ONWA CEO, Indigenous Youth, Leaders and Allies to Highlight Global Advocacy for Community Action at ONWA's 55th Annual General Assembly
- ONWA
- 13 minutes ago
- 2 min read
MEDIA ADVISORY | Tuesday, September 8, 2026
WHAT:
The Ontario Native Women's Association (ONWA) welcomes media to a special Saturday morning session during its 2026 55th Annual General Assembly and Leadership Conference at the Nor’wester Hotel and Conference Centre in Thunder Bay.
The keynote address, Moving Indigenous Women’s Stories to Advocacy and Action, will feature ONWA CEO Cora McGuire-Cyrette, ONWA Youth Director, Alysha Wesley and ONWA Board Director, Roberta Wesley, followed by a panel showcasing Indigenous youth, leaders and allies.
The keynote will explore how ONWA engages with Indigenous women and youth, transforming Indigenous women's stories into effective advocacy, policy influence and meaningful action by centring Indigenous women's strengths, teachings and collective power.
The panel, From Global Mechanisms to Local Action: Reflections from Indigenous Youth, Leaders and Allies, will place a special focus on Indigenous youth leadership. Panelists will share how representing and supporting Indigenous women on the world stage has strengthened their leadership and inspired action within their own communities. The discussion will also explore how international human rights mechanisms can be used to advance accountability and create meaningful change here in Canada.
WHO:
Cora McGuire-Cyrette, CEO, Ontario Native Women's Association (ONWA)
ONWA Youth Board Members: Sophia Carnovale, Vice President and Youth Director, and Alysha Wesley, Youth Director
ONWA Board Members: Melinda Commanda, President, Stephanie Mikki Adams, Secretary, and Roberta Wesley, Board Director
WHEN:
Saturday, September 12, 2026
Approximately 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.
WHERE:
Best Western Plus Nor’wester Hotel and Conference Centre
2080 Highway #61
Thunder Bay, ON P7B 5E3
WHY IT MATTERS:
This event showcases the next generation of Indigenous leadership and demonstrates how Indigenous youth, leaders and allies are helping shape conversations on human rights, reconciliation, climate response and community advocacy. It also highlights ONWA's commitment to ensuring Indigenous women's voices influence decision-making at every level—from local communities to international forums.
Media interviews will be available following the keynote and panel discussion. Registration will be required.
MEDIA CONTACT:
Andre Morriseau
Communications Manager
Ontario Native Women's Association (ONWA)
647-970-7661
ABOUT ONWA:
The Ontario Native Women's Association (ONWA) is a not-for-profit organization that empowers and supports Indigenous women and their families across Ontario. ONWA works to strengthen the voices of Indigenous women and advance safety, wellness, justice and equity through culturally grounded programs, services, advocacy and leadership.
ONWA's work is guided by the strength, knowledge and lived experiences of Indigenous women and is grounded in a commitment to creating positive change for Indigenous women, their families and communities.
