Health Transformation Working Group member spotlight: Janine Pitawanikwat

By Jesse Johnson

Janine Pitawanakwat is the Systems Administrator with Wiikwemkoong Unceded Territory and has been an active member of the Health Transformation Working Group since 2020. She values the group for providing insight into the diverse needs of the First Nations, which often differ from Wiikwemkoong’s needs.

Her vision for the Working Group is to see tangible outcomes achieved, including securing additional funding to move forward with Health Transformation initiatives and completing the goals outlined in work plans.

The Health Transformation Working Group meetings reflect the Anishinabek Nation’s commitment to health sovereignty, community-driven priorities, and collaborative leadership. With traditional knowledge and structured planning at the forefront, the Health Transformation Working Group continues to chart an actionable course toward improved health outcomes for Anishinabek Nation members.

Janine is committed to working collaboratively with all departments in her community and across the Anishinabek Nation to advance health, social services, and wellness. As a systems administrator, she is motivated to help build a positive and resilient health system that strengthens First Nations.

What does Health Transformation mean to Janine?

“For me, it means First Nations restoring control over all health services—including patient care, digital data, prevention, and community wellness.”

Over the next five to 10 years, Janine wants to see increased funding to add more capacity within communities where needs are identified; decolonization of public health systems; and better data collection for all 39 Anishinabek Nation member First Nations, with authority and control resting with First Nations rather than external bodies.

In her spare time, Janine enjoys caring for her plants and spending time with her spouse, especially since his work often takes him away from home.

For more information on the Health Transformation Working Group, visit www.health-transformation.ca.