Tsiigehtchic, N.W.T., has a new chief. Here's what she's hoping to accomplish

Charlene Blake, the new chief in Tsiigehtchic, N.W.T., says her number-one priority is to add more wellness programs and address the housing shortage in her community.

"One of the major things that's happening in our community, and our territory, is substance abuse," she said. "My key objective is [on-the-]land wellness, and providing our members with services and supports."

Blake was elected as chief of the local Gwichya Gwich'in band on Monday. She works at the community health centre and previously served as acting sub-chief for several years. She is also a councillor for the Hamlet of Tsiigehtchic, a role she plans to stay in if possible.

She will serve alongside elected Gwichya Gwich'in band council members Dinah Blake, Albert Ross, Cindy McDonald and Jamie Blake.

Blake told CBC she decided to run for chief after some elders and youth in the community encouraged her to put her name forward, and she feels grateful to have been chosen.

"I've been getting hugs all over town, and congratulations," she said. "I feel so honoured."

In addition to addressing addictions, Blake said she is committed to ensuring "good partnerships" with Tsiigehtchic's mayor and hamlet council to address important issues.

Blake says she is also dedicated to working with the Gwichya Gwich'in land claims organization, which represents Tsiigehtchic on the Gwich'in Tribal Council.