Ogichidaakwe Diane M. Kelly, B.A., LL.B
Ogimah Binehseek, pizhiw o’dodem of Ojibways of Onigaming First Nation. Diane M. Kelly, the first woman Grand Chief of Treaty #3 was also the first woman lawyer in the Treaty #3 Nation. Diane is a pipe carrier and Mite’iwin member.
Diane graduated from the Assiniboine Community College in Brandon with an award for highest academic achievement in 1988. She graduated from the University of Manitoba in 1992 with a Bachelor of Arts degree major in political science. Diane earned her law degree in 1995. Diane was admitted to the Manitoba and Ontario law societies in 1995, and 1998, respectively.
Diane has extensive experience in First Nations governance, board training, land claims research and development, treaty negotiations, education policies, and all aspects of child welfare. She has experience in criminal, family and civil litigation. Diane specializes in facilitating conflict resolution through the creative strategies and empowerment. She has taught at the University of Manitoba and Yellowquill College.
Diane’s source of inspiration are her children, Jen, Wendy, Jeff and Mike. Her father, Tobasonakwut Kinew, has been and is a motivating figure in her pursuits.
