New NWAC Executive Director Focuses on Policy and Branding

December 5, 2016 (Ottawa, ON) - The Native Women’s Association of Canada (NWAC) is excited to welcome new Executive Director Lynne Groulx.

A Métis woman with both civil and common law degrees from the University of Ottawa and a specialization in Indigenous law, Ms. Groulx is fresh from a senior position at the Canadian Human Rights Commission. Lynne has already begun applying the guiding principles of corporate business to a non-profit organization with the aim of creating an organization that operates in a manner that is fiscally sound and transparent. Her background in economic development, policy, and business law has provided her with ample scope in addressing the challenges ahead for an organization that must constantly adapt based on which financial resources are available and where political support is coming from.

“From what I’ve observed,” offered NWAC Interim President Francyne Joe, “Lynne is incredibly hard-working, decisive, and self-assured. Lynne’s background in Law has a huge impact on the way she thinks. She quickly identifies what needs to happen next and considers all possible outcomes. Our individual roles and expectations within this organization are going to be more clearly defined and we’re going to be very responsive to our Board of Directors. She’s very direct and positive. I think this ripple effect is going to be felt at every level internally and certainly from the outside as we start taking stronger stances on the issues that affect us.”

In addition to emphasizing branding, marketing, and image, Lynne remains dedicated to NWAC’s core values. “I’m bringing a business perspective to the way NWAC will operate but on a policy level, I’m thinking about individuals and the collective. I want to help Indigenous women and their families and continue to be an advocate for human rights.”

Ottawa can expect to benefit directly from the new leadership at NWAC. When asked where she sees NWAC in three years, Lynne divulges “I see us in a new home that’s welcoming to Indigenous women and reflective of the space we deserve. I’m very impressed by the Wabano Centre for Aboriginal Health and envision the NWAC offices to be similarly designed to be mindful of the women who visit and respectful of Indigenous culture.”

The Native Women’s Association of Canada (NWAC) is founded on the collective goal to enhance, promote, and foster the social, economic, cultural and political well-being of First Nations and Métis women within First Nation, Métis and Canadian societies. As a national organization representing Aboriginal women since 1974, NWAC’s mandate is to achieve equality for all Aboriginal women in Canada.

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Roselie LeBlanc at roselie@sparkadvocacy.ca or 604-928-3233.

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