Melissa Aird
About Melissa Aird
Melissa Aird serves as the Vancouver Island Regional Manager for Health and Emergency Management at the First Nations Health Authority, a position she has held since 2020. With a strong educational background in Indigenous Governance and a commitment to improving Indigenous-settler relations, she focuses on developing strategies for sustainable growth in First Nation governance frameworks.
Work at First Nations Health Authority
Melissa Aird serves as the Vancouver Island Regional Manager for Health and Emergency Management at the First Nations Health Authority. She has held this position since 2020, contributing to the organization for four years. Her role involves overseeing health and emergency management initiatives across Vancouver Island, based in Campbell River, British Columbia. Aird's work focuses on improving health outcomes for Indigenous communities and fostering collaboration between health services and First Nations.
Education and Expertise
Melissa Aird has a strong educational background in Indigenous governance and health. She earned a Master's degree in Indigenous Governance from the University of Victoria, where she studied from 2017 to 2019. Additionally, she holds a Bachelor's degree in Multi/Interdisciplinary Studies from Thompson Rivers University. Aird has also completed various certificates, including San'yas Indigenous Cultural Safety Training and a certificate in Aboriginal Studies. Her education supports her commitment to enhancing Indigenous-settler relations in Canada.
Background
Raised on the unceded traditional territory of Tk’emlúps te Secwe̓pemc in Kamloops, British Columbia, Melissa Aird has deep roots in Indigenous culture. Her community and traditional territory are located in northern British Columbia within Treaty 8. Aird's upbringing has influenced her dedication to promoting understanding and respect for Indigenous culture within the broader Canadian context.
Previous Work Experience
Before her current role, Melissa Aird gained experience in various positions that contributed to her expertise in health and community services. She worked as a Disability Case Manager at the British Columbia Aboriginal Network on Disability Society (BCANDS) from 2018 to 2019. Additionally, she volunteered at the Anti-Violence Project of Victoria Inc. during the same period while studying at the University of Victoria. These roles have equipped her with valuable insights into the challenges faced by Indigenous communities.
Focus on Indigenous Governance
Melissa Aird is committed to creating strategies and policies that promote sustainable growth within First Nations governance frameworks. Her work aims to foster positive responses to Indigenous culture within western world views, emphasizing acknowledgment and respect. Aird's initiatives are designed to enhance the relationship between Indigenous communities and broader societal structures, contributing to improved governance and community well-being.