Members of Huu-ay-aht First Nations celebrated a significant milestone on Dec. 16, 2025, by signing a child and family services agreement, known as the yaaʔak̓apʷin (we are embracing) agreement, with the B.C. Ministry of Children and Family Development.
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The Pachena Bay Whalers basketball team is making waves on and off the court. Thanks to a bold new design by Cierra Nookemus, the team now sports custom uniforms purchased with the support of the ḥaw̓iiḥ Council, Suzuki Marine, and Breakers Marine. The uniforms represent a significant boost for the community program, which has steadily built a presence in Anacla.
The Whalers play weekly at the House of Huu-ay-aht every Tuesday evening from 7:30 to 9:30 p.m., drawing together Huu-ay-aht citizens and friends from across Vancouver Island. The team includes local players such as Seth Nookemus, Nolan Nookemus, Issiah Dennis, Ed Johnson Jr., Simon Gurney, and Huu-ay-aht First Nation government staff Daniel Zayonc and Carter Burtlake. Lastly, friends from Victoria and Vancouver also joined to round out the squad.
The Whalers will showcase their new look and strong team spirit in an upcoming match at the Tseshaht Lightning Annual May Long Basketball Tournament. They’ll hit the court at Alberni District Secondary School on Friday, May 16, at 6:00 p.m. to face off against Ucluelet.
Citizens are encouraged to come out and cheer on the Huu-ay-aht team as they represent Nation and celebrate the power of sport to bring people together.
In a heartfelt gesture, the ḥaw̓iiḥ council presented two beautiful paintings to the ʔumʔiiqsu Centre. This unique and culturally focused program opened its doors in January 2025 to keep families together by protecting mothers and children from gender-based and intimate partner violence. It aims to prevent Huu-ay-aht and other Nuu-chah-nulth children and youth from entering foster care, reunite mothers and children who have been separated, and ultimately strengthen families.
Hesquiaht artist Geena Haiyupis created these gifted artworks to symbolize love and support, capturing the sacred bond between mother and child. The paintings are vibrant and full of spirit and reflect a deep respect for the families who call the Centre home. With this gift, the ḥaw̓iiḥ council offers more than just artwork; they provide comfort, connection, and cultural pride. These paintings are meant to show the families at the ʔumʔiiqsu Center that ḥaw̓iiḥ council supports them and that we hope these paintings bring peace, encouragement and a sense of belonging.
Now proudly displayed in the Centre’s common area, the paintings provide a visual embrace and daily reminder of community care and the ties that unite the Nuu-chah-nulth people through art, tradition, and heartfelt connection.
Huu-ay-aht First Nations citizens gathered at the Italian Hall in Port Alberni on Sunday, December 15, for a festive Holiday Dinner Gathering hosted by Ḥaw̓iiḥ. This was the first year that Ḥaw̓iiḥ hosted a Holiday Dinner and it was successful. The event was filled with holiday cheer, featuring the theme “ugly sweaters.”
The evening kicked off at 4 p.m. with attendees exchanging greetings and excitement. Huu-ay-aht Cultural Support Worker Mel Edwards led the Opening Ceremony, setting the tone for the celebration. A traditional holiday dinner was served soon after, bringing the community together to enjoy delicious food and festive spirit.
The highlight of the evening was the Ugly Sweater Contest, where attendees were encouraged to showcase their best (or worst) holiday attire. Becki Nookemis took first place, Theresa Nookemus came second, and Rena Johnson finished third. Several door and cultural prizes were also given out, including an early bird prize, a drum, which was won by Harry Brossault.
A special surprise visit from Santa Claus capped off the evening. Mr. Claus greeted nearly 80 children, ranging from infants to 18-year-olds, and each child received a gift, including a teddy bear. The Port Alberni Bulldogs Hockey Team and the Toy Run Association donated the teddy bears.
The event concluded with a Culture Night, where citizens participated in singing, dancing, and drumming, celebrating Huu-ay-aht traditions. The evening was a memorable and joyous occasion, bringing the community together for a holiday celebration filled with food, laughter, and culture.
Ḥaw̓iiḥ would like to thank the citizens who attended, Hinatinyis for serving as MC, and the planning committee who supported the organization of this event. Additionally, they wish everyone a happy and safe holiday season and a wonderful new year.
Children and Youth Ages 7 – 18
Join HoopLife and Huu-ay-aht First Nations in Anacla on Monday, August 26 and Tuesday, August 27, for a two-day Basketball Camp at the House of Huu-ay-aht. This camp is open to all Huu-ay-aht Citizens ages 7 – 18, and the ages will be broken into two groups: 13 and under and 18 and under. These two groups have different start and end times. Children and youth in the 13 and under group will be 9 A.M. to 12 P.M. and 18 and under will be 1 – 3 P.M.. Over the two days, participants will learn proper shooting form, defensive skills, advanced dribbling, and high-level scoring. For further information or questions, please get in touch with Kerry-Ann at kerry-ann.c@huuayaht.org or 250-723-0100.
