Mahalia Yakeleya Newmark is a Tulı́t’a Dene First Nation changemaker, mother, and intergenerational Residential School Survivor.
Mahalia has dedicated her career to supporting women, children and families through community development, policy reform, and systems change. Mahalia has held policy, advisory, and legislative roles, including with the Government of Northwest Territories Executive Council, and was the first Indigenous person to serve as Legislative Assembly Advisor. Her leadership using culturally safe and equitable lenses in housing, health, justice, and education earned her recognition with the 2023 Emerging Indigenous Leader Premier’s Award.
In 2020, she co-founded Strong People, Strong Communities, a public art initiative celebrating Indigenous brilliance across Canada. Mahalia holds a Bachelor of Arts from the University of Denver and a Master of Public Administration from Arizona State University.
Mahalia dedicates her work advancing reconciliation in honour of her Great Grandmother, Harriet Gladue, and her mother, Diane Yakeleya, both residential school survivors.
"Through my work with the National Council for Reconciliation, I elevate Northern and Indigenous voices and advocate for policy that reflects lived realities, not distant priorities. I aim to ensure progress is measured in ways that matter locally, grounded in accountability, transparency, and Indigenous leadership. I want this work to create real impact, stronger communities, and better, more fair opportunities for all people, including our future generations. "
Mahalia Yakeleya Newmark