News Release
May 2, 2025

Katisha Paul, UBCIC Youth Representative, Elected Global Indigenous Youth Caucus Co-Chair at the United Nations Permanent Forum

(xʷməθkʷəy̓əm (Musqueam), Sḵwx̱wú7mesh (Squamish) and səlilwətaɬ (Tsleil Waututh)/ Vancouver, B.C. – May 2, 2025) The Union of B.C. Indian Chiefs (UBCIC) proudly shares that Katisha Paul (W̱ JOȽEȽP and Lil’wat), UBCIC Youth Representative, has been elected UN Global Indigenous Youth Caucus Co-Chair at the 2025 United Nations Permanent Forum on Indigenous Issues (UNPFII).

UBCIC was in attendance at the UNPFII to speaking on the Forum’s central theme, “Implementing the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples (UN Declaration) within United Nations Member States and the UN system,” and urge global leaders to move beyond symbolic commitments and toward binding, enforceable action that centers Indigenous Peoples’ rights and leadership.

As Co-Chair of the Global Indigenous Youth Caucus, Katisha will play a vital role in coordinating and facilitating dialogue among Indigenous youth representatives from the seven global regions: Africa, Asia, Central and South America and the Caribbean, the Arctic, Eastern Europe/Russian Federation/Central Asia and Transcaucasia, North America, and the Pacific. The position also includes serving as a key point of contact when engaging with external agencies and institutions, including governments and UN bodies, ensuring Indigenous youth voices are centered in international policymaking.

"It is an honour to have been elected to serve as Co-Chair to amplify the voices of Indigenous youth globally," said Katisha Paul. "The world has an obligation to future generations to witness the power of the young leaders of today and our ability to adapt and lead during a time when failing political institutions endorse environmental degradation and perpetuate societal collapse. We are leading the way in transnational, environmental, and human rights advocacy. We hold the inherent birthright to be active participants in achieving self-determination. We must support one another across nations by holding institutions accountable to Indigenous rights, as affirmed in the UN Declaration."

Chief Don Tom, UBCIC Vice-President, congratulated Katisha on her appointment: “This is an incredible achievement, and we are proud to stand behind Katisha as she steps into this global leadership role. She is a fierce advocate grounded in community, culture, and the strength of our youth. Her leadership reflects the urgent need for Indigenous youth perspectives to shape international conversations and policies.”

Katisha’s election is a testament to the growing momentum of Indigenous youth worldwide who are demanding transformative action and meaningful inclusion. The UBCIC remains committed to supporting youth leadership and the full implementation of the UN Declaration at every level, from community to global institutions.

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Media inquiries:

Chief Don Tom, Vice-President, 604-290-6083
Katisha Paul, Youth Representative, 604-317-6350

UBCIC is an NGO in Special Consultative Status with the Economic and Social Council of the United Nations.

For more information, please visit www.ubcic.bc.ca

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