72 years old

By Allison Flett, Regional Municipality of Wood Buffalo

Alice Martin was born on the banks of the Hay River, near Fort Chipewyan in the traditional territory of the Cree and Dene.

As the matriarch in her family, she is a mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and auntie, as well as a friend to many.

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A natural-born leader, Alice easily adapts to her environment and is willing to take on all challenges with strength and resilience. As a residential school survivor, she has dedicated her life to advocating for Indigenous Peoples and creating awareness, encouraging others to speak their truth.

Alice is a university graduate focusing her studies on law to help fight post-colonial systems that are harmful to Indigenous Peoples. She has resided on many boards and committees and was a counsellor for Mikisew Cree First Nation for three years. She is a leader in the Reconciliation Advisory Circle and is often turned to for guidance and direction.

A respected Elder in her community, Alice has always been involved in educating and sharing traditional knowledge. She has facilitated many land-based learning programs and camps and encourages language revitalization. Teaching youth their culture and traditions has always been of great importance to her. A Ceremonial Elder and sacred pipe carrier, she helps facilitate ceremony, encouraging those around her to find healing and empowerment through their experiences.

Alice is a traditional artisan and an active harvester. Hunting, fishing, trapping, and picking plant medicine have always been a part of her everyday life. Thanks to her unwavering dedication and resilience, Alice makes an impact everywhere she goes and in everything she does.