Phyllis Mustus
Elder
Elder Phyllis Mustus is a respected Elder and proud member of the Alexis Nakota Sioux Nation, located in Treaty 6 territory. Born and raised in Alexis, she is a recognized Knowledge Holder of traditional ceremonies, cultural ways of life and the Stoney Nakoda dialect. She has been married to her husband Howard Mustus for 59 years and is a proud grandmother to eight, as well as a great-grandmother to many adopted children.
Phyllis actively mentors and supports young women, offering guidance rooted in Nakota ceremonial and cultural traditions. Her deep knowledge has been passed down through generations, especially from her grandmothers, Lucy Susan and Angelique Kootenay. Throughout her life, Phyllis has dedicated herself to serving the Alexis community in various capacities, including roles as an accountant, home care nurse, and Director of the Mental Wellness and Addictions Program.
She deeply values traditional ways of life, believing they ground and nurture the spirit from the moment of birth. In partnership with doulas, Phyllis works to revive and promote cultural and spiritual practices associated with traditional birthing ceremonies. The strength found in these spiritual traditions fosters resilience and well-being across generations.
Phyllis believes that, in order to effectively educate children who have become disconnected from their cultural roots, it is essential to reintroduce land-based learning and traditional Nakoda practices. These teachings offer a vital foundation that is often missing in the home environment. It is equally important to foster awareness and a willingness to learn the Nakoda way of life. True understanding and respect for these teachings come from lived experience. Therefore, one must embody the values and principles they wish to impart—authenticity is crucial, as people are unlikely to listen if one does not practice what they preach.