Core Staff

John G. Paul

Mr. Paul is the Executive Director of the Atlantic Policy Congress of First Nations Chiefs Secretariat in Dartmouth, Nova Scotia. Taking direction from the Chiefs through frequent All Chiefs Forums and Executive Chiefs Board of Directors and Co-Chairs Mr. Paul provides policy analysis and strategic advice on a wide range of policy issues facing First Nations in Atlantic Canada and Eastern Quebec. The APC Secretariat’s mandate is to research, analyze and develop alternatives to federal policies affecting its member First Nation communities.

Mr. Paul has a Bachelor of Arts in Community Studies from Cape Breton University in 1980 and received his Master of Public Administration in Financial Management from Halifax’s Dalhousie University in 1982. A strong and dedicated advocate for First Nations, Mr. Paul has worked toward positive change for First Nations communities in diverse policy areas for more than 35 years.

Rayleen MacDonald

Rayleen MacDonald supports the administrative functions of senior leadership, including the Executive Director, Board of Directors, and Chiefs, in her role as Executive Assistant with the Atlantic Policy Congress of First Nations Chiefs Secretariat. She coordinates the day-to-day operations of the Executive Office and supports communication between leadership, staff, and partners.

With over 15 years of experience in Indigenous, academic, governance, and industry organizations, Rayleen has developed strong skills in organization, communication, and executive coordination. She has worked closely with First Nations leadership across Atlantic Canada and has previously supported both APC’s Housing and Infrastructure Department and the early
operational work of the Atlantic First Nations Water Authority.

Rayleen focuses on clear communication, organization, and maintaining strong working relationships in support of leadership and regional priorities.
As a mother of two, Rayleen spends much of her time with family and enjoys exploring the shores, hills and valleys of Mi’kma’ki where she finds balance and a strong connection to place and community.

Debbie Christmas

Debbie is a band member of the Paqtnkek First Nation. She is currently employed at the Atlantic Policy Congress of First Nations Chiefs (APC) as the Director of Finance. She now resides in Dartmouth, NS; but her heart is still with her home Community. Debbie earned her Certified Aboriginal Financial Manager (CAFM) designation from AFOA Canada and is currently working on her Certified Aboriginal Administrator (CAPA) designation through AFOA Canada as well.

She has spent her entire career working within the Indigenous Culture. She started her journey working with the Paqtnkek First Nation, located just outside of Antigonish, NS; as the receptionist. She moved from that position to become the Social Development Administration for the Community. Then she moved to the finance field of the organization. She also volunteered for numerous activities and still helps out whenever she is home. In 2009, after 28 years working with Paqtnkek; she decided she needed to expand her experience and skills and became the Director of Finance for APC. All during this time Debbie was active with AFOA. First as a member then as a Board Member of the AFOA Atlantic Chapter. She has served on the Chapter Board for more than 15 years. She is also a member on the AFOA National Board.

Debbie believes that education is the key to moving the Communities forward no matter what your age or background is. She is passionate about her work and the benefits it can provide to First Nation Communities and Organizations. She sees the value and importance of having qualified individuals in positions on the First Nations Communities. Debbie knows that AFOA Canada can provide the skills and learning opportunities necessary to assist First Nations in moving forward while respecting the individual Culture and Traditions of the many First Nations throughout Canada.