TUNGASUVVINGAT INUIT REMEMBERS BRENDA CONBOY
It is with profound sadness that Tungasuvvingat Inuit (TI) has learned of the passing of urban Inuit advocate, Brenda Conboy. Brenda was the first ever Executive Director at Tungasuvvingat Inuit when the organization launched on March 3rd of 1987.
Brenda was part of the original Board of Directors when TI came together at 507 Bronson Avenue in Ottawa. She started as a counsellor and went on to become the organization’s first Executive Director. Born in Toronto and raised in Ottawa, Brenda attended Glebe Collegiate and graduated from Carleton University with a bachelor’s degree in journalism. She was a talented potter, an enthusiastic guitar player and could creatively and lovingly pull together a gourmet meal with whatever she had on hand.
Brenda passionately poured her heart and soul into Tungasuvvingat Inuit and truly embodied its value of being “a place where Inuit are welcome”. Brenda’s daughter Paula Conboy stated, “Our mum was a formidable woman. She had an infinite capacity for love and in return was loved by so many. She very much loved her Inuit community we will all miss her terribly”.
Executive Director of TI, Amanda Kilabuk shared, “We are very thankful for all the passion and advocacy Brenda dedicated into the beginnings of Tungasuvvingat Inuit. It is with her grassroot contributions that has led to all the programs and services we currently provide.”
Brenda Conboy was the epitome of leading by example in her work and in her life as a wife, mother, aunt, advocate, and leader in the Inuit community. Her legacy will be remembered for her many contributions to the Inuit community that are felt now and will be felt for generations to come. The TI Board of Directors, management team and entire staff at TI wish to extend our deepest condolences to Brenda’s dear family and friends.
Amanda Kilabuk
Executive Director
Tungasuvvingat Inuit
