11/07/2025
Meet rising political star Á’a líya Warbus at IPSS!
A filmmaker, advocate, and political builder, Warbus knows there must be a seat at the table for Indigenous people in BC.
This November 13, Á’a líya Warbus will participate in the Indigenous Partnerships Success Showcase (IPSS) 2025 at the Vancouver Convention Centre West, bringing her unique blend of cultural, artistic, and educational experience to the event.
Warbus, a member of the Stó:lō Nation and daughter of former B.C. Lieutenant-Governor Steven Point, was born and raised on Stó:lō territory. She holds a Master of Fine Arts in Film Production from the University of British Columbia and has worked as a professor in the Indigenous digital film department at Capilano University. Her professional background also includes serving as Director of Cultural Communications at the Stó:lō Xwexwilmexw Government.
Driven by a commitment to community and cultural preservation, Warbus has described her involvement in public life as stemming from her upbringing, being influenced by her father’s focus on Indigenous rights and community building. Her artistic career, including work as a filmmaker, podcaster, and musician, has been guided by her interest in storytelling and uplifting Indigenous youth.
At IPSS 2025, Warbus will join a lineup of Indigenous leaders and speakers focused on “Reconciliation in Action,” a full-day Indigenous-led stream designed to explore cultural insight, business collaboration, and community-driven approaches to economic development. The program will feature keynotes, panels, and workshops facilitated entirely by Indigenous moderators and panellists. Notable names include Crystal Smith (former Chief Councillor of the Haisla Nation), guest speaker Elaine Alec, founder of Naqsmist Storytellers, and panellist Angela D’Amato van den Hout of Nan wúújǫ anawúúdle Restoration Society.
The Indigenous Partnerships Success Showcase is now in its sixth year. Its mission is to highlight practical, Indigenous-led partnerships and economic development opportunities while centring Indigenous voices and sovereignty. The 2025 edition emphasises meaningful engagement, real collaboration between Indigenous Nations, industry, and policymakers, and the kinds of skills, tools, and networks that make excellent outcomes possible.
Warbus’s participation underlines her evolving role, from cultural communicator and educator to active participant in broader dialogues around Indigenous community wellbeing and economic opportunity. Her background in film and digital storytelling, combined with a deep connection to Stó:lō territory and youth mentorship, provides a distinctive voice at what has often been a business-focused forum.
“There has to be a seat at the table,” Warbus has previously said about representation and participation in decision-making. Her advocacy work, especially in engaging Indigenous youth and amplifying their voices through media and education, is a tangible foundation for her role at IPSS. Her upbringing and family life have played a significant role in shaping her commitment, as she personally invests in “building a better future for her family and community.”
While Warbus’s involvement in public and political life is known, her focus at IPSS will centre on community, culture, and education rather than electoral affiliation. Attendees can expect her to speak from the viewpoint of an Indigenous cultural leader who has worked at the intersection of media, mentoring, and community empowerment.
As IPSS 2025 brings together senior executives, Indigenous leaders, and industry partners, the addition of voices such as Warbus’s signals a broadening of focus towards storytelling, cultural integrity, and inclusive partnership models. For those attending, her appearance offers a compelling reminder that economic reconciliation is not purely about transactions, but also about who is at the table, and how history, culture, and youth empowerment are woven into the agenda.
Registration for IPSS 2025 remains open and includes the Summit, The Gathering, and the Gala Dinner & Shared Prosperity Awards.
