Chief Bertha Rabesca-Zoe

Chief, Chief of Behchokǫ̀

Chief Bertha Rabesca-Zoe is the first Tłı̨chǫ lawyer and a long-time advocate for Tłı̨chǫ self-government and Indigenous rights. She earned her law degree from the University of Alberta in 2003 and has been a member of the Law Society of the Northwest Territories since 2005.

Before returning to serve her community, Chief Rabesca-Zoe worked with the Indigenous-focused law firm Pape Salter Teillet, where she focused on advancing Indigenous legal and governance issues. She played an instrumental role in representing the Tłı̨chǫ Nation during the landmark 2003 Tłı̨chǫ Land Claims and Self-Government Agreement and later served as Lead Counsel during the negotiation of the Tłı̨chǫ Devolution Agreement on lands and resources.

She has since held several senior positions within the Tłı̨chǫ Government, including Director of Planning and Partnerships, Laws Guardian, and Executive Officer. Chief Rabesca-Zoe continues to provide strong leadership rooted in law, governance, and the advancement of Tłı̨chǫ self-determination.