In her political role, Stefanson appreciates creating connections with people across the province.
Manitoba’s first female premier believes the true trailblazers are women who paved the path for her to tread. Heather Stefanson became Manitoba’s Progressive Conservative leader and premier in the fall of 2021. She has served 21 years as Tuxedo’s MLA, with multiple cabinet minister appointments along the way. “It is the honour of my life to serve Manitobans as their premier and that is the emotion that I feel every day,” she says. “If I can inspire more young women to get involved in politics or public service, then I will feel amazing.” Growing up, Stefanson didn’t have to look far to glean inspiration — she found it within her own home. “From an early age, I had a keen interest in public life. My mother was a citizenship judge for years and my father twice ran, albeit unsuccessfully, to represent the people of Fort Rouge in the Manitoba Legislative Assembly,” she says. MANITOBA’S FIRST FEMALE PREMIER REFLECTS ON ROLE By Jennifer McFee
“I spent many afternoons knocking on doors and watching families take the oath of citizenship — rituals that require humility and a commitment to a cause greater than yourself.” In her political role, Stefanson appreciates creating connections with people across the province. “More than anything, I enjoy listening to Manitobans and acting on their priorities. Since becoming premier, I have had the honour of meeting with Manitobans from all walks of life — including small business owners, farmers, community leaders and Indigenous elders — about their priorities for our province,” says Stefanson, who also serves as an honorary board member for Special Olympics Manitoba, a cause that is near and dear to her heart. “While I appreciate the advice of civil servants and other key advisors, I enjoy listening to Manitobans outside the legislature more than anything. I am at my happiest when I am able to hear out their concerns and then marshal the resources of government necessary to produce real results for their families and communities.” For other girls and women looking to lead, Stefanson offers some sage advice. “I hear from many young women who feel strongly that they have something to contribute but who are reluctant to make themselves vulnerable by running politically or pursuing another high-pressure career. Many young women are also worried about the toll their career aspirations may take on their personal life and their families,” she says. “What I always say to them is that everything worth doing
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