Ms. Wendy Johnson

Wendy Johnson brings to The Belinda Stronach Foundation (TBSF) a passion and commitment to making a difference in the lives of First Nations, Métis and Inuit youth. As Director of Aboriginal Programming, she is bringing the world closer to children through One Laptop Per Child — providing them with programs and software that lets them connect with each other, exposes them to information and stories of their culture and heritage, and builds their confidence and self-esteem. With alarming gaps in educational achievement being reported for Aboriginal Youth, Wendy’s strong determination and understanding are helping to empower this valuable group, ensuring that their potential is not overlooked. Ultimately, they benefit not only themselves, but their parents, communities and Canadians.

Wendy has had great success in developing innovation and creative strategies and programs with a global vision. Prior to joining TBSF, Wendy was the Vice President of Corporate Affairs and Development for the Aboriginal Human Resource Council where she raised more than $1-million.  She was also a Vice President with Bell & Bernard, a national Aboriginal public relations firm, where she was responsible for developing and collaborating on strategic fundraising plans and campaigns as well as for raising corporate and government funding for these campaigns.
 
For several years, Wendy was the Director of Taking Pulse, part of the National Aboriginal Achievement Foundation (NAAF) that works with industry to present career options through documentaries and supporting curriculum materials for First Nations, Inuit and Métis youth.  The program helps to get youth recruited to careers in various industries and keep them motivated to stay in school. 

Wendy was recruited to the Law Society of Upper Canada as a special advisor to the CEO and Treasurer to forge Aboriginal partnerships and relations between the legal profession and Aboriginal communities.  She has experience at the community, regional and national level in Aboriginal politics and has held portfolios in First Nation governance, land claims, language and racism.  She is currently on the Board of Directors of the KAHA:WI Dance Theatre.

She has been nominated twice for the Premier’s Award for her work in bridging relations and community developments.

Working from her strongly held belief that education is not a privilege for Aboriginal children ― or any child in this country ― but a right, Wendy’s work with TBSF is helping to ensure that all children receive the necessary tools and are afforded the right to achieve and succeed.

Wendy comes from Six Nations of the Grand River Territory, is a member of the Mohawk Nation and is Bear Clan. She is a very proud mother of a beautiful daughter – Hillary.