Ka:’yu:’k’t’h’ / Che:k’tles7et’h’ First Nations
A decade of storytelling and self-determination
Overview
Kyuquot/Checleseht First Nations (KCFN) are a self-governing, self-reliant Nations empowered by their treaty. Our partnership began in 2015, when M1 was invited to assist KCFN in their rejuvenating efforts to rebuild the Bighouse—their cultural heart and house of government that was burned down decades prior by the federal government of the day. Through storytelling and community engagement, we helped raise awareness and $3M in supporting funds.
The Challenge
KCFN needed a partner who could help communicate their story authentically—balancing cultural preservation, community engagement, and advocacy with modern digital tools. The challenge was to develop media and communications strategies that reflected their self-determination, supported governance, and advanced their economic independence.
OUR APPROACH
Over the years, our work with KCFN has grown into a full communications partnership. We designed and developed two websites to support transparency and community engagement, and developed an ongoing video program that now includes more than 90 films documenting governance, cultural restoration, and economic advancement. Our team also supports Tiičma Enterprises through targeted storytelling on major initiatives, while providing consistent communications assistance across departments to help the Nations share updates, advocate effectively, and strengthen connectivity with members.
Partnership
The relationship between M1 Agency and KCFN is a true partnership rooted in shared purpose. Over nearly ten years, we’ve helped the Nations leverage storytelling as a tool for government to government advocacy, inter-Nation communication, training, documenting challenges and success, and economic independence. Together, we continue to innovate—producing immersive films, expanding digital platforms, and training Nation members in media production to strengthen long-term capacity for self-representation. This partnership stands as a model of how collaboration and creativity can drive meaningful change, blending professional media expertise with the resilience and vision of a Nation reclaiming its future.
Results
Through a decade of partnership, KCFN and M1 have achieved measurable impact and lasting legacy through storytelling and communication.
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hours of published video content
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films produced for community and governance
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websites designed and maintained
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raised through storytelling
