Victoria, BC / Lək̓ʷəŋən (Lekwungen) Territory – The BC Green Party has announced Gamlakyeltxw, also known as Wilhelm Marsden, as the BC Greens candidate for Bulkley Valley-Stikine in the upcoming 2024 B.C. election. Gamlakyeltxw, a hereditary chief of the Kitwancool Ganeda clan, brings a unique blend of traditional Indigenous leadership and modern environmental advocacy, with a focus on renewable energy and sustainable development.
As Director of Green Energy for the Gitanyow Chiefs’ office, Gamlakyeltxw has dedicated his career to bridging traditional knowledge with renewable energy solutions, ensuring that his community thrives while respecting the land and its resources. He is a strong advocate for the Land Back movement, working toward the return of traditional territories to Indigenous stewardship. Through government-to-government agreements, he actively supports reconciliation efforts, striving to build partnerships that respect Indigenous sovereignty while advancing sustainable development. As a hereditary chief, Gamlakyeltxw embraces the responsibility of connecting the wisdom of past elders with younger generations, ensuring that cultural traditions guide future progress.
Sonia Furstenau, Leader of the BC Greens, welcomed Gamlakyeltxw’s candidacy: “Gamlakyeltxw’s leadership in the Gitanyow community and his focus on renewable energy make him an incredible advocate for both his people and the environment. His dedication to sustainability, clean energy, and cultural preservation aligns perfectly with the core values of the BC Greens. Bulkley Valley-Stikine would greatly benefit from his vision for a greener, more equitable future.”
Gamlakyeltxw expressed his enthusiasm to represent Bulkley Valley-Stikine: “As a father and community leader, I believe it’s my duty to ensure that future generations inherit a world that’s healthier and more sustainable. Climate change is a pressing challenge, and my work in renewable energy has shown me that traditional knowledge and modern solutions can come together to create a brighter future for us all. I am excited to bring this vision to the BC Greens and work toward real, meaningful change.”
Gamlakyeltxw’s deep connection to his heritage, combined with his leadership in green energy, positions him as a strong advocate for both Indigenous rights and environmental action in Bulkley Valley-Stikine.
-30-
Media contact:
Rippon Madtha
Communications Manager
rippon.madtha@bcgreens.ca
Phone: +1 778-650-0597
Biography: Gamlakyeltxw – Bulkley Valley-Stikine
Link: bcgreens2024.ca/your-candidates/wilhelm-marsden
Gamlakyeltxw, also known as Wilhelm Marsden, is a hereditary chief of the Kitwancool Ganeda clan, carrying the name Simogit Gamlakyeltxw since the age of 35. He has dedicated his life to serving his community and preserving his Indigenous heritage, while also championing modern solutions to environmental challenges. Born and raised in Kitwancool, Gamlakyeltxw has maintained a strong connection to the land, which informs his leadership and vision for sustainable development.
In his role as Director of Green Energy for the Gitanyow Chiefs’ office, Gamlakyeltxw has been at the forefront of integrating traditional knowledge with renewable energy initiatives. His work focuses on developing clean energy projects that not only reduce carbon emissions but also respect the cultural and environmental values of his community. His leadership in this area has helped to bridge the gap between Indigenous traditions and modern technology, creating sustainable solutions for the future.
Gamlakyeltxw’s background in computer technology, combined with his experience as a GIS technician, has given him a unique perspective on how to use technology to benefit Indigenous communities. He is committed to ensuring that his people can thrive in a rapidly changing world while maintaining their cultural identity and connection to the land.
As a father of three sons, Gamlakyeltxw is deeply motivated by the need to address climate change and build a more sustainable world for future generations. His personal passions include off-grid farming, which reflects his commitment to self-sufficiency and environmental stewardship. He is dedicated to passing on the knowledge he has gained from his elders to the younger generation, ensuring that the wisdom of the past continues to guide the future.
Gamlakyeltxw’s leadership, both within his community and in his work on green energy, makes him a strong advocate for environmental sustainability, Indigenous rights, and community resilience. His candidacy for Bulkley Valley-Stikine represents a commitment to creating a sustainable, equitable future for all.
Photo attached
About the BC Green Party
Established in February 1983, the BC Green Party holds the distinction of being the oldest Green Party in North America. With a history rooted in environmental advocacy, social justice, and sustainable economics, the BC Greens have consistently been on your side, working within government to enact policies that reflect these core values. As an active member of the Global Greens, the party is part of a worldwide network of municipal, regional, and national parties that uphold six fundamental principles: sustainability, participatory democracy, social justice, ecological wisdom, non-violence, and respect for diversity. This commitment ensures that the BC Green Party remains a pivotal force in shaping a sustainable and equitable future.newsroom@greenparty.bc.ca
Phone: +1 250-418-5528
