The Woman Who Transformed Winnipeg's Community

Gisèle Saurette-Roch: A Champion for Community Development and Social Advocacy

Gisèle Saurette-Roch is a distinguished community development leader and social advocate in Winnipeg, Manitoba. With a lifelong commitment to equity and inclusion, she has played a pivotal role in supporting immigrants, advancing women’s rights, and strengthening social justice initiatives.

Advocacy and Community Engagement

Saurette-Roch has been deeply involved with the Council of Women of Winnipeg, an organization dedicated to addressing social issues affecting women and families. The Council’s work spans research, education, and advocacy, often challenging government policies and proposing community-focused alternatives. Through her leadership, she has helped shape meaningful programs that promote inclusivity and social well-being.

Her dedication to social justice has earned her the MGEU Humanitarian Award, recognizing her tireless efforts on behalf of children, families, and unionized workers. This honor highlights her unwavering pursuit of fairness and dignity for marginalized groups.

Transforming Winnipeg’s Social Landscape

Saurette-Roch’s contributions have left a lasting impact on Winnipeg, particularly in these key areas:

• Support for Newcomers: She has played a vital role in helping immigrants and refugees integrate into Canadian society, connecting them with essential resources to ease their transition and build stable lives.

• Women’s Advocacy: As a member of Réseau action femmes (MB) Inc., she has championed gender equality initiatives, helping shape policies that empower women in Manitoba.

• Educational Advancement: Her commitment to education is evident in her support for initiatives like the Golden Anniversary Legacy Fund at the University of Manitoba, which provides opportunities for aspiring social workers to overcome financial and systemic barriers.

A Legacy of Social Change

Saurette-Roch’s work extends beyond direct advocacy—her influence has led to tangible improvements in community development:

• Stronger Social Networks: By fostering connections among diverse groups, she has helped create a more inclusive and supportive community.

• Empowerment of Underserved Populations: Her advocacy has enabled individuals to assert their rights, access critical services, and participate more actively in society.

• Policy and Systemic Change: Her research and engagement have informed policy reforms, strengthening social services across Winnipeg.

Through her dedication and leadership, Gisèle Saurette-Roch has not only improved lives but has also paved the way for a more just and equitable society.