Melanie Assiniwe is the Chief Executive Officer of Giyak Mishkawzid Shkagmikwe, where she plans to lead with a deep commitment to Anishinabek values, community empowerment, and transformative leadership.

A proud, yet humble, Anishinaabe-kwe, Melanie lives by the Seven Grandfather Teachings, which guide her decisions and actions in service to her fellow Anishinabek.

Raised in Wiikwemkoong, Melanie brings a profound understanding of Indigenous traditions and governance to her work. Her leadership is rooted in respect, collaboration, and a vision for sustainable, community-driven growth.

Prior to her role as Chief Executive Officer, Melanie learned sound finance practices through her extensive finance and accounting experience, having been a Senior Accountant at KPMG, as a professor at Cambrian College, as a Director of Finance at a Northern Ontario First Nation, and as a Director of Capacity Development at the First Nations Financial Management Board.

Melanie’s career reflects a lifelong commitment to capacity building, accountability, and the revitalization of Indigenous systems. At Giyak Mishkawzid Shkagmikwe, she will continue to champion innovation, cultural integrity, and economic resilience for future generations.