We are deeply saddened by the passing of Lillian Hunt, a long-time Vancouver Island Economic Alliance (VIEA) member and board director, on March 3, 2021.

Lillian was a pioneer in Indigenous tourism and experiences, and set an example for BC Indigenous communities to follow. She was a role model for young Indigenous peoples showed how they can be strong in their identity and apply that to being successful in their tourism ambitions. She was considered a “grandmother” of tourism in BC.

Lillian was also a strong believer in a vital and prosperous economy for the Vancouver Island region, and was deeply respected by her own Kwakwaka’wakw Nation and Alert Bay community, as well as across BC.

We have all lost a passionate, progressive, warm-hearted friend and long-time contributor to the values of VIEA and Indigenous culture. Lillian’s kindness and generous spirit lives on in all of us who were privileged to know her. We take comfort knowing she is with the Creator and are grateful for her life.

On behalf of the Board of Directors and staff, we express our deepest condolences to her beloved family, friends, and community.
Gilakas’la, Lillian!