Angela Saunders

Angela Saunders

Associate Chief Executive Officer
First Nations of Northern Manitoba Child and Family Services Authority

Angela Saunders is the Associate Chief Executive Officer of the First Nations of Northern Manitoba Child and Family Services Authority, bringing over 18 years of experience in child welfare and policy advocacy. Since joining the Northern Authority in 2020 as a Senior Policy Analyst, Angela has played a key role in advancing policies that support the well-being of children and families. In July 2024, she was promoted into the role of Associate Chief Executive Officer, where she continues to champion the rights of First Nations children and advocate for inclusive, community-driven services.

Originally from Norway House Cree Nation, Angela was raised with a deep connection to the land and waterways, shaping her strong commitment to community-driven solutions. Her career in child welfare began in 2006 with Kinosao Sipi Minisowin Agency (KSMA), where she worked for 14 years in various roles across both the Norway House Cree Nation Head Office and the Winnipeg Sub-Office. This experience allowed her to develop a deep understanding of social issues, best practices, policy barriers, and the complexities of the child welfare system.

Angela's academic journey reflects her dedication to lifelong learning. She graduated from a training and technical institute in 2005 before earning an undergraduate degree from the University of Manitoba in 2016. She has also completed several certificate programs to enhance her skills and leadership capabilities. In 2024, Angela returned to post-secondary education and is currently pursuing a second degree to further strengthen her knowledge and advocacy efforts.

Throughout her career, Angela has remained committed to a grassroots approach, ensuring that the voices of children, families, and communities are represented at both policy and political levels. She is a strong advocate for the unique needs of First Nations communities in Northern Manitoba and has been a powerful voice for the agencies mandated by the Northern Authority. Her dedication extends beyond professional work-she has personally opened her home to children in need and has been a vocal advocate for inclusive services for children with disabilities, sharing her experiences to foster greater understanding and support for neurodiverse children.

Angela is deeply committed to serving the children and families of Northern First Nations in Manitoba. She remains steadfast in upholding the inherent rights and responsibilities given by the Creator to protect and care for all children, ensuring that their voices and needs are prioritized in all aspects of service delivery and advocacy.