My name is Xaniimastan, and my English name is Tim Harris. I am a proud member of Stz’uminus First Nation, an educator, community leader, and current school board trustee. Throughout my career and community service, one commitment has remained at the heart of my work: helping children and youth have the support, opportunities, and encouragement they need to succeed.

I hold a Bachelor of Education (B.Ed.) and a Master of Education (M.Ed.), with more than 15 years of experience working directly in education. I spent seven years as a classroom teacher and another eight and a half years as a First Nations school principal. Those years gave me valuable experience working alongside students, families, educators, and communities—and a strong understanding of both the opportunities within our education system and the challenges students can face.

Today, I serve as Assistant Prevention Manager with Kw’umut Lelum in Nanaimo, supporting work that helps keep children safe, strengthens and preserves families, builds connections to culture, and supports community wellbeing. I am fortunate to continue working alongside children and youth as they build confidence, develop new skills, discover their strengths, and prepare for their futures.

Service to community has always been an important part of my life. I served 17 years on Stz’uminus First Nation Council and have contributed to numerous boards and organizations over the years. I currently serve on the Lookout Housing and Health Society Board and the PacificSport Board. These experiences have strengthened my understanding of governance, collaboration, accountability, and the importance of listening to the communities we serve.

Why I Serve

My passion is seeing our young people succeed—not only at school, but in life.

Students come to school with different strengths, experiences, cultures, and needs. Some face social, emotional, physical, or spiritual challenges that can affect their educational journey. I believe our responsibility is to make sure young people know there are people in their corner: people who will listen to them, encourage them, advocate for them, and help remove barriers standing in their way.

As a trustee, I have brought my experience as an educator, First Nations school leader, community advocate, and parent and youth supporter to the board table. I believe strongly in listening to students, families, educators, Indigenous communities, and the broader community when making decisions that affect our schools.

I am seeking re-election because there is more work to do. I want to continue advocating for an education system where every student feels welcomed, valued, supported, and empowered to reach their potential.

Our young people deserve schools and communities that believe in them. I am committed to continuing that work.

Huy’ch’qa.