WOODWARD & COMPANY - Key Persons
Job Titles:
- Director of Administration
- Support Staff Member
A lawyer at Woodward and Company, Christa specializes in environmental and regulatory law, governance, and policy making. In the course of her work, she is driven to use law and policy to ensure the prosperity of Indigenous peoples and the protection of the places that are important to them. She is committed to finding creative solutions for her clients and is influenced by her science training and her work in the non-profit sector pursuing environmental and climate justice.
Christa grew up in Sri Lanka and Scarborough (Ontario) and now works in lək̓ʷəŋən and W̱SÁNEĆ Unceded Territories (Victoria, British Columbia). Christa earned an Honours Bachelor of Science in chemistry and environmental science from the University of Toronto, where she received the Scarborough campus' departmental Academic Excellence and Citizenship Award. While there, she completed internships at Environment Canada and in the food manufacturing industry. She then completed her master's degree in public policy and administration at Toronto Metropolitan University.
She obtained her law degree from the University of Ottawa, graduating cum laude in 2021 with a specialization in environmental law. While at law school, she worked as a law student providing free legal services at both the University of Ottawa Community Legal Clinic and the Ecojustice Clinic and completed research assistantships focused on environmental law and human rights.
Prior to joining the firm, Christa articled at the Environmental Law Centre at the University of Victoria where she provided free environmental law services to Indigenous clients and community groups. Christa joined B.C. Bar in 2022 and the Northwest Territories Bar in 2023.
Job Titles:
- Member from the Kwa'Mutsun
Job Titles:
- Assistant
- Legal Assistant
- Support Staff Member
- Assistant at Woodward and Company
A legal assistant at Woodward and Company, Delaney is passionate about the environment and discovering more ways to be eco-conscious. Her role at the firm sees her facilitate trial prep, review and edit documents, draft correspondence, and find solutions for technical problems on behalf of the lawyers she works alongside.
Originally from Kelowna, Delaney moved to Vancouver for post secondary, completing the legal assistant program at Douglas College. Upon graduating, Delaney relocated to beautiful Victoria for work. With a passion for learning and not one to shy away from a challenge, she has recently commenced her paralegal certificate program at Capilano University and is excited to further her interest and knowledge in environmental law.
Delaney is a skilled multitasker and takes stressful situations in her stride-two traits which see her thrive in the world of litigation.
As a lawyer at Woodward and Company, Breanne's work currently focuses on Aboriginal rights & title litigation. She is passionate about advancing the rights of Indigenous peoples and helping Indigenous Nations reclaim jurisdiction, particularly when it comes to Metis legal traditions and rights.
Breanne is from Thunder Bay in Northwestern Ontario. She is a citizen of the Metis Nation of Ontario and her ancestral lands are the North Shore of Lake Superior and Lake Nipigon.
Breanne holds a B.A.H. in Global Development Studies from Queen's University graduating with distinction in 2015. She earned her Juris Doctor with a specialization in Aboriginal Law & Indigenous Legal Traditions from University of Ottawa and graduated Cum Laude in 2018. She first joined the firm as a summer student in 2017, articling here in 2019 before joining full time as a lawyer in 2020.
Before she was first called to the B.C. Bar in 2020, Breanne interned at the Specific Claims Tribunal as well as at the Senate of Canada. Between law school and returning to Woodward and Company, she worked at the Senate of Canada as a Special Assistant. She was also the President of the Indigenous Law Students' Association at the University of Ottawa from 2017-2018, where she regularly advocated for improvements to the law school experience for Indigenous students at both a university and nation-wide level.
Jessica is an experienced advocate and a pragmatic negotiator. First Nations can look to Jessica for advice in respect of proposed developments/projects, or for assistance navigating environmental complaints, investigations, prosecutions and related enforcement proceedings.
In addition to her regulatory expertise, Jessica has extensive experience handling a variety of commercial litigation matters, ranging from complex, multi-million dollar ICC and ad hoc arbitrations, to more run-of-the mill contractual, leasing and construction-related disputes. She has appeared before the BC Supreme Court, all levels of Court in Alberta, and at various environmental and administrative tribunals.
Jessica's experience acting as counsel for various mining, utility and government clients has armed her with unique insight and perspective into how these parties typically assess, prioritize and respond to litigation and regulatory intervention. She leverages this experience and insight to achieve the best possible outcomes for our First Nations clients.
Jessica obtained her undergraduate degree, with distinction, from the University of Victoria (2006), and her Bachelor of Laws at the University of Alberta (2011). During her studies she served as a Criminal Caseworker (2009-10) and later served as Executive Coordinator (2010-2011) and Chairperson of the Board (2013-17) for the largest student-run legal clinic in North America.
Jessica is a committed to amplifying the voices of those calling for thoughtful, sustainable solutions to today's most pressing issues like climate change and reconciliation.
Job Titles:
- Special Projects Manager
- Support Staff Member
- Special Projects Manager at Woodward and Company
As the Special Projects Manager at Woodward and Company, Elizabeth works on various firm administration and HR tasks as well as numerous firm initiatives. Backed by her efficiency, flexibility, and excellent communication skills, she's committed to deepening her experience in First Nations law and contributing to the empowerment of Indigenous communities.
Elizabeth's organization and attention to detail see her thrive within a variety of projects. Whether furthering initiatives and goals within the firm, or hiking with her dog on the weekend, Elizabeth's open mind and enthusiasm for learning means she loves a challenge - and sees each new experience as an opportunity for growth.
Before joining the firm, Elizabeth graduated from the BA Justice Studies Degree at Royal Roads University. Prior to completing her degree, she completed a Legal Assistant Diploma in Alberta as well as a Fashion Marketing Diploma in Vancouver.
Job Titles:
- Assistant
- Support Staff Member
- Assistant at Woodward and Company
- Senior Legal Assistant
As a legal assistant at Woodward and Company, Geneva is committed to contributing to Canada's decolonial process and brings her strong organizational skills, adaptability, and confidence to her work with great success.
Geneva was born in Squamish, BC and lived there until high school when she moved to Langley to compete in equestrian sports. She then moved to Nanaimo and attended school in Duncan before moving to Ottawa to complete her undergraduate degree in law, which set the foundation for her interest in decolonization and First Nations advocacy. Between graduation and joining Woodward and Company, Geneva worked as a paralegal in personal injury and estate litigation which deepened her interest in law and provided her with an opportunity to hone her legal skillset.
In her role at the firm, Geneva's work sees her managing high volumes of electronic documents and providing technical expertise. Working side by side with the team's lawyers and other legal assistants, she learns quickly and is fast to take initiative - traits which see her excel in her role.
Outside of work, Geneva is an ardent hiker who can often be found exploring the South Island with her dog, Seven. She enjoys gardening and home improvement projects. As for the future, Geneva has plans to attend graduate school and dreams of living self-sufficiently on a secluded farm.
As a partner at Woodward and Company, Ava's practice spans the fields of Aboriginal rights and title, the duty to consult and accommodate, the Crown's fiduciary obligations to First Nations, treaty land entitlement, and other litigation, negotiation and advocacy work aimed at reconciliation.
Ava is one of the lead counsel in the longest trial in Canadian history: the Cowichan Nation's pursuit of title to their historic village at Tl'uqtinus, and associated fishing rights. She has represented myriad First Nations communities, fiercely negotiating and pursuing justice on their behalf.
A member of the Law Societies of British Columbia and Ontario, Ava is backed by a Juris Doctor Degree from the University of British Columbia as well as two Bachelor of Science degrees, in wildlife ecology & rural sociology, from the University of Wisconsin-Madison. Ava has been recognized and awarded multiple times for her achievements, including the Marlee G. Kline Prize for best paper and the Superior Court Judges' Scholarship for high academic standing.
Ava is gratefully from Ojibwe and Lakota territory in Minnesota.
A lawyer at Woodward and Company since 2020, Andrew is specialized in Aboriginal rights and title litigation. He's deeply motivated to help achieve justice for Indigenous peoples by protecting their rights to their traditional land and achieving social and environmental justice through the colonial legal system.
Andrew is originally from Ontario, where he was first called to the bar in 2020. Prior to that, he earned his undergraduate degree in Environmental Biology at Queen's University and a Master of Environmental Science degree at the University of Toronto. He went to law school at the University of Victoria and graduated in 2019 (with a concentration in Environmental Law and Sustainability). While at the University of Victoria, he worked and volunteered with several environmental law organizations including the Environmental Law Centre, West Coast Environmental Law, and the Pacific Centre for Environmental Law and Litigation.
Before joining Woodward and Company, Andrew worked at Ecojustice, a leading environmental law non-profit organization, where he was involved in a variety of public interest environmental litigation files. His work at Woodward and Company is informed by this previous litigation experience. He is currently working with the Cowichan Nation in their claim for recognition of their Aboriginal rights and title.
Job Titles:
- Accounts Clerk
- Support Staff Member
Irish was born and raised in the Philippines and lived there until moving to Canada in 2020 to further her studies. She holds a degree in Accounting and Business Management from the University of the Philippines. She also recently completed her post graduate diploma in accounting at Selkirk College in Castlegar, BC.
As well as having an innately analytical mind, Irish is well-versed in fundamental accounting principles and concepts. She's meticulous and adaptable, cool-headed and positive-even when there are tight deadlines looming.
In the future, Irish would love to hone her accounting skills and eventually become a certified public accountant. She plans to sit her CPA exam and continue to learn more about accounting software, AI for business, and other business processes.
Outside of her professional life, Irish loves being in the great outdoors, going on hikes, chasing sunsets on the beach, joining marathons, travelling, and watching documentaries.
Berry works closely with Indigenous peoples to build legal and administrative tools to support effective self-governance, promote Indigenous legal orders and protect Indigenous traditions and ways of life. A careful listener and creative thinker, she always looks for ways to incorporate Indigenous ways of knowing into innovative and practical legal solutions that reflect and respect the unique needs and perspectives of the people and communities she serves. Berry brings a lifelong passion for learning and knowledge sharing to her practice. She is deeply grateful for the opportunity to learn from and collaborate with Indigenous peoples in the ongoing project of achieving self-determination.
Berry obtained a BA (honours, with distinction) in Classical Studies from the University of Victoria and Boston College (2002), and a J.D. from the University of Victoria (2005), where she took an intensive Indigenous Legal Studies program.
Berry has been with Woodward & Company since 2004, when she first joined as a student. She was called to the BC Bar in September 2006, the Alberta Bar in January 2011 and has training in civil mediation and family law mediation.
As part of her commitment to sharing knowledge, Berry regularly presents at conferences and workshops, has appeared as a guest instructor at UVic Law, and volunteers her time to speak to high school students and others about the law and Indigenous rights whenever the opportunity presents.
Job Titles:
- Facilities Manager
- Legal Assistant
- Support Staff Member
In her multifaceted role as legal assistant and HR & facilities manager, Jamie provides valuable support to solicitors, litigators, and the firm's management team.
Since joining the firm in 2007, Jamie has contributed to a number of important cases and proceedings, including her support role in the Tsilhqot'in Aboriginal Rights & Title case. Her strong organizational skills combined with over 20 years of experience in the legal field helped to bring the Tsilhqot'in Title Case through all levels of appeal, including the Supreme Court of Canada- which she considers the high point of her career so far.
Job Titles:
- Assistant
- Support Staff Member
- Senior Legal Assistant
A legal assistant at Woodward and Company, Jenna's work is fueled by her passion for the environment, animals, and reconciliation with First Nations.
Born and raised in Calgary, Alberta, Jenna's love and respect for the environment started early. Knowing that she wanted to pursue a career in the legal field, Jenna obtained her Legal Assistant Diploma from SAIT Polytechnic back in 2016. She then worked for a law firm in Calgary before deciding to make the move to Vancouver Island to obtain her Bachelor of Arts Degree in Justice Studies from Royal Roads University. It is during her time at RRU that Jenna's passion for First Nations rights and reconciliation became apparent.
Now, Jenna primarily works alongside the firm's lawyers drafting and editing claims, cataloging historical documents, and completing administrative tasks. Her strong leadership and organizational skills benefit her in her legal assistant role, ensuring that colleagues and clients always have their needs met efficiently and effectively.
In the future, Jenna is interested in furthering her education with respect to First Nations History in Canada, and completing her Law Degree from the University of Victoria.
In his role of partner at Woodward and Company, X̱eyx̱kinem (Gary's) work primarily focuses on a general practice for Indigenous governments. His current practice spans settlement negotiations, business transactions, taxation, economic development, reserve infrastructure projects, environmental remediation, band governance, leasing, contractual and employment matters, and ‘Indian' status issues.
In addition to a general practice, Gary has an extensive background specializing in Aboriginal rights and title. He was part of the core legal team that successfully established Aboriginal rights and title for the Tsilhqot'in Nation, where he assisted in drafting the final argument and was instrumental in working with elders and experts to present oral history and expert evidence to the court.
Gary was born in North Vancouver and is a member of the Squamish Nation. He first joined the firm as a co-op student in 1999 and returned as an articled student in 2000. He was then called to the bar in British Columbia in 2001.
Gary is the recipient of the National Aboriginal Achievement Scholarship Award, the Keith B. Jobson Award and the Chief Michael Underwood Award for leadership, community interest and academic excellence with respect to Indigenous issues.
Job Titles:
- Operations Manager
- Support Staff Member
- Operations Manager at Woodward and Company
As Operations Manager at Woodward and Company, Jesse is committed to making the professional lives of his colleagues easier, whether that means performing administrative duties, strategic management, or anything in between. No matter what the task at hand is, he always meets it with his usual smile and ease.
Before joining Woodward and Company in 2011, Jesse attended Southern Alberta Institute of Technology where he studied business administration, as well Georgian College where he studied automotive marketing. He's grateful to be a part of the Woodward and Company team, and in turn he brings his enthusiasm and positivity to his role every day.
Throughout every facet of his work, Jesse is steadfast in offering his support to members of the firm. In doing so, he constantly helps the community to overcome its daily challenges; thereby allowing each member of the team to focus on their responsibilities with as much efficiency as possible.
Outside of his work with the firm, Jesse is passionate about cooking, hiking, kayaking, and just generally finding ways to enjoy life and laugh as much as possible.
Job Titles:
- Senior Counsel
- Member of the BC
Jessica is an active member of the BC and Alberta Law Societies. She is an active member of the CBA, and has served on the executive for Alberta North's Alternative Dispute Resolution subsection. She volunteers regularly with Pro Bono Law Alberta, and has been a coordinator for the Civil Claims Duty Counsel Project since its inception in 2015. She presents regularly at Environmental Services of Alberta Association events, and has written several articles providing practical guidance on environmental release reporting, arbitrating construction contracts and the duty of honest performance.
Job Titles:
- Accounts Clerk
- Support Staff Member
Jose is Filipino and was born and raised in the Philippines before moving to Canada in 2021. He holds a business diploma from the University of Victoria and a bachelor's in accounting from the Philippine School of Business Administration in Manila.
As an accounts clerk, Jose works side by side with the lawyers and partners to ensure a smooth and efficient billing process. His ability to multitask, manage time efficiently, and prioritize tasks makes him a reliable member of the team who consistently meets deadlines.
Outside of his work life with Woodward and Company, Jose is passionate about volunteering in the community and making an impact on others by lending a hand, especially to those who are in need.
Job Titles:
- Assistant
- Support Staff Member
- Senior Legal Assistant
As legal assistant for Woodward and Company's litigation team, Kathleen's far-reaching role spans document drafting and editing, correspondence, preparing motion records and books of authorities, conducting searches for primary and secondary sources for evidence on behalf of clients of the firm; and much, much more.
A born-and-raised Victoria local, Kathleen initially earned her legal assistant certificate over 25 years ago. Since then, her long-standing legal career has seen her work in family law and personal injury law before eventually coming to focus on Indigenous law with Woodward and Company.
Ever since joining the firm in the fall of 2013, Kathleen has thrived in a role that puts her curiosity, analytical mind, and resourcefulness to the test. Thanks to her calm demeanor and professional manner, even the tightest of deadlines are consistently met with ease.
Outside of her work with the firm, Kathleen is an avid kayaker, gardener, and hiker. Before too long, she hopes to tick some of the world's great hikes off her bucket-list, whether it be walking the Pennine Way Trail or taking on the Coast to Coast Trail in England.
In his role of partner at Woodward and Company, David's core law practice is focused on finding remedies for historic and ongoing Crown interferences with Aboriginal occupation and use of lands and resources.
Having previously earned degrees in law from the University of Victoria and philosophy from the University of British Columbia, David's practice sees him advocate successfully for First Nations at all levels of court. Throughout his many years of experience, his work has contributed to securing multiple victories for the Tsilhqot'in Nation, including the Supreme Court of Canada's landmark judgment of June 26, 2014, declaring Aboriginal title for the first time in Canada.
Prior to becoming a lawyer, David was a judicial law clerk to the BC Supreme Court and BC Court of Appeal. Having been called to the bar in British Columbia in 2001, his current work sees him act as counsel to the Cowichan Nation in its Aboriginal title litigation in British Columbia.
As well as being the Former Co-Chair of the Aboriginal Law Subsection of British Columbia, David is the author of "Tsilhqot'in Nation v. British Columbia: A Decade After Delgamuukw" in Aboriginal Law Since Delgamukw (2009).
As one of Woodward and Company's lawyers, Candace's work focuses on Aboriginal rights and title, environmental assessments, and lands and resource governance. Her greatest motivation is to help change Indigenous peoples' experiences in and with the colonial legal system.
Candace is a Cowichan Tribes member from the Kwa'mutsun (Quamichan) village. She was born and raised in Quw'utsun territory, on Cowichan Indian Reserve #1. After graduating high school, she attended the UBC Faculty of Music as a pianist and vocal major, later returning to Kwantlen Polytechnic University where she pursued an undergraduate degree in Sustainability Policy Studies. She attended the University of Saskatchewan's Program of Legal Studies for Native People in 2017. She completed her law degree at the University of Victoria in December 2021, where she received multiple academic awards including Cowichan Tribes Academic Achievement Award (2014); Arthur Rhodes Scholarship for Outstanding Graduate of the Program of Legal Studies for Native People (2017); University of Victoria Faculty of Law Access Bursary (2018); Blakes Scholar Award (2019); Honourable Mention, First Peoples Law Indigenous Law Student Scholarship Award (2020); and Blakes Scholar Award (2020).
Prior to serving as one of the firm's lawyers, Candace worked for Cowichan Tribes' Lulumexun Lands & Governance Department from 2015-2021, where she worked as Referrals/Crown Consultation Coordinator, Land Code Coordinator, and Matrimonial Real Property Law Coordinator. Having previously articled at the firm as a student, Candace returned to join Woodward and Company as a lawyer in early 2023 after she became a member of the B.C. Bar.
Throughout the course of her work, Candace seeks to create space in the legal sphere for Indigenous peoples to govern themselves, their territories, and their relations with all living beings according to their own sacred directives, as unencumbered by colonial interests as is possible.
Job Titles:
- Legal Assistant
- Support Staff Member
- Woodward and Company As a Legal Assistant
Lori joined Woodward and Company as a legal assistant in 2023. The motivation to be part of a team that is doing important heart-centered work in the legal industry ultimately led Lori to Woodward & Company.
In her role at the firm, Lori's work keeps her busy and focused largely on Wills and Estates files as well as general file management. Working side by side with the team's lawyers and other legal assistants, she is quick to take initiative and incredibly organized- traits which see her excel in her role. Prior to joining Woodward and Company, Lori worked as an Estates paralegal with a high level of understanding in complex succession planning and estate administration.
Lori obtained her legal assistant certification at the Okanagan College, School of Business. Lori is also an internationally published photographer, and has studied Yoga, Ayurveda and Mediation practices in Dharamshala, India. Outside of work, Lori is an avid outdoors woman, trail runner and photographer, all of which she enjoys doing with her equally outgoing pup.
Job Titles:
- Assistant
- Legal Assistant
- Support Staff Member
- Assistant at Woodward and Company
In her role as a legal assistant at Woodward and Company, Morinsola is dedicated to using her skills to support the lawyers around her to the highest standard. Alongside her law degree, her background in theatre equips her with multi-tasking skills that are second-to-none.
Originally from Winnipeg, Morinsola studied theatre at the University of Manitoba, and law at Cardiff University. Outside of work, she passionately learns about history-and particularly enjoys researching the political, cultural, and artistic norms from bygone days.
As managing partner of the firm, Eamon acts as general counsel for several First Nations and his practice includes Aboriginal title litigation, oil and gas regulatory hearings, and intervenor and appellate court work.
Eamon graduated from the University of Victoria Faculty of Law in 1997 and was first called to the British Columbia Bar in 1999, then to the bar in Manitoba in 2000. In 2016, he was called to the bar of the Law Society of Ontario.
Eamon acts for clients throughout Canada. He has appeared as counsel in the courts of British Columbia, Alberta, Ontario, the Federal Court, and the Supreme Court of Canada.
Eamon contributed for several years to the CLE publication "Due Diligence Deskbook", and was the former managing editor of Native Law. He's been a speaker at a wide variety of conferences, including the 2014 "World Summit on Indigenous Philanthropy" hosted by International Funders for Indigenous Peoples in New York City.
Driven by her desire to provide excellent legal service to Indigenous communities, Alexa's core focuses as a lawyer at Woodward and Company are environmental and regulatory law, governance, lands, and Aboriginal rights and title.
Alexa is originally from Vancouver, and her studies saw her attend and graduate from the University of Victoria with a B.A. in political science and environmental studies. She then returned to UVic for law school to complete her Juris Doctor degree with a concentration in environmental law and sustainability. While at law school, she received the James H.C. Walker Memorial Prize in Environmental Law.
During her legal studies, Alexa completed clinical terms at the UVic Law Centre and the Environmental Law Centre providing free legal advice. She also worked as a co-op student at the Environmental Law Centre and served on their board of directors. Alexa has since been called to the B.C. Bar and has been practicing at Woodward and Company since 2022.
In her role at the firm, Alexa is determined to assist First Nations communities on their path of self-determination, while ensuring colonial governments are held accountable for historic and continuing injustices.
Job Titles:
- Assistant
- Support Staff Member
- Senior Legal Assistant
In her role as legal assistant at Woodward and Company, Nancy's work focuses on conveyancing transactions with regards to claims in Aboriginal title. By supporting the practice of the firm's solicitors, her own work seeks to create positive change for our clients, particularly in relation to self government policies and regulations.
Nancy's attention to detail combined with her love of a good challenge allows her to excel in her role and successfully contribute to the accomplishment of many large projects, including law writing and the recent implementation of the Tla'amin Treaty.
Before joining Woodward and Company in June of 2014, Nancy attended Camosun College where she undertook studies in the legal office assistant program. Since then, her legal career has seen her support several important cases and claims, such as her role in helping to prepare and register the largest Land Title Registration package in BC LTSA history.
Outside of her work at the firm, Nancy is passionate about spending time with her children and traveling the world. In particular, she appreciates the chance to explore other cultures and traditions, especially when it comes to experiencing the day to day lives of others and the similarities that we share.
Heather's practice focuses on lands matters and claims negotiations. Her work includes negotiating high-value specific claims settlements and establishing legislative regimes for lands and resources for self-governing First Nations. Heather also has a solid background in on-reserve land transactions, taxation, and commercial development.
Heather was called to the bar in 2004, and has dedicated her practice to Indigenous governments ever since. She has clients in multiple Canadian provinces and territories and is a member of the Law Societies of BC, Yukon, and Ontario.
As a member of the litigation team in the landmark Tsilhqot'in Nation v. BC Aboriginal title case, Heather developed a deep appreciation for the role of Indigenous law, including oral history and elders knowledge, in defending and promoting constitutionally protected Aboriginal and treaty rights and shaping First Nations' vision for the future. Respect for indigenous perspectives and laws is a core value that informs Heather's practice.
Heather is well-recognized for contributions in her field, and is regularly called upon to speak on topics including First Nation laws, land management, and Specific Claims.
As a lawyer at Woodward and Company, Alana's solicitor work spans lands, reserve, and treaty implementation issues. Within this, her practice focuses on reconciling the systemic injustices that often affect First Nations, particularly when it comes to their rights to their traditional lands.
Originally from Winnipeg, Alana took an undergrad in psychology back in her home city. Her educational background in both psychological and sociological studies motivated her to pursue justice and truth from an early stage- and would eventually lead her to study law at the University of Victoria.
Now with more than a decade of experience with Woodward and Company, Alana has contributed to a number of significant cases, including the groundbreaking Tsilhqot'in Aboriginal Title case. Her results-oriented work ethic combined with her trustworthiness- both as legal counsel and a colleague- provide a strong basis for her characteristically high quality work.
Both reliable and a careful listener, Alana's work is deeply motivated by the will to empower First Nations to make their own decisions. Through her extensive legal experience and commitment to relationship building, her work seeks to bridge the gap between the government, Indigenous peoples, and communities that they are a part of.
Job Titles:
- Assistant
- Legal Assistant
- Support Staff Member
- Assistant to a Number of Woodward and Company
Natausha is a legal assistant to a number of Woodward and Company's lawyers, providing essential file organization, document preparation, and completion of administrative tasks. Her strong organizational skills, amicability, and eagerness to learn make her a vital part of the firm's team.
Natausha grew up in Sidney and moved to Esquimalt in 2017 with her son, Logan. She graduated from Parkland Secondary School and took her legal administration course through CDI College, graduating in 2015.
Outside of her career with Woodward and Company, Natausha is passionate about her kids, fiancé, dogs, hiking, camping, writing her blog, and spending time at the beach. She enjoys watching her son play sports and helps coach his soccer team. With an eye for the future, Natausha would like to continue to explore her writing and possibly further her education.
Practicing at Woodward and Company since 2022, Erika's work spans litigation; Aboriginal, environmental, and administrative law, specific claims, as well as supporting Indigenous governments with legislative drafting and employment matters. Her work is fueled by her belief that supporting First Nations is a powerful antidote to the environmental damage largely caused by colonial policies and practices.
Erika is originally from Edmonton, Alberta, where she trained as a classical musician and obtained a Bachelor of Music in trumpet performance-eventually going on to master the same subject at the University of Victoria. She also secured her law degree from the University of Victoria, graduating with a certificate in environmental law and sustainability.
Prior to her position at the firm, Erika worked as a legislative analyst with the Province of B.C. at the Ministry of Children and Family Development. She was also an officer in the Royal Canadian Air Force from 2014-2022, working in particular with the Air Cadet Gliding Program and mentoring youth. Erika first joined the Woodward and Company team as an articling student in 2020, before beginning her practice as a lawyer in 2022. She is a member of the B.C. Bar.
Erika's drive to work in law initially emerged from her deep concern for the environment. While studying law, it became clear to her that Indigenous peoples are rightfully leading the charge to reintegrate sustainable practices using the knowledge they developed over millennia-the realization of which continues to deeply motivate her work at the firm.
Job Titles:
- HR Manager
- Support Staff Member
Pam was born in Saskatchewan and raised in the Yukon. Growing up, she frequently visited Victoria and it eventually became her permanent home while she completed her education. Cherishing her memories and experiences of living in the prairies, northern communities of the Yukon, and by the ocean in Victoria, BC, Pam attended Mount Douglas Senior Secondary, then the Criminal Justice Program at Camosun College. Later, after working in HR for 10 years, she went on to complete an advanced degree in human resource management at Camosun College. In 2010, Pam earned her professional designation as a Chartered Human Resources Professional (CPHR) through the BC & Yukon Human Resources Association. In 2019, she received an international designation as an SHRM-SCP with recognition as a senior-level HR Manager from the Society for Human Resources Management.
In her role as HR manager, Pam is responsible for developing, delivering, and managing all aspects of the firm's comprehensive human resources program, policies, and processes designed to support the firm's strategic business objectives. She brings an arsenal of experience in a variety of businesses and industries, affirming every day that her adaptability and willingness to learn continues to be an asset to the Woodward community. The culmination of her family values, life experiences, and professional accomplishments make Pam an aspirational leader who focuses on positively influencing and empowering the capacity of others to flourish personally, and professionally, while aspiring to achieve their goals.
Job Titles:
- Finance Manager
- Support Staff Member
As the finance manager at Woodward and Company, Phaedra's role is as intricate and essential as a comprehensive excel spreadsheet. Whether streamlining financial processes or revamping the billing system her positivity and solution-based mindset contribute greatly to the workings of the firm, its staff, and its clients.
Before joining Woodward and Company, Phaedra worked as a professional folk musician. Her time as a touring and performing artist afforded her the chance to learn from the world in many unexpected ways, allowing her to adopt a mindset of curiosity, compassion, and perseverance - all of which show up in her work at Woodward and Company today.
In her current role, Phaedra is committed to making sure the financial operations of the firm run as smoothly as possible. In doing so, she's always there to assist clients however needed and support the work of her colleagues with maximum accuracy and efficiency.
As well as being a careful listener, Phaedra approaches every aspect of her work with rigorous attention to detail; meaning no matter what it is that she's been tasked, she can always be counted on and is there the moment you need her.
Job Titles:
- Director of Knowledge Management
- Support Staff Member
Sarah grew up on Vancouver Island near Sidney, B.C. and lived in Calgary for 16 years before returning to Victoria in 2015. She attended Parklands Secondary School, studied as an undergraduate at the University of Victoria, underwent legal assistant training at SAIT in Calgary, and received her paralegal certification from Capilano University.
Before becoming Director of Knowledge Management, Sarah was a legal assistant at Woodward and Company for six years. Across both positions, her inherent desire to be of service and help others sees her thrive in her work, while her creativity, sharp memory, and love of software means she is able to bridge valuable connections between information and people.
With an eye for the future, Sarah is committed to developing her role into a force that supports the whole firm and contributes to everyone feeling more empowered in their work and connected to their colleagues.
Outside of work, she enjoys hiking in the woods, being near the ocean, and spending time with her husband, two daughters, and their yellow labrador.
Job Titles:
- Assistant
- Support Staff Member
- Assistant at Woodward and Company
- Senior Legal Assistant
Sasha, a legal assistant at Woodward and Company, brings a strong background in social work counselling and paralegal work to her current role, within which she's deeply committed to providing clients with the highest quality of work possible.
Though she now lives on the island, Sasha grew up in Toronto and spent time living in Calgary. She attended Humber College's Social Service Worker program and graduated with honours, furthering her education at York University where she earned a Bachelor of Social Work. She then went back to attend Humber College again, this time as a student in the Law Clerk program, from which she graduated with honours.
Her social work role saw her providing meaningful support to marginalized women and children. From there, she pivoted her career towards law and began working as a legal assistant and law clerk/paralegal specializing in patents for national and international firms. A diligent and eager member of the team, her current position at Woodward and Company centers around the creation and maintenance of corporations, and assisting in the day to day needs of the firm's corporate lawyers with solicitor work.
Outside of work, Sasha is interested in camping, hiking, gardening, intersectional feminism, anti-oppression, and most importantly, patio season. One day, she'd like to have a large farm or acreage where she can adopt all - yes, every single one - of the abandoned and neglected animals in the world.
In her role as a lawyer at Woodward and Company, Jane has worked on matters pertaining to specific claims, reserve land tenure issues, and wills and estates. In doing so, she brings her years of experience in communications, writing, and education to each of her cases and client relationships.
A born and raised Victoria local, Jane first joined the firm as a student in 2015 and later returned as an articled student in 2017. Before being called to the bar in the fall of 2018, she was a freelance writer and editor, and worked for the city of Vancouver during its Year of Reconciliation in 2013-2014.
Before her legal career, Jane attended high school (in part) at Li Po Chun United World College of Hong Kong. She then studied at Mount Allison for undergrad, where she majored in English and minored in history and women's studies; and she went to law school at UVic. She holds a certificate in editing from Simon Fraser and a certificate in Aboriginal studies from Langara College in Vancouver.
With a strong background in communication, Jane is passionate about providing plain language legal materials to make the law more accessible to its users. She believes in working collaboratively with clients to craft relevant, durable solutions to complex problems. Her work is motivated, above all, by the desire to support Indigenous peoples to thrive on their own terms.
As partner at Woodward and Company, Drew has consistently driven the firm to excel in planning and executing business development strategies. His primary areas of practice are resource law, business associations, tax, trusts, contracts, and strategic implementation of Aboriginal rights and title strategies.
Drew began working with the firm in January of 2004 as a co-op student and became partner at Woodward and Company by 2013. He holds a Bachelor of Arts in literature from the University of Victoria and a Master of Arts degree from the University of British Columbia.
Drew's current practice focuses on strategic negotiations between First Nations, other governments, and resource companies. Across the entire spectrum of his work, he's determined to see Canada, provincial and territorial governments honour the UN Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous People, re-establishing First Nations' control over decisions that impact their traditional lands.
Outside of his practice in the firm, Drew has acted as a Director of the Victoria Cool Aid Society, and is a Past Chair of the CBA Vancouver Island Aboriginal Law Section.
In his role as a lawyer at Woodward and Company, Chris' work centres around governance and land management. Since 2011, he has worked extensively with First Nations on land management and development issues.
Chris is originally from Winnipeg but grew up in Mississauga and Dallas, Texas. Bolstered by a bachelor's degree in political science, he earned his law degree from the University of Texas and a masters in Indigenous governance from the University of Victoria. He was called to the BC and Yukon bars in 2020.
Job Titles:
- Support Staff Member
- Director of IT & Information Systems
An experienced IT professional with a lifelong love of technology and security, Steven is Woodward and Company's Director of IT and Information Systems.
Steven is originally from Northern Ontario, in a small town just north of Sudbury (with The Greater Sudbury area situated on the traditional territory of the Atikameksheng Anishnawbek). He spent many of his childhood summers in the Trois-Rivieres and Shawinigan region, moving to the Greater Toronto region in the early 2000s, and finally to Vancouver with his family in 2020. He is French Canadian and fluent in both French and English.
Steven's career spans nearly two decades in the legal industry, where he's had the opportunity to focus his time and hone his skills in information and data security, resource and project management as well as end-user training and support. Drawing on his high energy, detail orientation, leadership and interpersonal skills, he successfully acts as a security and risk analyst, project manager, vendor liaison, and user advocate. He's adept at managing growth and continuous business improvement initiatives while enhancing operational performance in the areas of cyber resiliency, business continuity, governance and compliance.
Outside of work, Steven's world revolves around his young daughter and husband; bringing joy to their lives through their discovery of the island. An avid outdoorsman, he enjoys cycling, hiking, and stand-up paddle boarding and is a die-hard alpine skier.
Job Titles:
- Assistant
- Support Staff Member
- Senior Legal Assistant
Born and raised in Calgary, Alberta, Tyra also lived abroad for 4 years. Her enduring passion for the environment and reconciliation led her to obtaining her Paralegal Diploma, which she received with honors. With this she started working for the Court of Queen's Bench in Calgary for 7.5 years, fine tuning her knowledge of the Legal system, before going on to follow her goal of working with Woodward and Company.
Tyra's professional plans for the future consist of continuing her education and growing her knowledge in First Nations law and, in doing so, continuing to facilitate and work towards reconciliation.
As someone who finds herself happiest when surrounded by nature, Tyra likes to spend her spare time hiking, biking, and paddling on a kayak, SUP, or canoe. She hopes to eventually buy a small plot of land and have her own sustainable tiny home with a large garden.
As a lawyer at Woodward and Company's Whitehorse office, Gavin provides general counsel services to a number of First Nations. His core areas of practice are modern treaty implementation, employment law, and restorative justice.
For nearly a decade prior to studying law, Gavin assumed a variety of roles within a self-governing First Nation including legislation/policy analyst, implementation and negotiation official, and executive director. He began at Woodward and Company as a summer student in 2015 before clerking at the British Columbia Court of Appeal.
Gavin holds a cum laude law degree from the University of Ottawa, a certificate in mediation and negotiation from the Justice Institute of British Columbia, and a Bachelor of Arts (double honours) in English and political studies from the University of Saskatchewan.
Gavin was a Walter and Duncan Gordon Foundation Global Policy Fellow; a role that saw him investigate the efforts of several Indigenous communities across the world as they revitalized Indigenous laws to shift from conventional Western models of governance to traditional, culturally relevant models of governance.
A Lawyer at Woodward and Company, Caroline's main areas of practice are taxation, business structures, and modern treaties. Within this work, she is passionate about assisting Indigenous peoples in navigating the law in order to reach the dreams and goals they have for their communities - particularly in a northern context.
Originally from Whitehorse, Yukon, Caroline is Southern Tutchone and a member of the Ta'an Kwäch'än Council. She holds a BA from McGill University (2016) with majors in English Literature and Psychology and a minor in Indigenous Studies. She earned her Juris Doctorate Degree from UVic in 2019, during which she received the Heather Raven Leadership Award (2018) and Ann Roberts Humanitarian Award (2019). Caroline is currently undertaking her LLM with a focus on Indigenous taxation.
Before joining Woodward and Company, Caroline was a Justice and Governance student at the Ta'an Kwäch'än Council, as well as a research assistant at UVic to Brad Bryan, working in areas relating to First Nations taxation and business structures. She also acted as a research assistant to the Modern Treaty Implementation Project focussing on treaty financing and fiscal relationships.
In 2018, Caroline joined Woodward and Company as a summer student, returning in 2020 as an articling student. She has been a member of the Law Society of British Columbia since 2021 and was called to the Yukon Bar in January 2022.