Josie Hill
For more than a quarter century, Josie Hill has made an enormous contribution to Winnipeg's inner-city. Credited as a champion of a distinctively Aboriginal way of doing community-based work, she has proven that cultural sensitivity is essential in community work. Hill has built an exceptional record in the areas of Indigenous leadership, advocacy and community development.
She is one of the founding members of Ma Mawi Wi Chi Itata Centre (Ma Mawi), Canada's first major urban Aboriginal child and family support program. Hill has patented the concept of a community taking charge of their challenges and creating opportunities. Hill empowers those who experience barriers in our society by opening doors and welcomes their participation. Hill is incisive on issues arising in inner-city neighbourhoods and is a collaborative problem solver. She is a mentor that has earned numerous awards recognizing her commitment to her people, to community and our city.