W̱JOȽEȽP (Tsartlip) First Nation achieves FMB’s highest level of financial certification

W̱JOȽEȽP (Tsartlip) First Nation achieves FMB’s highest level of financial certification

May 05, 2026

W̱JOȽEȽP FIRST NATION – W̱JOȽEȽP (Tsartlip) First Nation, a W̱SÁNEĆ community located on the Saanich Peninsula of Vancouver Island, recently achieved Financial Management System (FMS) Certification from the First Nations Financial Management Board (FMB). This means the Nation’s financial management and administrative governance practices meet the requirements of the FMB’s highest level of financial certification, based on internationally recognized standards of financial management.

“We pursued FMS Certification because it is important that W̱JOȽEȽP has strong financial systems in place and that our members can have confidence in how the Nation’s finances are managed,” says Chief Curtis Olsen. “FMS Certification strengthens and standardizes our financial management systems by supporting clear policies, planning, reporting, transparency, and accountability. It also gives W̱JOȽEȽP more room to move on priorities that are important to our community.

“Ultimately, this work signals accountability and good governance; it helps ensure we are ready when opportunities come forward as we continue building a strong, self-sufficient Nation.” The Chief also praised the hard work put in by the Nation’s Finance and Human Resources teams in achieving certification, with special thanks to Steve McKay, CFO; Tara Morris, Finance Operations Officer; Anuradha Walisundera, HR and Office Manager; and Desiré Nicolson, Accounting Technician.

The Nation’s main economic activities, including Tsartlip Fuel and Convenience, are part of the Tsartlip Group of Companies. New development projects underway include renovation of the administration building and an active transportation project, which aim to improve community facilities and accessibility. Boat ramp improvements underway will support better access to the water and enhanced community use.

Housing remains a key priority for the Nation, with initiatives such as the Housing Pilot Project helping to address housing needs. Other community-focused initiatives reflect ongoing investments in health, wellness, and cultural spaces. W̱JOȽEȽP is actively advancing these projects while continuing to explore new opportunities that will strengthen infrastructure, support economic growth, and enhance the wellbeing of the community.

The FMB congratulates W̱JOȽEȽP First Nation on this important milestone in its journey to economic self-determination.

About W̱JOȽEȽP (Tsartlip) First Nation:
W̱JOȽEȽP (Tsartlip) First Nation is a W̱SÁNEĆ community located on the Saanich Peninsula of Vancouver Island, with deep cultural and historical roots in the region. The Nation has 1082 registered members, with 545 living on reserve and 537 living off reserve or on other Crown land. The main administrative offices are located in Brentwood Bay, and the community is one of five that make up the W̱SÁNEĆ Nation. The W̱JOȽEȽP people are signatories to one of the Douglas Treaties.

About the FMB:
The First Nations Financial Management Board is a First Nations-led non-profit organization that supports First Nations in developing sound financial and administrative governance practices. The FMB was created under the First Nations Fiscal Management Act (FMA) in 2006. Services offered are at no cost to First Nations. For more information on all products and services, visit www.fnfmb.com

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Media Contacts:

FMB:
Helen Murphy
Senior Communications Manager
First Nations Financial Management Board
P: (343) 598-2606
helen_murphy@fnfmb.com

Tsartlip First Nation:
Chief- Curtis Olsen, chief@tsartlip.com
Homepage – Tsartlip First Nation