Alissa Assu is a mother to Ember and Charlie. She embodies patience and compassion, balancing her roles as a supportive partner for the National Indigenous Renal Transplant Research Project: BRIDGE, and as an entrepreneur. Together with her partner Cody Assu, she runs three Indigenous companies: Bear Essential Oils, RavenSong Soap & Candle and West Coast Wildflowers.

Alissa spent much of her career working as a frontline worker across various Indigenous community sectors. She contributed to organizations such as the BC Association of Aboriginal Friendship Centres, the Urban Native Youth Association, and Gathering our Voices. These Indigenous-led social service organizations promote, develop, and deliver accessible programs and services to support Indigenous peoples living in urban areas and away from home. With over 15 years of frontline experience, Alissa has built leadership skills, compassion, and a deep understanding of vulnerability. Transitioning from frontline roles to leadership positions, she has worked to demystify negative Indigenous perceptions and integrate Indigenous values and conversations at the highest levels of business.