The 10th Women of Inspiration Award nominee has been named, and it is Angela Ross. Ross is a lifelong resident of Fort MacMurray, and she has made herself known in the male dominated world of the oilsands. After her four children were born Rodd decided it was time to transition outside of the local oilsands, and move into human services instead. Before the transition Ross had earned a journeyman millwright certificate. Ross attended Nechi Institute in St. Albert where she completed training in Indigenous Addictions Counselling, and then continued on to earn a Keyano College social work degree. Since graduating Ross has used her education and training to help others, holding workshops on a regular basis on topics that include cultural violence, elder abuse, and even residential schools.

All of the hard work and effort that Angela Ross has invested in making her community a better place has paid off with her nomination for the Women of Inspiration Award. According to a release Angela Ross “applies valuable cultural teachings and techniques specific to counselling in evaluating needs, developing treatment plans, advocating and counselling in a compassionate manner. Her focus is the indigenous people here in the Regional Municipality of Wood Buffalo. Angela believes that people have the ability to overcome adversities given proper encouragement and direction. Angela‘s experience is enhanced through her upbringing, aboriginal heritage, and raising her family in Fort McMurray. She has a life- long interest in learning and in supporting others to help them reach their personal success.” Ross is active in a number of volunteer positions and associations.