Leadership
President
Josie Nepinak is a proud Anishinaabe woman from Treaty 4 territory, with roots in Minegoziibe Anishinabe. She believes in a balanced approach to teaching Indigenous wisdom and healing along with modern Western methods. This promotes the health and well-being of First Nations, Inuit, and Métis people, families, and communities.
Her broad background includes over 30 years in executive leadership, immersed in complex social issues, working with Indigenous organizations, and advocating for Indigenous women and families affected by family violence. Josie has a bachelor’s degree in women’s studies, along with ongoing career development in management. She chaired the Calgary Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women Committee. She is also involved with several national and provincial boards and councils.
Board of Directors
The Board of Directors holds responsibility for the overall direction and governance of NWAC. In consultation with members, the Board provides guidance and passes all resolutions with regard to new initiatives undertaken by NWAC. The Board meets on a regular basis to evaluate, review, and provide direction to the President, NWAC staff and provide support PTMAs.
Executive Council
Josie Nepinak
Edna Howard
Marjolaine Étienne
Jennifer Martin
Darlene Bowen
Iris Lauzon
Skylar Richards
Directors
Gena Edwards
Coralie Gregoire
Karen Polchies
Joely Gauthier
Mabel Brown
Rose Fontaine
Terri Szabo
Brenda Gauthier
Amy Sock
Salena Sylvester
Tara Tootoo-Fotheringham
Corrine Chief
NWAC YOUTH COUNCIL
NWAC’s Youth Council is focused on programs that support young people and providing input on policy and advocacy work which affects Indigenous youth in Canada. The Youth Council also provides an opportunity for Indigenous Youth from across the country become active citizens through increasing their skills, influencing their communities, and learning about governance.
NWAC ELDER & GRANDMOTHERS COUNCIL
NWAC’s Elder & Grandmother Council is focused on advocating for the needs of Indigenous Elders and Grandmothers across Canada. This council also assists by providing cultural support and guidance during NWAC events, workshops and more.
Chief Executive Officer
Madeleine Redfern was appointed NWAC Chief Executive Officer in January 2026 – after serving as Interim CEO since April 2024. Madeleine’s leadership has been critical in navigating the organization through a period of remarkable transition. Madeleine’s mandate is to continue to move NWAC back towards its core mission; authentic representation and collective advocacy on behalf of Indigenous women and girls across Canada.
Madeleine is an Indigenous woman from Iqaluit, Nunavut and a beneficiary of the Nunavut Agreement. Following law school graduation, she became the first Inuk law clerk to clerk for the Supreme Court of Canada. In 2010, she became the Mayor of Iqaluit and served two terms.
To her role at NWAC, Madeleine brings over 35 years of experience in management, governance, advocacy, and both development and delivery of programs supporting Indigenous, northerners and Canadians. Through all of her work, Madeleine strives to serve communities in ways that reflect their values, needs, and priorities.
