Every Canadian deserves a safe and affordable place to call home. The Government of Canada is committed to working with partners and experts across the country to help address Canada's housing challenges and ensure that a diversity of perspectives informs federal housing policy.
Today, the Honourable Gregor Robertson, Minister of Housing and Infrastructure and Minister responsible for Pacific Economic Development Canada, announced the appointment of Jennifer Keesmaat as new co-chair of the National Housing Council, along with five new members: Adam Spence, Kelly Lin, Kymberly Franklin, Margaret Pfoh and Rory Richards.
The new members bring experience and expertise from a range of fields, including affordable and Indigenous housing, community development, human rights, real estate, finance and investment:
- Jennifer Keesmaat is a recognized leader in urban planning, housing, and the development of complete communities. She has worked with cities around the world to promote sustainable and inclusive community planning, and has provided expert guidance to national governments globally.
- Adam Spence is Chief Executive Officer and Co-founder of SVX, an impact investing firm operating in Canada, the United States, Mexico and Colombia, and has advised organizations across the Americas as a civic finance leader and entrepreneur.
- Kelly Lin is a multidisciplinary leader in affordable and social housing, community development, real estate finance and governance, with experience working on seniors' housing, Indigenous housing, women's shelters and housing for people experiencing vulnerability.
- Kymberly Franklin is senior legal counsel with the Nova Scotia Human Rights Commission and has practised human rights law for more than 20 years.
- Margaret Pfoh is Chief Executive Officer of the Aboriginal Housing Management Association and has dedicated more than 30 years to advocating for Indigenous rights and advancing housing solutions for Indigenous Peoples across Canada.
- Rory Richards is an entrepreneur of Shíshálh (Sechelt) descent and founder of NUQO Modular, an Indigenous-led and female-led general contractor focused on affordable and Indigenous housing.
The Government of Canada extends its sincere gratitude to the outgoing members concluding their terms, including co-chair, Tim Richter, Sylvia Maracle and Pamela Glode Desrochers of the National Housing Council for their dedication, expertise and service. We thank them for their commitment and the lasting impact of their work to better housing outcomes across the country.
