ti’talus Audrey Joe Santiago

Elder, Weaver & Keeper of Healing Traditions

ti'talus Audrey Joe Santiago, Ɂala ts'unay, Ɂala sxixus, born in kalpalin, is a respected Elder of the shíshálh Nation, a gifted weaver, basket maker, and regalia maker. For more than fifteen years, she has preserved and shared traditional weaving practices while helping pass on the cultural knowledge of her ancestors to future generations.

A dedicated advocate for the shashishalhem language and culture, ti'talus supports language and cultural education in School District No. 46. As Secretary of the shíshálh Elders Association, she also contributes her knowledge and leadership to community planning, cultural initiatives, and advisory work with the Nation.

A mother of four, grandmother of eleven, great-grandmother of four, and, together with her sister Ɂenchelain Valerie Joe, a respected family matriarch, ti'talus continues to inspire others through her teachings, generosity, and unwavering commitment to preserving shíshálh culture.Her work with the Healing Regalia project, including the creation of the Medicine Blanket, reflects generations of family knowledge and healing traditions passed down through the women in her family. Through her weaving, ti'talus honours her ancestors while helping guide the next generation on a journey of healing, identity, and reconciliation.