Brenda Reynolds Receives Nelson Mandela Award

Know History would like to extend our congratulations to Brenda Reynolds, who recently received the United Nations’ prestigious Nelson Mandela Award for her outstanding work in advancing Indigenous rights, mental health, and trauma-informed care.

Brenda first supported Survivors in 1988, aiding 17 girls in Saskatchewan’s first residential school abuse case. She later advised the Truth and Reconciliation Commission and was instrumental in the IRS Settlement Agreement and creating a national, culturally grounded mental health program for Survivors and families.

Brenda has also supported the Know History team by providing trauma training to staff working on Indian Residential School projects. Her guidance has made a profound difference in our lives—helping us navigate this difficult work with greater compassion, awareness, and understanding.

We’re so grateful for her expertise, empathy, and unwavering commitment to healing.

Image: Brenda Reynolds, Canadian Medical Association, Cooper & O’Hara