Xwchíyò:m – Xwchíyò:m (Cheam First Nation), located in the Upper Fraser Valley in British Columbia, recently achieved Financial Management System (FMS) Certification from the First Nations Financial Management Board (FMB). This means the Nation’s financial management and administrative practices meet the of the FMB’s highest level of financial certification, based on internationally recognized standards of financial management.
“When in a leadership position you make decisions for all members,” says Chief Michael Victor. “With this certification, our members are ensured that we are being held accountable for our decisions and have complete transparency.”
Xwchíyò:m pursued FMS Certification as a means of building trust within the community by demonstrating that the Nation’s financial management practices are transparent and of the highest standard. Chief, Council, and senior staff sought to reassure Xwchíyò:m members that strong financial practices will continue even when staff and council members change.
“We wanted our members to know their assets are in good hands,” says Director of Finance Wenjuan Sun. “They are cared for with accountability and a focus on both today and future generations.”
Xwchíyò:m carries out its business activities through its wholly owned economic development corporation, Cheam Enterprises Inc. (CEI), which operates as a community-owned platform for business, investment, and partnership. CEI focuses on sustainable economic growth through real estate development, hospitality and tourism, and strategic partnerships, with active operations including Fraser River Lodge, Cheam Fishing Village, the Xwchíyò:m Market, and the Copper Raven soil facility. As a Nation-owned enterprise, CEI reinvests earnings to support community priorities, infrastructure, and long term economic resilience.
About Xwchíyò:m
Xwchíyò:m is part of the Pelhólhxw Tribe within the Stó:lō Nation, representing the upriver communities of the Coast Salish Peoples. Known as the Mountain Goat People, Xwchíyò:m carries a strong cultural identity grounded in connection to the land, language, and traditions of their ancestors. The Nation consists of two reserves: Tseatah 2, located on the north side of the Fraser River, and the main reserve at Xwchíyò:m. Today, Xwchíyò:m is home to approximately 596 members. While many community members live beyond reserve lands, they remain connected through shared culture, history, and community ties.
About the FMB
The First Nations Financial Management Board is a First Nations-led non-profit organization that supports First Nations in developing sound financial and administrative governance practices. The FMB was created under the First Nations Fiscal Management Act (FMA) in 2006. Services offered are at no cost to First Nations. For more information on all products and services, visit fnfmb.com.
Media Contacts:
Helen Murphy
Senior Communications Manager
First Nations Financial Management Board
613-319-8016
Tony Robinson
Marketing and Communications Specialist
Cheam First Nation
604-794-7924