Membertou Leader Named Among Atlantic Canada’s Most Powerful Women

In a significant recognition of leadership and influence, Jennifer Deleskie has been named one of the 25 most powerful women in Atlantic Canada for 2026 by Atlantic Business Magazine. As the vice-president of business development and public affairs for the Membertou First Nation corporate arm, Deleskie has played an essential role in advancing economic opportunities for her community.

Leadership and Contributions

Deleskie’s responsibilities include leading Membertou’s executive council, where she has effectively managed key initiatives aimed at wealth creation, infrastructure development, and community wellness. Her efforts have included coordinating special projects, securing grants and external funding, and facilitating real estate land development, among others.

Notably, Deleskie has been instrumental in recent major acquisitions, including NewDock at the St. John’s Dockyard and Genoa Design, as well as the landmark $1 billion deal with Clearwater Seafoods. These accomplishments reflect Membertou’s commitment to fostering “gracious abundance” within the community, enhancing its standing as a model for Indigenous success.

A Legacy of Growth

With a tenure of over 16 years at Membertou Corporate, Deleskie’s leadership coincided with a period of remarkable economic growth for the First Nation, located in Unama’ki (Cape Breton Island), approximately three kilometres from Sydney’s downtown centre. Membertou has transitioned from a historically displaced Indigenous community to a thriving urban centre, recognized for its innovative governance and strategic initiatives.

The Membertou Development Corporation, established in 1989, marked a significant milestone as the first Indigenous government globally to achieve ISO 9001 certification. Deleskie, who holds a bachelor of business administration with a focus on accounting and finance, has been recognized as a proven leader in securing funding for various projects that have grown Membertou’s business assets to approximately $112 million.

She leads the commercial real estate division, comprising 400,000 square feet of property that generates around $12 million in annual revenue. Described as a leader who balances strategic thinking with kindness, Deleskie is noted for her humility and care for her colleagues and community.

Community Engagement and Recognition

Born in Cape Breton, Deleskie is committed to giving back to her community. She serves as the incoming vice-chair for the Cape Breton Regional Hospital Foundation and has volunteered with the board of directors for the Cape Breton Partnership. Her dedication to community welfare further underscores her influence.

Alongside Deleskie, another notable figure recognized by Atlantic Business Magazine is Cheryl Copage-Gehue, a Mi’kmaw leader and Director of Indigenous Relations at Clearwater Seafoods. Copage-Gehue is actively involved in advancing Indigenous industry partnerships to promote long-term economic participation.

The annual recognition program by Atlantic Business Magazine highlights women who are changemakers in their industries and communities. In total, 249 nominations were submitted for the 2026 competition, with nominees assessed across multiple categories. The Canadian Women’s Foundation notes that while 82 percent of Canadian women aged 24 to 54 are employed, only 15 percent hold CEO positions, highlighting the importance of such recognition programs to promote female leadership.

As Deleskie and her peers continue to shape the future of their industries, their contributions serve as an inspiration for women aspiring to leadership roles across all sectors.