Rooted in Responsibility: Chief Otis Guichon and a Vision for Resilience

For Chief Otis Guichon of Tŝideldel First Nation, leadership has always been about balance between people and land, progress and tradition, economy and ecology.

“From a young age, I was taught that the land provides for us, but only if we take care of it. My parents and grandparents lived by that,” shared Chief Guichon. “Those early lessons continue to shape how I lead today.”

This sense of stewardship has guided Chief Guichon through every chapter of his life, first as a community worker, then as both an employee and contractor across many aspects of the forestry industry, including silviculture, before stepping into leadership roles as Chief of Tŝideldel First Nation and as a Director of Central Chilcotin Rehabilitation Ltd. (CCR).

“With CCR, my role is to make sure our community’s voices are always at the table,” he explains. “I work alongside the leadership team to ensure that our projects, whether it’s fuel management, reforestation, or road rehabilitation, reflect Tsilhqot’in values.”

A typical day for Chief Guichon is rarely typical.

“One morning I might be in a meeting about wildfire recovery, and in the afternoon I’m out on the land seeing the work our crews are doing,” he said. “What I love about CCR is that we’re helping to rehabilitate the land through forest management work.”

For Tŝideldel, CCR has been a catalyst for economic and social renewal.

“Before CCR, we had fewer opportunities for our members to work locally in forestry,” Otis says. “Now, we have community members employed in meaningful work that helps protect the land and improve safety for our people. That creates pride and longer-term stability.”

Looking ahead, Otis envisions CCR’s impact deepening across generations. “Our youth are gaining skills, confidence, and a sense of ownership over their territory. That’s how we build a stronger future and this resonates with me as I have five kids of my own, 16 grandchildren, and three great grandchildren.”

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