The Circle on Philanthropy and Aboriginal Peoples in Canada Announces New Executive Director
MEDIA ADVISORY: For Immediate Release
October 8, 2013
The Circle on Philanthropy and Aboriginal Peoples in Canada Announces New Executive Director
The Circle on Philanthropy and Aboriginal Peoples in Canada,an open network to promote giving, sharing, and philanthropy in Aboriginal communities across the country, has announced the selection of Wanda Brascoupe Peters as its new executive director. Wanda will fill the vacancy created by Elisa Levi’s departure in April when she joined as director the Strategy Implementation of First Nations, Inuit and Métis Cancer Control at Canadian Partnership Against Cancer. The selection was made after a national search and selection process.
“We are very pleased to announce this appointment,” reported Victoria, Chair of the Governing Circle, “ Wanda will bring leadership and creativity to the Circle’s projects, collaborations, programs and a deep sense of commitment to the organization. She brings with her a breadth of perspective and experience including passion that is a must-have working in this field”
Wanda is from the Bear Clan, a Mohawk/Algonquin and member of Kitigan Ziibi Anishinabeg. She received her traditional education from her maternal Grandmother (1889‐1978) and her mother. As the youngest of six children it was her father, an ironworker, who shared the importance of a western education.
Following his advice and her sibling’s footsteps she went onto post‐secondary education. In 1999, Wanda began a successful business career when she and a business partner started a high tech resource firm.
Wanda’s charitable activities began as a teaching in reciprocity, a fundamental component of Indigenous cultures. Fifteen years later, her activities have expanded into fundraising and advocacy for organizations close to her heart. Some of the organizations she has been involved in include: The OneXOne First Nations Breakfast Program, First Assist Initiative – a non-profit founded in 2001 that uses hockey to teach the value of education to First Nations youth in Canada, D.I.F.D.- Do it for Daron a foundation that supports programs and initiatives aimed at transforming youth mental health and The Ashbury College Guild.
Known to many as an elbow, Wanda is known as a natural communicator and innate bridge builder. She brings her view that reciprocity and reconciliation are action-oriented words when we allow them to be. It is these skills she enthusiastically brings to The Circle.
Wanda and her husband are happily raising three amazing young daughters.
CONTACTS:
Victoria Grant, ICD.d, Chair of the Governing Circle,
The Circle on Philanthropy and Aboriginal Peoples in Canada
416-999-1978 or 647-348-6800
Executive Director:
Wanda Brascoupe Peters
647-348-6800
