Chief Crystal Smith to Receive 2025 Testimonial Dinner Award

Chief Crystal Smith of the Haisla First Nation will be honored with the 2025 Testimonial Dinner Award on February 7. The award recognizes her exceptional leadership in advancing economic reconciliation through the Cedar LNG project, the world’s first Indigenous-majority-owned LNG facility. Under her guidance, the $4-billion project, set to begin operations in 2028, will be one of the most environmentally sustainable LNG facilities globally. Despite facing significant criticism, especially from other Indigenous groups, Chief Smith has remained steadfast in her commitment to create meaningful opportunities for her community. Her efforts have paved the way for career and entrepreneurial growth within the Haisla First Nation, and her leadership stands as a model of resilience and determination in the ongoing pursuit of self-determination for Indigenous communities.