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Angie-Lee Coture Recognized with the Women Honouring Women Award

Angie-Lee Coture’s journey with the Métis Nation of Ontario (MNO) began at the grassroots level, where she has been a dedicated advocate for the Métis community, with a focus on empowering Métis women.

Her commitment was honoured last week at the 2024 MNO Women’s Council (MNOWC) Annual General Meeting, where she received the Women Honouring Women Award (WHWA).

“Through visionary leadership, strategic initiatives, and an unwavering commitment to the well-being of Métis women, Angie has set a benchmark for community-driven progress,” said June Smart, MNOWC WHWA Chair.

Angie hails from the historic Georgian Bay Métis community in MNO Region 7, where she inherited her passion for community service from her father, Peter Coture, a former President of the Great Lakes Métis Council. This legacy of service is being carried forward by her daughter, Paige Coture, who has served four years as the Youth Representative for Region 9 on the MNO Youth Council.

“I had the luxury and the pleasure of growing up my entire life knowing I was Métis and living within our culture,” Angie shared. “My father served on his community council for over twenty years, and I remain in awe of his dedication and commitment. From community harvesting events and traditional activities to our unique family customs, I proudly carry these experiences as part of my Métis identity.”

Angie is dedicated to supporting the most vulnerable members of the community, leveraging her professional skills to empower others. With over nineteen years of experience as a Medical Office Administrator and Personal Support Worker, she has also served as a liaison for financial advisors at Sunlife Financial, promoting financial literacy and reducing barriers for Métis women. Additionally, Angie is also a Registered Early Childhood Educator and a Cultural Facilitator, fostering intergenerational knowledge-sharing.

Now living in Kitchener, Angie has also served as a councillor for the MNO Grand River Métis Council. In this role, she has made significant contributions by championing key issues such as education, entrepreneurship, financial literacy, and health.

Despite her many achievements, Angie believes there is still much work to be done, particularly in uplifting community voices.

“Our women face many uncomfortable and scary challenges, and we need to empower them with the strength and courage to lead our community,” she said. “Every one of our women has a powerful voice and a story of strength and survival.”

Angie’s receipt of the Women Honouring Women Award reflects her passion and commitment. She continues to inspire and shape the future for Métis women and the broader Métis community.