communities and fosters supportive environments for long-term growth in the field.

    Her approach is grounded in a commitment to Secwépemc knowledge, culture, and protocols. She strives to meaningfully integrate Indigenous perspectives with western archaeological practices, supporting culturally grounded and holistic interpretations of the archaeological record.

  • TJ Wright

    Secretary

    TJ Wright is a member of Tl'azt'en Nation and has been working as an archaeologist for over a decade. They are currently the Lead Archaeologist at K'en T'em Limited Partnership.

  • Leslie LeBourdais

    Treasurer

    Leslie is a member of the Pelltiq’t te Secwepemc Nation and is currently the General Manager of the Knúcwmens le Sxwixwéytemc Archaeology Services Ltd. representing Tk’emlúps te Secwépemc.  She has a passion for protecting, preserving, and promoting her Secwépemc culture. Leslie is a BC HCA heritage permit holder that has conducted various archaeological assessments throughout the province for forestry, mining, construction, oil and gas, hydro, and telecommunications developments. She was awarded a Master of Arts Degree in Heritage Resources Management from Simon Fraser University and is a Registered Professional Archaeologist.

  • Gordon Moore

    Director

    Gordon Moore is a professional archaeologist and a member of Stswecem'c Xgat'tem First Nation. With 30 years of experience practicing archaeology in British Columbia, he has worked extensively with First Nations and communities on archaeological assessments, monitoring, and heritage investigations. As a founding member of the First Nations Archaeological Alliance (FNAA), Gordon is dedicated to strengthening Indigenous voices in archaeology and supporting community-led approaches to heritage stewardship. He is currently Principal and Senior Archaeologist with Bridge Creek Archaeology.

BECOME A MEMBER:

Elect the Board of Directors

Raise awareness and advocate for the preservation of Indigenous heritage

Shape the programs and impact of First Nations Archaeology Alliance

  • Voting Members are individuals who are members of a BC First Nation working as a caretaker of First Nations heritage or studying in related fields. Voting Members can vote at the Annual General Meeting (AGM) and support FNAA's Mission and Vision.

    This category includes:
    - Guardians,
    - Students or Professors
    - Archaeologists
    - Cultural Heritage Technicians

  • Allied Members are non-voting members who can provide input and consultation, but cannot vote or hold office.

    This category includes:
    - Representatives of Indigenous Governance Organizations (IGOs)
    - First Nations community members
    - Indigenous archaeologists outside British Columbia

  • Sponsors and Supporters are non-voting members who support the goals and initiatives of the First Nations Archaeology Alliance. This category includes the employees, owners, and operators of corporations, consulting companies, and institutions as well as those working alongside First Nations in the field of Archaeology.

  • Sign up for free and represent your community.

    1. Complete membership form 

    2. Email membership form to FNAA 

    3. Receive confirmation 

    Members will be notified when the Board of Directors reviews applications. If you would like to know if your applications has been received, please contact the FNAA at info@bcfnaa.ca

Caretaker Membership Form
Ally Membership Form
Sponsor Membership Form