Khelsilem is a Sḵwx̱wú7mesh-Kwakwa̱ka̱ʼwakw leader with nearly a decade of experience in First Nations governance, including as elected leader of the Squamish Nation Council (2017 to 2025). During his tenure, he oversaw the Nation’s annual budget growth from $74 million to over $216 million, established the first Integrity Office of any First Nation in Canada, and advanced major initiatives in affordable housing, intergovernmental relations, and economic development, including founding the Nch’ḵay̓ Development Corporation. He brings substantial board governance experience as a current director of the New Relationship Trust, and as a former board director of Vancity Credit Union. Khelsilem runs an independent consulting practice focused on Indigenous governance, housing, and public policy, and is completing a Master of Public Administration at the University of Victoria. He is committed to strengthening First Nations-led institutions and advancing health and wellness outcomes grounded in community self-determination. In his personal life, he enjoys supporting Indigenous and LGBTQ+ culture and learning and speaking Indigenous languages.