The NWT Status of Women Council
Board members are appointed by the Minister Responsible for the Status of Women. The Board is comprised of six (6) members and each member represents a region of the territory. Board members serve for a term that is up to three years. The Board typically meets face-to-face twice a year and holds additional virtual meetings as required. The Board directs the agency’s activities and efforts to achieve our vision and mission. Accordingly, our Board is a group of women dedicated to improving the lives of women in the territories. They seek to empower women, to end violence against women and children, and to achieve equality.
Our Board members
Rita Arey
Acting President
Beaufort-Delta Region, Aklavik
Appointment May 2022
Rita is Metis and she is born and raised in Aklavik. Rita was privileged to grow up with her grandmother who spoke Gwich’in fluently. She also had her late mother, aunts, and extended family to guide and support her. These strong women in her life showed leadership, compassion, mental and emotional strength, and spirituality. Rita has always had a passion to help others and is a strong leader and advocate for her people.
Since 2016, Rita has been on the Aklavik District Education Council. She finds this very rewarding as she has been involved in the hiring of new teaching staff, and in the day-to-day activities of the school. Rita worked in the public sector with GNWT for over 37 years and retired from the Department of Health and Social Services in 2015.
She demonstrates a commitment to women in leadership through her professional and personal life and is looking forward to advancing the Council’s mandate and objectives. As a Board Member, Rita will strive to uphold the role and image of the Council, as a public agency mandated to advance equality for women and girls.
Delphine Pierrot
Sahtu Region, Fort Good Hope Appointed June 2021
Delphine brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to the Council. Fort Good Hope is her home community and she was their first female Chief. Delphine has vast experience in the social services, including being a probation officer, community health representative, and wellness worker.
Delphine returned to college in 2008 and graduated from their social work program. Her dedication to serving her people is evidenced by her returning to the Sahtu where she has worked as a social worker for many years. Delphine is currently the Sahtu Supervisor to the Health Family Program Team.
Delphine also volunteers extensively and sits on numerous committees and boards. During her free time, she enjoys being with family, friends, travelling, and she has a passion for cooking and baking.
Shelley Browne
Acting Vice President
North Slave Region, Yellowknife Appointed January 2022
Biography pending