Secretary Rebecca Lavallee was born and raised in Lac La Biche, Alberta and is a proud Métis woman with deep roots in her Métis community and culture. She is the eldest of three amazing siblings, a role that has shaped her sense of responsibility and leadership from a young age. She was raised primarily by her mother, Crystal, with the support of her stepdad, Lorne (Teeny). Rebecca credits her mother with shaping her into the person she is today, preparing her for the challenges, and strength, it takes to walk the Earth as an Indigenous woman. She shares a deep bond with her grandparents and was raised alongside two cousins her own age, who have always felt more like siblings than extended family. Together, they formed an incredible family circle that has been a constant source of strength, laughter, and cultural connection throughout her life.
A recent graduate from the University of Calgary, Rebecca holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology and Visual Studies.
Growing up, Rebecca was always outspoken and deeply connected to her Métis culture. When she moved away from home to pursue post-secondary education, she came to fully understand how much of a fight Métis people have been subjected to in having their rights recognized as Indigenous people. This experience inspired her to use her voice to educate others about what it means to be Métis, sharing her culture and personal experiences along the way.
Rebecca’s involvement in Métis governance began in her high school years, when she worked as a summer student with the Métis Nation of Alberta Region 1 Office. She then transitioned into being the Region 3 Youth representative for the Métis Nation of Alberta Provisional Youth Council. From there, she quickly recognized the importance of Métis youth representation and voices within Métis governance.
Rebecca was elected as the first Provincial Youth Representative for the Otipemisiwak Métis Government in 2023, at the age of 22. Shortly after, she was appointed by President Sandmaier to serve as the Secretary of Youth and Sports. Most recently she was also given the portfolio for Gender Equity, making her the Secretary of Youth, Sports, and Gender Equity.
In her current role, Rebecca is committed to ensuring that Métis youth, women, girls and 2SLGBTQIA+ voices are not only recognized but empowered. She works to create space for their perspectives to be heard, valued, and meaningfully included in critical discussions that shape their communities and futures.