Dr. Marie Wilson: Leading with purpose for reconciliation and transformation

21st YMCA World Council, Toronto, Canada – Wednesday 22 July 2026

“When people came together to learn and to listen to each other for a common purpose, with vulnerability, humility and a good heart, they felt transformed by the experience,” said Dr. Marie Wilson today at the 21st YMCA World Council in Toronto. 

She spoke about leading with purpose through respect, listening, and honouring and acknowledging other experiences, including those of traditional knowledge keepers. “May we learn the lessons of injustice, hardship and failure, and act with determined hope for what is still possible.” 

Drawing on her experience as the Truth and Reconciliation Commissioner who led Canada’s national effort to uncover and acknowledge the legacy of forced residential schools for Indigenous children, she shared examples of how to lead for reconciliation and transformation by working together in community.