Melanie Mark

Melanie Mark

Melanie Mark (born 1975) is a Canadian politician who has served as a Member of the Legislative Assembly of British Columbia (MLA) since 2016. She represents the electoral district of Vancouver-Mount Pleasant as a member of the British Columbia New Democratic Party (BC NDP). Mark is the first First Nations woman elected to the Legislative Assembly of British Columbia and the first to serve in the provincial cabinet.

Early Life and Education

Mark was born in Vancouver, British Columbia. She is of Nisga'a, Gitxsan, Cree, and Ojibway heritage. She grew up in the Downtown Eastside of Vancouver, an area known for its socio-economic challenges. Mark attended the University of Victoria, where she earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Political Science. She later completed a Master of Arts in Public Administration from Simon Fraser University.

Career

Before entering politics, Mark worked in various roles advocating for Indigenous rights and social justice. She served as the Associate Deputy Representative for Children and Youth in British Columbia, where she focused on improving the lives of Indigenous children and families.

Political Career

Mark was elected to the Legislative Assembly of British Columbia in a by-election on February 2, 2016, succeeding Jenny Kwan. She was re-elected in the 2017 and 2020 provincial elections.

In July 2017, Mark was appointed as the Minister of Advanced Education, Skills and Training in the cabinet of Premier John Horgan. In this role, she worked on initiatives to make post-secondary education more accessible and affordable for British Columbians.

Personal Life

Mark is a mother of two and is known for her advocacy on issues such as education, child welfare, and Indigenous rights. She has been recognized for her contributions to public service and her efforts to improve the lives of marginalized communities.

See Also

• British Columbia New Democratic Party
• Legislative Assembly of British Columbia
• Vancouver-Mount Pleasant
• John Horgan