The Board of Directors of Dilico Anishinabek Family Care is proud to announce the selection of Natalie Paavola as the organization’s new Chief Executive Officer.
A proud Anishinaabe Kwe from the Robinson Superior Treaty area, Natalie brings deep community roots, strong leadership, and over 25 years of experience in First Nations leadership and community development. For the past 17 years, she has served in multiple roles across the organization, working alongside teams and communities to advance the health and wellness of Indigenous people.
Natalie is a graduate of Lakehead University, Confederation College, and Northern College. She has also completed several leadership training programs, including Rotman Leadership, the First Nations Health Managers Association (FNHMA) designation, and Leadership Thunder Bay. Her educational background and ongoing commitment to learning have helped shape her collaborative and action-oriented leadership style.
Natalie is a respected leader known for her passion for culturally grounded care, and dedication to holistic community wellness. She has played a key role in expanding Dilico’s continuum of care, helping to ensure that services are not only comprehensive but also delivered locally. Her efforts have brought forward new proposals and welcomed new practitioners to help meet the needs of First Nations families each year.
Her work is rooted in the founding vision of the agency—services created by First Nations, for First Nations—and guided by a deep belief that today’s efforts lay the foundation for the well-being of future generations.
“I am honoured to step into this role and continue the important work started by our leaders before me,” said Natalie Paavola. “I will work hard every day to ensure that the services we deliver reflect the needs of the people—created by First Nations, for First Nations. Together, we will continue to build strong, culturally grounded services that reflect who we are as Anishinabek people.”
The Board extends its full support and heartfelt congratulations to Natalie as she steps into this important new chapter of leadership. Her extensive experience, cultural knowledge, and unwavering commitment to the well-being of children, families, and communities have long been an asset to Dilico. As Chief Executive Officer, Natalie’s leadership will continue to guide the organization with strength and purpose, ensuring that our work remains rooted in Anishinabek values and responsive to the evolving needs of the communities we serve. We look forward to the continued growth of Dilico Anishinabek Family Care under her guidance, as we work together to build healthy, thriving communities for generations to come.