Tsuut’ina Family Lineage: Big Plume, Big Crow, Many Horses and Many Swans
Rooted in family and tradition, Kelsey Big Plume’s lifelong devotion to the Tsuut’ina Nation began from a young age, when she was inspired by her father, Chief Sandford Big Plume. His unwavering commitment to serving the Nation instilled in her a deep understanding of leadership. Witnessing the limited presence of women in leadership roles, Kelsey became determined to change that narrative, stepping forward to represent and empower the female voice within the Nation. Today, she leads as a mentor, advocate, and mother, ensuring that every decision honors the values and traditions of the Tsuut’ina people.
Kelsey’s life is a blend of professional achievement and personal fulfillment. With a Bachelor of Arts in Communication and Culture, Kelsey is a skilled communicator and a passionate advocate for the Tsuut’ina Nation. She has built a career grounded in service and collaboration, currently serving on the Tsuut’ina Nation Housing Corporation Board, and has previously held positions on the Education Board and the Tsuut’ina/Stoney Corrections Society. She has also chaired or contributed to committees focused on health, human resources, strategic planning, Treasury, and the Annual Celebrations & Pow Wow. Her work has positively shaped the Nation, always promoting teamwork, open dialogue, and care for the Nation.
This term, Kelsey’s goals are clear: strengthen governance rooted in Tsuut’ina law; pursue economic independence through diverse development and sound financial processes; close gaps in housing, infrastructure, health, and education; and revitalize language and culture. Through transparency and accountability, she honors the resilience and generosity that define her Nation.
As a mother, Kelsey finds her greatest pride in raising her children the Tsuut’ina way, drawing strength from her family and daily cultural teachings, and instilling in them the values of resilience, generosity, and humor. Whether cheering at hockey games or gathering ribbon skirts for ceremonies, her connection to her roots is at the heart of everything she does. She finds joy in sports, music, and time with family, always nurturing the strengths that make the Tsuut’ina Nation thrive.
