Fort McMurray, Alberta – July 9, 2024 –  Girls Inc. of Northern Alberta and Bouchier proudly announce Elder Lorraine Albert as the first Woman of Inspiration for the 2024-25 Series. Lorraine Albert’s selection is a testament to her tireless dedication and unwavering commitment to her community and the preservation of Indigenous culture and traditions.
Lorraine Albert, born in Uranium City, Saskatchewan, moved to Fort McMurray in 1971. Despite spending some time in Calgary, she returned in 2000 and has called Fort McMurray her home ever since. As a Dene woman, Lorraine holds a profound connection to nature and the Creator, and she is often called upon to lead prayers and offer cultural teachings based on the seven sacred teachings and Dene Laws.

Lorraine considers herself an “unspoken leader,” favouring a spiritual approach in her community engagements over a formal leadership role. She participates in various events, sessions, and workshops, providing input, direction, and prayer with empathy and consideration for all. Her presence is a beacon of inclusivity and understanding.
Lorraine actively participates in the Fort McMurray Search and Rescue Society, serves on a board of elders for the public school district, teaches land-based learning survival skills, and imparts cultural customs to young women exploring their roots. Motivated by her family, particularly her mother, daughters, and granddaughters, she advocates passionately for breaking down misconceptions about Indigenous Peoples and raising awareness of Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women, men, and two-spirited people in the region by participating in events like Red Dress Day with Girls Inc., where she spent time talking with girls about the importance of the red dress, praying and answering questions.
Lorraine also supports women who have experienced miscarriages and stillbirths, encouraging them to “take their baby back” by naming and burying them to aid the grieving process. She believes in being there for women in their most vulnerable moments, providing a voice when they feel voiceless. Lorraine states, “When you’re most vulnerable is when you don’t have a voice. When you’re not vulnerable, your voice is big, but when you’ve lost a baby, you’re very vulnerable, and you can’t say what you want because you might be really angry or you’re really sad and not know how to express yourself. I like to be there for women that can’t do that.”

Lorraine embodies Girls Inc.’s three pillars of Strong, Smart, and Bold by advocating for living without fear while being cautious and making smart decisions. She emphasizes that being smart is not just about book knowledge but understanding the world, being open to others’ experiences, and assertively expressing one’s ideas and concerns. She believes in empowering young people by allowing them to undertake tasks independently, instilling confidence in their capabilities. “Let them do the work.”
Girls Inc. of Northern Alberta and Bouchier are thrilled to honour Elder Lorraine Albert as the first Woman of Inspiration for the 2024-25 Series. Her exemplary leadership and dedication make her a standout choice as a Leader for Today.

If you know extraordinary women who are charting the path to inspiration, particularly through decision-making, we encourage you to nominate them today. Together, we can celebrate and uplift the remarkable women who inspire us all.