Deputy Minister, Indigenous Services Canada
Meet Gina Wilson, a grandmother and proud Algonquin, currently serving as the Deputy Minister of Indigenous Services Canada. Gina's journey is a testament to her lifelong commitment to Indigenous issues and her remarkable leadership in various capacities. Gina's career began in her First Nation community of Kitigan-Zibi, where she served as the Director of Health and Social Services. Her roles expanded to include positions such as Child Welfare Advisor, Director of Health & Social Services, and Chief Executive Officer with the Assembly of First Nations. In 1996, Gina transitioned to the Federal Government, marking the beginning of her influential tenure. She held key executive positions across various departments, including the Privy Council Office, Aboriginal Affairs and Northern Development Canada, Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC), and the Correctional Service of Canada.
A pivotal moment in Gina's career was her role as Assistant Deputy Minister (ADM), Indian Residential Schools Resolution Canada. Here, she oversaw the implementation of the Indian Residential Schools Settlement Agreement and the Prime Minister's Apology to Survivors of Residential Schools in 2010.
Gina's journey continued with significant contributions, including her role as Senior ADM of Regional Operations at the then Indian & Northern Affairs Canada and ADM of Treaties and Aboriginal Government at INAC. Notably, she held the position of Deputy Minister of Women & Gender Equality in 2017 and was later appointed Deputy Minister of Public Safety Canada in 2019.
In 2021, Gina rejoined Women and Gender Equality Canada as Deputy Minister, building upon her previous leadership from 2017 to 2019. During this time, she led the establishment of WAGE as a new department, championed the full institution of GBA Plus in government, and chaired the federal Indigenous Women’s Circle.
Gina's impactful journey also includes her role as Deputy Minister, Diversity and Inclusion and Youth, and Senior Associate Deputy Minister, Canadian Heritage. In this capacity, she oversaw the release of Canada’s first-ever State of Youth Report, engaged Canadians in anti-racism initiatives, co-developed the Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls National Action Plan, and launched the development of a Canada-wide LGBTQ2 Action Plan.
Recognized for her outstanding leadership, Gina is the recipient of the 2020 Indspire Award. She holds a Bachelor of Social Sciences from the University of Ottawa. Gina continues to be a driving force in shaping policies, promoting diversity, and advocating for Indigenous communities across Canada.
Social Media Handles:
LinkedIn: Gina Wilson
Twitter: Gina Wilson (@GinaMWilson1967)