Tansi, Boozhoo, my name is Andrea Baedak. I am a Metis citizen of the Metis Nation British Columbia, originally from Treaty 1 Territory, with a career dedicated to advancing human rights, Indigenous self-determination and narrative sovereignty. We are operating in a rapidly shifting political and social landscape where fundamental human rights are increasingly at risk, and this is what brings me to volunteer for this work with Amnesty International Canada. I believe my experience in governance, policy advocacy and media strategy aligns directly with the leadership and direction, governance, financial oversight, and policy development responsibilities of Amnesty International Canada’s Board of Directors, as well as the decision-making, representation and leadership elections roles within the Global Delegation.
As the founder of Michif Media and the Indigenous Communications and Media Institute (ICMI), I have demonstrated strategic leadership and direction by building platforms that amplify Indigenous voices, challenge systemic injustices and promote human rights through storytelling. My experience in governance includes working as a consultant, providing government relations, advising non-profits, and managing issues. I served as a consultant to CBC for several years, leading a successful CRTC campaign for the CBC’s application to operate a new FM radio station in Vancouver. I also developed their citizen journalism training and have worked to ensure responsible representation of Indigenous issues in mainstream media. I have experience in financial oversight, having managed budgets and fundraising efforts.
My experience in policy development is evident. I successfully shaped electoral policy to uphold the voting rights of unhoused citizens, worked with Stephen Lewis to frame housing as a human right, and persuaded The Globe and Mail to produce its first-ever series on homelessness and mental health back in 2004. These experiences showcase my ability to navigate complex policy landscapes, ensuring that human rights remain central to decision-making.
On the international stage, I am committed to strengthening decision-making processes that reflect the diverse voices of human rights defenders, particularly Indigenous Peoples who have long been excluded from key global discussions. My experience engaging with media, government, and advocacy organizations provide me with the ability to serve as a strong representative for Amnesty International Canada at the Global Assembly, ensuring that grassroots movements and underrepresented perspectives are brought into Amnesty’s global strategies. As well, my MBA in Indigenous leadership will help me contribute and support governance structures that uphold Amnesty’s mission.
Last year I completed the Tribal Leadership program at Harvard Executive Business School on Leading People and Investing to Build Sustainable Communities. My consulting work over nearly 25 years has been focused on issues related to poverty, mental health & addictions, housing and HIV, bringing a decolonized lens to find solutions and build understanding, relationships and I have worked hard to advocate for change.
I am deeply committed to Amnesty International’s role in advocacy, accountability and global solidarity, and I would be honoured to contribute my expertise in guiding Amnesty’s governance, policies, and global engagement.
Thank you for your consideration!
