Every great journey starts with a single step; ours began with a vision of self-reliance and prosperity for our Nation. Sqéwqel Development Corporation (SqDC) is the economic engine of the Sq’éwqel (Seabird Island) First Nation in Agassiz, driving long-term prosperity through business development, land stewardship, and strategic investments. Rooted in Stó:lō culture and values, SqDC is committed to advancing financial independence, sustainable economic and business development, and opportunities that support Seabird Island today and for future generations.
Sqéwqel Development Corporation (SqDC) drives economic growth through a diverse portfolio of business ventures that create sustainable revenue, employment opportunities, and long-term prosperity for Seabird Island First Nation. Our businesses span multiple industries, supporting economic self-sufficiency while reflecting our values, community priorities, and commitment to responsible economic development.
Sqéwqel Development Corporation (SqDC) is committed to strategic projects that drive economic growth, strengthen community resilience, and create long-term opportunities for Seabird Island First Nation. Our initiatives focus on sustainable development, infrastructure improvements, and business expansion, ensuring that each project aligns with our vision for economic self-sufficiency and prosperity.
Sqéwqel Business Park offers a unique opportunity for businesses seeking a prime location to thrive. Spanning 50 acres in the stunning Fraser River valley, this forward-thinking development is purpose-built for growth and success.
At Sqéwqel Development Corporation (SqDC), we believe in building strong, strategic partnerships that drive shared success and long-term economic growth. We collaborate with businesses, investors, and community organizations that align with our values and vision. Through meaningful partnerships, we create opportunities that benefit both Seabird Island First Nation and our partners, ensuring mutual growth & prosperity while respecting the land, culture, and traditions that guide our approach to business.
“We are planting the seeds today - growing them with care, dedication, and vision - so that future generations can reap the benefits of what we build together,”
Nigel Selvadurai, CEO at SqDC
Building a Thriving Independent Future Together
SqDC and Seabird Island share a vision of building a self-reliant community where individuals, families, and businesses grow and succeed together.
Bryon keeps the office lively with his tongue-in-cheek humour and quick wit. With a UFV Bookkeeping certificate and the Certified Aboriginal Financial Manager course in progress, he’s always expanding his financial expertise. At SqDC, he plays a key role in keeping the numbers in check, primarily focusing on the Sqéwqel Gas Bar and Nations Creations while making sure there’s never a dull moment along the way. Bryon is married to a member of Seabird Island and is proud to be a member of the Quinault tribe.
Outside of work, Bryon loves to build Lego creations with his son and tests his skills at the poker table.
Fun Fact: While finance became his career, childhood Bryon once dreamed of forecasting the weather on local TV.
Brady Redden
Proposal Writer
Brady has a knack for turning big ideas into winning proposals. With a background in Business Administration from the University of the Fraser Valley, he knows how to craft a message that sticks. But proposals aren’t his only game; he is involved in our various projects and helps train interns.
Outside of work, Brady stays active with mountain biking, snowboarding, hockey, and hiking, but let’s be honest, he spends most of his time on the golf course with friends.
Fun Fact: If drinking coffee were an Olympic sport, he'd be our gold medalist.
Carla Pretorius
Sr. Coordinator of Communication and Engagement
Fun Fact:
Emma Albeluhn
Administrative Assistant
Emma is a recent graduate of UFV’s Applied Business Technology program, which gave her a strong foundation for her journey into the office world. At SqDC, you can catch Emma working behind the scenes, using her keen organizational skills to support all departments while adding a creative touch to social media posts.
Fast and efficient, Emma may be quiet, but don’t be fooled. She’s always listening, learning, and ready to tackle the next challenge with precision and focus.
Fun Fact: Emma would like to work as an artist in the future – but for now, we are keeping her at SqDC.
Rovielyn Correia
Assistant Controller
Rovielyn is the newest member of our team. With a degree in Management Accounting, a License as an Insurance Broker, a Certification as a Tax Professional, a Certification as a QuickBooks Online Advanced ProAdvisor and Certified in Management (C.I.M), bringing the perfect balance to our finance team.
Originally from the tropical paradise of Cebu, Philippines, where the beaches are endless and the scenery is straight out of a postcard, she moved to Canada eight years ago. While numbers keep her busy at work, her passions extend beyond spreadsheets. She loves cooking, baking, wildlife photography, and spending quality time with her family.
Fun Fact: When stress hits, chocolate is her go-to. Luckily, we haven’t spotted her reaching for any at work yet, which tells us she’s settling into her role just fine!
Joleen Peters
Payroll and Accounts Payable
Joleen, a member of Chawathil First Nation, has a sharp mind for finance. She started working at SqDC in July 2024 and easily integrated into the team. While she may have a quiet demeanour, her wit is anything but. Her perfectly timed, clever remarks have a way of leaving most of us speechless (in the best way possible).
Joleen is a passionate hockey fan who loves watching the game from the comfort of her home or the live arena. When she’s not cheering on her favourite team, she enjoys exploring waterfalls.
Fun Fact: If you talk to Joleen while she watches hockey, she will ignore you.
Chantel Walker
Senior Finance Officer
Chantel is practically part of the furniture here—one of the longest-standing team members and a key part of our financial operations. After seven years with SqDC, she knows the organization inside and out and isn’t afraid to speak up when something needs to be said. Raised in Agassiz, she brings experience and a deep connection to the community. Chantel probably has the biggest heart, always going out of her way to help those around her, especially the ones she calls friends.
When the workday ends and the numbers are set aside, Chantel shifts into mom mode, making sure her family is taken care of. She enjoys spending time with family and friends, tackling puzzles, and getting lost in a good book.
Fun Fact: Need a stunning charcuterie board or a perfectly crafted diaper cake? Chantel is your go-to.
Karen is a master of many trades and the glue that keeps our office running like clockwork. If you need to know something or get something done, ask Karen, and it will get done. With a background in management, admin, marketing, accounting, leasing, real estate, project management, and community relations, she is on point with managing our office and industry partnerships. It goes without saying that Karen brings colour, charm, and sophistication to our office.
Outside work, Karen is a creative and hands-on individual who enjoys jewellery making, painting, gardening, cooking, crafting, decorating, and entertaining.
Fun Fact: Karen used to be a competitive gymnast.
Nigel Selvadurai
Chief Executive Officer
"You don’t know what you don’t know." It’s one of Nigel’s favourite sayings, and if you’ve been around here long enough and still don’t know him after working for 15 years at Seabird Island Band, it’s time to fix that.
As our new CEO, Nigel brings a strong background in accounting and investments. He always knows when a good deal is on the table. Running his own property investment company on the side, he’s no stranger to making smart financial moves. Just be warned: If the conversation turns to real estate, you might find yourself scrolling through property listings before you know it.
Nigel holds a bachelor's degree in accounting, he is a Chartered Professional Accountant (CPA) and he is a Certified Aboriginal Financial Manager. Nigel is passionate about building financial and administrative capacity, to ensure future prosperity of SqDC and Seabird Island. When he’s not leading the team at SqDC, Nigel is always on the move. If it’s a sport, chances are he’s tried it, surfing, tennis, swimming, you name it.
Fun Fact: Nigel’s go-to breakfast is a spinach salad. Don’t worry, he adds blueberries and dried cranberries, so it’s not just green.
Jon Espley-Jones
Chief Financial Officer
Jon is the financial architect behind SqDC’s growth and sustainability. Hand him a spreadsheet, and he’s in his element. But finance isn’t the only thing he’s passionate about. Jon runs on coffee, good conversation, and genuine care for the people around him. Whether fine-tuning financial strategies or catching up with the team over a cup of coffee, he brings expertise and heart to SqDC. Jon holds a bachelor's degree in accounting and is a Chartered Professional Accountant (CPA), making him a key player in shaping SqDC’s financial and strategic direction.
Outside of work, Jon loves firing up the BBQ and spending time with his wife, kids and dogs.
Fun Fact: Jon recently picked up a new hobby—drone flying.
