CommunityDiane Roussin brings her search for ‘the good life’ for families and children to the foundation’s board of directors.
Appointed in January 2018, Diane Roussin is the newest addition to The Winnipeg Foundation’s Board of Directors. This is not her first involvement with The Foundation – she led our Centennial Neighbourhood project from 2004 to 2009, which saw $2.5 million invested in a 10-square block area of our inner-city.
Ms. Roussin has worked on a variety of initiatives, primarily in Winnipeg’s inner-city, that promote Indigenous people’s values, world views and ways of knowing, being, doing and feeling. She was Executive Director of Ma Mawi Wi Chi Itata Centre, Co-Director of Community Education Development Association and is currently Project Director for the Winnipeg Boldness Project, an initiative working to improve outcomes for young children in the Point Douglas area.
Ms. Roussin is an Anishinaabe community leader committed to the pursuit of pimadaziwin (the good life) for all families and children. She is a proud member of Skownan First Nation.
Q: What excites you most about serving on The Foundation’s Board?
I am excited to be a part of an organization that is involved in so many facets of Winnipeg life and has impact on many levels in our community. Additionally, The Foundation contributes at a regional and national level and I hope to understand more fully the significant role that philanthropy plays in flourishing communities across the country. I believe we are all interconnected and all benefit when we share our knowledge, insights and wisdom with one another. We can achieve greater impact when we work collectively toward a shared vision.
Q: You worked with The Foundation on the Centennial Neighbourhood project. How will that familiarity aid you in your new role as a Board member?
Having previously worked for The Winnipeg Foundation is a benefit because I have a core understanding of the organization that allows me to quickly jump in and get right to work. There is much to do and The Foundation has a tremendous workload and responsibility. I am inspired to walk with a team that is so committed to the health and well-being of all Winnipeggers.
Q: What do you see as Winnipeg’s most pressing need?
We are in an era where truth and reconciliation is at the forefront of the hearts and minds of Canadians. We have all been called to action. I feel this is a very pressing issue for Winnipeggers as well and I am pleased The Winnipeg Foundation has seriously embraced this journey of learning and leadership. I am honoured to add my energy and passion to this effort as we create a new path forward together.