YWCA NWT Board of Directors 

Julie's bio In her previous role as Minister of Health and Social Services, Julie was the Chair of the Special Committee to Increase the Representation of Women in the Legislative Assembly. In the 2019 election, the representation of women increased from two of 19 members to nine, with an additional woman member added during a by-election. Prior to being elected, she worked with representatives from the GNWT, Indigenous governments, municipal governments and the business sector, she helped create the territorial anti-poverty strategy and action plan, Building on the Strengths of Northerners. She has a particular interest in assisting seniors to age in place and providing harm reduction services to the homeless population. Julie spent 16 years reporting for CBC, leaving in 2009 to focus on advocating and fundraising for services centered on vulnerable women, families and children at the YWCA NWT. She previously served on the YWCA NWT Board of Directors 20 years ago, serving three terms, including one as president. Julie then worked as an employee of YWCA NWT from 2009-2015, where she focused on advocacy, fund raising, and developing partnerships. Reach Julie at president@ywcanwt.ca

Stacey's bio Sì Stacey Drygeese Sundberg Siyeh, My name is Stacey Drygeese Sundberg Sezha Kǫnaìtł’iì wìyeh My sons name is Spark ⚡️of Lightning Dozhi he Nawho- Darren Marlowe wìyeh My partners name is Darren Marlowe T’e?ehdaa Do-an-te I am from Dettah Semo Maro Mom is Mary Rose Seta Brian Dad is Brian Semba Charlene Older sister is Charlene Sede Tammy Younger sister Tammy Setsi Mary Louise Drygeese My grandmother Mary Louise Drygeese Se?è Semoò Ło Lots of uncles and aunties Seotii Modaa T’è?ehdaà, Ndilo nah deh, Behchoko, LutsëlK’e, Hotindaa ne, ehtso Koin deh negede My extended families live in Dettah, Ndilo, Rae, Snowdrift, in the Arctic and relatives down south. In Dene Unity, Mahsì cho

Lynn's bio Lynn has worked side by side with many different advocacy organizations in victims’ services and has dedicated her time to other boards including the Aurora College Board of Directors and the Fort Smith Metis Council. With previous experience working with vulnerable people and families, knowledge of housing policy and advocacy and marketing/communications, Lynn also believes everyone has a right to support and that YWCA NWT provides this critical support to people in all walks of life as they heal and move forward in their lives. Lynn currently works at the NWT Association of Communities.

Kathy's bio Kathy joined the board in 2019, wanting to contribute further to the YWCA NWT after enjoying 3 years of volunteering with GirlSpace, the organization's leadership program for girls. She brings with her many years of volunteer and leadership experience in nonprofit and public sector settings. She spends most of her free time with her family, chasing after her toddler, reading, trialing new hobbies, or trying to improve old ones, such as running or baking sourdough bread.

Kate's bio As someone who previously benefitted by the YWCA’s services and programs, Kate wanted to give back to the organization that she felt played an integral part of who she became, and felt the YWCA NWT helped her to get back on her feet and helped guide her to where she is in her life now. Kate’s insight and experience is a great asset to the Board and she is skilled in strategic planning and budget oversight, with an interest in learning more about these topics as well as different ways to grow professionally. Kate is a good relationship builder and is passionate about helping to guide people to make the right choices for themselves, their families, and the community as a whole. She works in Human Resources with the territorial government.

Aïda's bio Aïda joined the board of the Y in 2023 to contribute to positive changes for women and families. She brings a strong experience serving on other non-profits' boards and her dedication to bridge climate and social justice. In winter, you will find Aïda cross-country skiing or checking her fishnet with her family and friends – canoeing and practicing archery in summer.

Lorraine's bio: Lorraine is deeply committed to supporting women and families, a dedication reflected in both her professional and community involvement. With firsthand experience at Alison McAteer House, she supported women and children fleeing violence, an experience that reinforced her belief in the transformative power of timely support and community strength. She currently serves as a Program Development Specialist with the territorial government and also leads entrepreneurial initiatives that empower youth through mentorship and leadership development. Passionate about equity and well-being, Lorraine is proud to contribute to the mission of YWCA NWT as a board member.

Bianca's bio Bianca has been in the human service field since 2010, working with a variety of individuals and families with various needs. Bianca has had work experience with non-profit government and territorial government and was previously employed with the YWCA NWT Housing Department and is very familiar with the YWCA mandate, values, services and programs. Bianca has always had a passion for promoting and improving individual, family and community wellness and advocating for supports to address the presence of challenges. Bianca's frontline social work experience has reinforced her compassion to strive better serve the needs of others, desire to advocacy for those who need support and most importantly listen, ensure others are heard and included. Bianca is proud to be a member of the YWCA NWT board of directors and be a part of the governance and development initiatives of the organization.

Rami's bio Rami brings a wealth of experience and skills to the YWCA NWT board including government relations, board governance and operations, owning/operating real estate businesses, and her previous experience working with vulnerable populations, where she is very invested in participants growth and development. Rami has previous experience serving on NWT non-profit boards and is a previous member of the Yellowknife Immigration Advisory board. Rami runs a bi-weekly women’s circle to support and help connect local women with each other. Rami works in policy development with the Federal government.