The National Council for Reconciliation’s inaugural Board of Directors guided the organization through its foundational phase, helping establish the governance structures, policies and organizational groundwork needed for long-term independence.
With that foundation in place, the Council has transitioned to its first permanent Board of Directors, which will provide ongoing oversight and strategic direction as the organization moves forward.
The permanent Board will assume responsibility for the Council’s ongoing governance and strategic direction, marking an important milestone in the Council’s evolution from establishment to sustained independent operations.
Meet the Board of Directors below.
"I walk this path because it's the most important example that I can set for my children, grandchildren and all children. I live in hope for our current and future generations. How can I expect this of others if I don't walk the talk myself?"
Charlene Bearhead, Board Member
"Helping to advance reconciliation honours my parents and grandparents, as well as the countless Indigenous activists and leaders who, along with many supporters, advocate for Indigenous peoples' rights and enable the conditions that support reconnection and revitalization. This is the privilege of opportunity, a privilege that many people before me have been denied."
Jonathan Dewar, Board Member
"Reconciliation is legacy work, a responsibility carried forward by those before, in honour of my ancestors and present-day kin, and for generations still to come. It helps build a stronger, more equitable Canada. Grounded in accountability, transparency, and Indigenous-led approaches, serving communities today and into the future."
Barbara Filion, Board Member
"I care deeply for the community that raised me, and I’m fulfilled when I can contribute to its wellbeing. Reconciliation lives in everyday relationships. My work on the Council supports meaningful progress, strengthens trust, and helps our communities move forward together."
Kilikvak Kabloona, Board Member
"I walk this path because it's important to re-establish respectful, peaceful, and healthy relationships. Reconciliation is an imperfect and difficult practice, not a destination."
Joseph Murdoch-Flowers, Board Member
"I believe in the strength, beauty, and brilliance of our communities, and in a Canada where everyone has a fair opportunity to reach their full potential. I am committed to a future where all people thrive, including Indigenous Peoples. This work is deeply personal. It is for our children, our grandchildren, and those who came before us, including my mother, a residential school survivor who carries this legacy. I dedicate my work to her, my great-grandmother, and all residential school Survivors. "
Mahalia Yakeleya Newmark, Board Member
"Reconciliation is personal, ancestral, and lived in my life. As a Métis woman from Saskatchewan, my understanding of this work is grounded in family history, community, and responsibility to future generations. Throughout my career, working at the intersection of Indigenous communities, industry, and governance has reinforced my belief that reconciliation must move beyond intention into meaningful action. I believe lasting change is built through trust, accountability, respectful relationships, and a shared commitment to doing the work differently together."
Julie Ann Wriston, Board Member
