Valerie Quintal is a proud Métis woman and lifelong resident of Conklin, Alberta. Her Métis lineage spans many generations over the last century. Valerie’s ancestors lived off the land where they trapped, hunted, fished, and harvested. This strong connection to Métis culture and values continues to live on in her family today. Valerie’s grandmother, Elsie Boostrom, was well known for her moose hide tanning, handcrafted mukluks, and beautifully beaded slippers.

Valerie began working at a young age where she cooked in camps and catered at community events. These early experiences helped shape her lifelong commitment to service and hospitality. She worked for the Regional Municipality of Wood Buffalo for 25 years before taking early retirement to assist with her mother’s janitorial business, always staying grounded in family and hard work.

Today, Valerie serves as President of Conklin Métis Local 193, Vice President of the Conklin Community Association, and a Board Member of the Conklin Resource Development Advisory Committee. She is also the Secretary of Housing and Infrastructure with the Otipemisiwak Métis Government, where she contributes to key initiatives like the Cecil Bellrose Manor and other programs that support Métis families through housing and infrastructure development.

As the Provincial Secretary of Housing and Infrastructure, Valerie serves on Métis Housing’s board and offers her leadership in discussions shaping long-term housing-related solutions. She has been remarkable in supporting initiatives related to programming and creating more housing options for Métis Albertans. She is very focused on her approach to helping elders and seniors.

Valerie is deeply committed to improving life in Conklin. She is particularly focused on addressing homelessness and advocating for better housing for community members. She is proud to be part of organizations that create lasting change and remains dedicated to helping make a meaningful difference. In her spare time, she enjoys cooking, baking, travelling, camping in the summer, and harvesting vegetables in the fall.