Maria is of Okanagan Syilx and Quechua ancestry, with deep kinship ties across Washington and South America, including Argentina. Born and raised on the unceded territory of the Syilx Indian Reserve, Maria brings a strong sense of identity and purpose to her work as an Indigenous Youth Ambassador with the Global Indigenous Development Trust (GIDT). She is passionate about representing Indigenous Peoples in today’s world while honouring history, following traditional protocols, and producing authentic, integrity-driven work as an Indigenous woman.
For many years, Maria has been actively engaged in community-driven projects as a volunteer, youth advisor, and facilitator. A multidisciplinary artist and performer, she continues to organize community arts initiatives that bring together elders, parents, and children. Her work focuses on transforming Indigenous and Okanagan knowledge through engaging, revitalizing art forms—particularly dance.
Maria’s leadership and creativity also extend into eco and cultural tourism, where she was recognized as Miss World Tourism Canada – B.C. (2023) and Miss Entrepreneur (2023). She is a member of the Westbank First Nation CCG, serves as Youth Representative for her Nation, and contributes her voice as a Youth Representative for the Siya Pow Wow Committee.
