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People

Board Of Directors

Esquao, the Institute for the Advancement of Aboriginal Women, is governed by a provincial board of directors.

The CEO is the only staff member who reports to the board, and all contractors and staff report to the CEO. Elections are held every three years and directors can serve for multiple terms.

President

Lisa D. Weber, K.C.

Treasurer

Lisa Higgerty

Secretary

Eva John Gladue

Director

Thea Abdolhady

Director

Jeannette LaBrie

CEO

Rachelle Venne

Elders Circle and Knowledge Keepers

Bringing unlimited joy and good medicine, the Elders Circle and Knowledge Keepers offer a great connection to culture through stories—providing young women and leaders with support, guidance, and lasting benefits for future generations.

We recognize and value their unique contributions to thought, action, leadership, and conscious change.

Vi Marten-Roberts

Fort Vermillion

Lorraine Savard

Edmonton

Elsie Paul

Edmonton

Hazel McKennitt

St. Albert

Marion Lerat

Calgary

Alma Desjarlais

High Prairie

Myrtle Calahaisen

Edmonton

Mary Brown

Slave Lake

Jackie Bromley

Calgary

Loretta Bowen

Edmonton

Staff

Through our advocacy, programs, and services, we aim to raise awareness of and address challenges and obstacles facing Indigenous women.

Rachelle Venne

CEO

Kerri

Housing Support Worker

Angie

Admin Support

Alison

Skills, Employment & Training

Marta

Finance

Bernadette

Housing Supervisor

Maureen

Program Navigator

Leeanne

Path to Justice Coordinator / Youth Programs Supervisor

Tiffany

Help Navigator

Emily

Administrative Assistant

Sonia

Admin Team Lead