We are honoured to extend our heartfelt congratulations to Trudy Lavallee, Executive Director of Animikii Ozoson Child and Family Services Inc., on her recent appointment to the 2025 Order of Manitoba. This prestigious recognition reflects her unwavering dedication to Indigenous child welfare and her transformative impact on communities across Manitoba and beyond.
Trudy's journey is rooted in her heritage as a proud member of the Kiashke Zaaging Anishinaabek First Nation (Gull Bay) in Northwestern Ontario. Growing up in Thunder Bay and on her reserve, she cultivated a deep understanding of the challenges faced by Indigenous families.
A pivotal moment in Trudy's career was her instrumental role in developing the concept of Jordan’s Principle. As the Child and Family Advocate for the Assembly of Manitoba Chiefs, she authored a seminal article in 2005 that laid the groundwork for this principle, ensuring that First Nations children receive equitable access to government services without jurisdictional delays.
As a founding board member and now Executive Director of Animikii Ozoson Child and Family Services, Trudy has been instrumental in shaping an organization that honors Indigenous cultural traditions while providing critical support to families. Her leadership embodies a holistic approach to child welfare, emphasizing the preservation and reunification of families within their communities.
Trudy's induction into the Order of Manitoba is a testament to her lifelong dedication to advocacy, leadership, and the empowerment of Indigenous communities. Her work continues to inspire and effect meaningful change, embodying the values of compassion, resilience, and justice.
We at Cochrane Sinclair are privileged to work alongside Trudy and celebrate her remarkable achievements. Her legacy serves as a guiding light for all committed to fostering equity and dignity for every child and family.
