Á’a:líya Warbus, Member of the Legislative Assembly (Chilliwack-Cultus Lake)
Á’a:líya Warbus is the elected MLA for Chilliwack–Cultus Lake and serves as House Leader for the Official Opposition in the Legislative Assembly of British Columbia.
Before entering politics, Á’a:líya served as Director of Cultural Communications for the Stó:lō Xwexwílmexw Government, where she worked to strengthen community connections, foster cultural understanding, and engage a broad range of partners and stakeholders. She also taught in the Indigenous Digital Film program at Capilano University, mentoring the next generation of Indigenous filmmakers. A filmmaker, podcast host, multidisciplinary artist, and advocate, her creative work, showcased at festivals, exhibits, and community events across British Columbia since 2005, amplifies Indigenous voices and fosters dialogue on cultural resilience, language, governance, and connection to land. She is also deeply engaged in advocacy with Indigenous youth, helping to elevate their stories and support their leadership.
As an MLA, Á’a:líya brings a strong voice for Indigenous rights, cultural preservation, and community well-being. She is passionate about advancing opportunities that support Indigenous leadership in economic development and promoting collaborative relationships between Indigenous communities, industry, and government.
Á’a:líya holds a Master of Fine Arts and a Bachelor’s degree in Film Production from the University of British Columbia. A proud mother of three, her family and community have always been her primary source of strength and inspiration. She also comes from a family with deep roots in Indigenous leadership and public service; her father, Steven Point (Xwĕ lī qwĕl tĕl), served as Lieutenant Governor of British Columbia and Chief Commissioner of the BC Treaty Commission. Á’a:líya’s mother is a leading voice in Indigenous education serving as Chancellor of UFV until 2018, working with the National Assembly of First Nations, along with many other institutions and organizations as an advisor.
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