About Me
Jolleen is the daughter of Tracey Watts and Jason Dick, and the granddaughter of the late Hugh & Colleen Watts, and Joan Dick and late JB Dick.
She grew up on Vancouver Island in her home territories of Hupacasath First Nation in the Alberni Valley raised by her mother and grandparents with her two younger brothers. Jolleen’s Nuu-chah-nulth name is suuwayaqawilth which means “somebody that holds something precious for safe keeping”. Jolleen brings her Nuu chah nulth teachings and values into her work in connecting with people and building relationships.
Jolleen studied tourism management at Vancouver Island University, and returned home to focus her efforts towards community building in Hupacasath and the Alberni Valley as a whole. Jolleen is a 2017 Top 20 Under 40 Winner and she’s served her community of Hupacasath as an Elected Councillor for a term.
Jolleen works as a Tourism Development Manager at Tourism Vancouver Island. She previously worked for the Minister of Indigenous Relations and Reconciliation, and more recently as the Indigenous Tourism Specialist for Tourism Vancouver Island in partnership with Indigenous Tourism BC.
In April 2021, Jolleen ran for a seat on Hupacasath Council and was successful in becoming a council member.
Jolleen lives in the Alberni Valley with her partner Paul. They play disc golf on a regular basis and explore the outdoors. On the weekend, she loves shopping at local farmers markets and making beaded jewelry.