Tewanee Joseph, CEO and Executive Director, Four Host First Nations Society

Tewanee Joseph is a member of the Squamish First Nation of Canada. Joseph grew up on the Capilano Reserve in North Vancouver and was the youngest band councillor ever elected when he took office at the age of 21. Now, as the CEO of the Four Host First Nations Society, Joseph works on behalf of the Lil'wat, Musqueam, Squamish and Tsleil-Waututh First Nations - on whose shared traditional territories the Games will be held - to ensure that the Nations' traditions and protocols are recognized and respected in the planning and hosting of the 2010 Winter Games.

How did the Four Host First Nations Society come into being?
In 2003, a year after Vancouver won the bid for the 2010 Winter Games, I approached Squamish Nation Chief Gibby Jacob and asked him if anyone was coordinating the four bands. Chief Jacob and I met at a Tim Hortons in North Vancouver and I told him that I thought I could do it. He said: "Great. Go for it." And I did. I convinced the band councils that we'd be stronger if we came together. Everyone went for it.

Where did you grow up in Vancouver? When did you develop your passion for sports?
I grew up in what the media often describe as Vancouver's "gritty" Downtown Eastside. And I survived -- with the love and support of my family. With their unconditional support, I learned to reject old-fashioned notions of victimization and self-pity. I also played sports from dawn to dusk: baseball, rugby and especially lacrosse. In a way, lacrosse saved my life and gave me an identity, confidence and sense of power.

You were once a semi-professional lacrosse player. What impact did sport have on your life?
I can honestly say that sport changed my life. It was an anchor for me, gave me confidence and a sense of self-worth. Today, I no longer play lacrosse professionally because I want to spend more time with my wife and young children.

How will Aboriginal groups be involved in the 2010 Winter Games?
The 2010 Winter Games are going to be the biggest potlatch the world has ever seen! We will have an Aboriginal Pavilion downtown, a 65-foot high inflated multi-media sphere surrounded by a Coast Salish longhouse. Here, we will showcase the diversity of Aboriginal art, business, culture and sport from across Canada. Live events will include Inuit throat singing, Métis jigging, hoop dancing, and much more.

What do you like to do in Vancouver on your days off?
Hanging out with my wife and kids is the best. I also have a new hobby which I share with my children: music. I am lead singer and front man for the Aboriginal band - Bitterly Divine. We play rock, blues and have even started to write original material. We're starting to play gigs now and, for me, it can be as exciting as sports.