Anna Mary McKenzie is the BC Green Party candidate in Nanaimo-Gabriola Island.
McKenzie is a Cree journalist, policy adviser and child and youth advocate. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in First Nations and Indigenous Studies from the University of British Columbia and serves on the board of tâpwêwin media, according to her campaign biography.
“Anna began her career as a youth worker supporting land-based programming and young people preparing to transition out of provincial care. She has volunteered with the Fostering Change initiative, advocating for stronger supports for youth aging out of care,” her bio says. “Today, her policy work brings her to municipal, provincial and federal tables and she continues to advocate for children and families, including in her role as an advisor with Spotlight: Child Welfare.”
McKenzie has also worked as a journalist, focusing on Indigenous peoples, families and maternal health.
“Her investigation into the province’s use of birth alerts contributed to broader public scrutiny, policy changes, and a class action lawsuit concerning the practice. Her community reporting has also been recognized with a Jack Webster Award,” the website says.
Vista Radio was unable to connect with McKenzie for an interview before publishing this candidate profile.
