By Cara McKenna

Tanya Corbet spent years working behind the scenes to get Tsawwassen First Nation, where she was born and raised, into the news. Now she’s the one in front of the camera.

The long-time communications pro has a new job with her nation as it moves on massive housing and mall developments that will completely change the face of its land and finances.

It is a big job, but she is pushing her limits further by endorsing a non-profit group based in Delta that helps special needs children and has given invaluable assistance to her nephew, who has autism.

“I’m on the board for the Reach Child and Youth Development Society and the reason why I’m doing it is for my nephew,” she said. “My sister and her family receive a ton of support from Reach… so it’s very important to me to help that organization to grow.”

Corbet’s speaking gigs have so far included an appearance on Global morning news late last year. It’s a complete reverse from what Corbet is accustomed to, which has been connecting eager reporters with contacts from Tsawwassen as the nation undergoes transitions.

In her 16-year career working for the nation, that has included handling communications for chief and council during Tsawwassen’s negotiations for treaty, which was ratified in 2007. It was the first urban treaty in the province, so interest was intense, Corbet said.

“Everybody was interested, especially when it came down to voting day. We had media camped out and then we had a huge scrum,” she said. “I remember the last calls were going until about midnight, and then the phones started ringing again at about six in the morning for interviews.”

From treaty effective date in April 2009

She worked in the treaty office for eight years and another eight years in the chief ’s office as an executive assistance for both former chief Kim Baird and current Chief Bryce Williams, while also handling communications.

Last summer she accepted an offer to work for TFN Economic Development Corporation as manager of community outreach.

She said her new role will have her working with the nation’s members more directly, including supporting businesses through grants and other initiatives. That is something she is excited to work on as she has deep roots in the community. In fact, she currently lives with her family in the same home she grew up in.

“I’m excited to still be in my community because that is what’s most important to me, and just to be part of the progress, moving forward,” she said.

“From when I was a little kid growing up here to now, there are huge changes, but they’re exciting to see… it’s been years and years of planning and to actually see construction and doors opening on the projects is super exciting.”