Our Leadership Team

Melissa Nollski · Executive Director

Melissa Nollski is the Executive Director of the Aboriginal Head Start program in Edmonton and a proud member of the Treaty 6 Michel First Nation. She holds an Early Childhood Education (ECE Level III) Diploma from Grant MacEwan University and has over 30 years of experience working with children and families across daycare, out-of-school care, and the Aboriginal Head Start program.

Throughout her career, Melissa has developed strong expertise in early childhood education, culturally grounded programming, family support, and community-based leadership. She is an active member of the Alberta Aboriginal Head Start Regional Committee and currently serves as the Chair of the National Aboriginal Head Start Association of Canada.

Melissa is a passionate advocate for Indigenous children and families. What she values most about her work with Aboriginal Head Start is the opportunity to support cultural and language revitalization while fostering strong community connections. She is especially grateful for the relationships built with colleagues, families, and community members, and for the privilege of helping to strengthen cultural identity and pride from the earliest years.

Email mnollski@amiskwaciy.ca

Tracie Anderson · Program Manager

Tracie Anderson has spent close to thirty years working in the social work field, supporting Indigenous communities in the areas of domestic violence, addictions and mental health, and homelessness. I’ve held leadership roles for over a decade and have also contributed nationally through my volunteer work with the Accreditation Council of Canada. As a proud Métis person, I founded a Métis Association and created a community hub focused on employment, education, culture, and connection. I was also the first Métis member to serve on the Seabird Island Health Council, contributing Indigenous perspectives to health governance.

In my current role as Program Manager, I focus on staff support, program quality, and culturally grounded, safe, and nurturing early learning environments. My key areas of focus include policy adherence, staff development, program quality, and dispute resolution. I strive to balance strong leadership with a supportive, relational approach rooted in trust and respect.

Personal note

What I value most in my work is the time I get to spend with the staff and children throughout our sites. These moments — sitting on the floor with little ones, sharing stories with them, or supporting educators in real time — remind me why this work matters. They reconnect me to our community, our culture, and our future, and they ground me beyond the pressures that come with management.

Email tanderson@amiskwaciy.ca

Nina Lawrence, RSW · Family Support Manager

As a Registered Social Worker with more than a decade of frontline and leadership experience, I am committed to supporting the well-being of children, families, and communities through culturally informed, strength-based practice. My professional background includes extensive in-home family support, program facilitation in early childhood development, and collaborative work with families navigating complex needs. I have also worked in mental health and addictions, as well as in women’s domestic violence shelters, further strengthening my ability to respond to diverse family dynamics with empathy, skill, and professionalism. Known for being highly resource-rich, I prioritize connecting families with meaningful supports that promote long-term wellness and stability. In my role as Family Support Manager, I lead programs that foster early development, family empowerment, and strong community relationships.

Email nlawrence@amiskwaciy.ca

Barry Bradley · Transportation Manager

Barry Bradley brings over three decades of experience in municipal government, managing large teams and complex operations. He joined Aboriginal Head Start in 2006 as a bus driver and has been a valued contract employee since 2019.

As Transportation Manager, Barry oversees a team of four drivers, ensuring all schedules, documentation, and vehicle maintenance are completed efficiently and to the highest standard. He manages five buses and two vans, coordinates regular maintenance and certifications, and participates in the procurement of new vehicles. Barry also serves as a backup driver when needed, demonstrating his hands-on approach and dedication to safety.

A highlight of Barry’s role is engaging with children during site visits, where he finds their energy and enthusiasm inspiring. He takes pride in leading a team of skilled and committed drivers who share his commitment to providing safe, reliable transportation for the community.

Email bbradley@amiskwaciy.ca