Crystal Smith proudly served the Haisla Nation for 12 years—first as an elected Councillor and then as Chief Councillor from 2017 to 2025. Her leadership marked a transformative era for the Haisla people, characterized by bold, community-driven decisions that redefined what Indigenous economic self-determination could look like in Canada. 

With a clear and unwavering vision—and the continued support of past leadership—Ms. Smith helped create a blueprint for prosperity rooted in Haisla values. Rather than managing poverty, the Nation today is managing opportunity, success, and independence. 

A central focus of her leadership was the development of energy projects that aligned with both economic and environmental priorities. For over a decade, she played a key role in shaping the LNG Canada project, the country’s first and largest LNG facility. Under her tenure, the Haisla Nation entered into a joint venture with Seaspan, resulting in HaiSea Marine—an innovative partnership that created the world’s first fully electric-powered tugboat fleet and set a global benchmark in sustainable marine transport. 

Perhaps the most significant milestone of her time in office came in June 2024, when the Cedar LNG Project—an Indigenous majority-owned $6 billion floating LNG facility—reached a positive Final Investment Decision. Located within Haisla territory in Kitimat, Cedar LNG is under construction today, with operations expected to begin in 2028. This groundbreaking project, which received environmental approvals in March 2023, represents the single largest Indigenous-led infrastructure investment in Canadian history. 

These ventures have not only generated revenue, they’ve reshaped the community. With their own-source funding, the Haisla Nation has been able to independently deliver culturally relevant programs and services—without relying on federal or provincial governments. These investments are about more than today; they are about securing a legacy of well-being for seven generations to come. 

Ms. Smith has also been an influential voice for Indigenous inclusion and leadership at the national level. As Chair of the First Nations LNG Alliance since 2019, a Director of the First Nations Climate Initiative (2022–present), a Director on the Board of Taseko Mines (2024–present), and a member of TC Energy’s Indigenous Advisory Council (2024–present), she works to advance responsible, mutually beneficial partnerships between industry and Indigenous communities across Canada. 

Her contributions to economic reconciliation and Indigenous leadership have been recognized with several prestigious honours, including: 

• BC Business Women of the Year (June 2025) 

• Public Policy Forum Honouree (January 2025) 

• Energy Council of Canada ‘Energy Person of the Year’ (February 2025) 

• Recipient of the King Charles III Coronation Medal (March 2025) 

Beyond her professional achievements, Crystal is most proud of her role as a mother to two beautiful daughters and grandmother to two amazing grandsons. A passionate basketball player and fan, she can often be found courtside cheering on Haisla teams or playing with the Nation’s Masters team at the Haisla Recreation Centre. She remains deeply connected to her community and dedicated to its collective health—in mind, body, and spirit. 

Crystal holds a Diploma in Business Administration from Coast Mountain College, a Business Skills Certificate from Thompson Rivers University, and is a certified director with the Institute of Corporate Directors (ICD.D).