A milestone in Canadian history
On October 18, 2023, Wab Kinew was sworn in as the 25th Premier of Manitoba. His swearing-in marked a historic moment: he is the first person of First Nations descent elected as premier of a Canadian province, a powerful symbol of change and hope. While Manitoba previously had an Indigenous-heritage Premier, Métis Premier John Norquay in the late 1800s, Kinew’s achievement carries new significance in a modern Canada with deeper efforts at reconciliation.
Roots and cultural strength
Born Wabanakwut “Wab” Kinew on December 31, 1981 in Kenora, Ontario, he hails from the Ojibways of the Onigaming First Nation. Growing up partly in Winnipeg and spending summers in his ancestral community, he developed a strong connection to his Indigenous heritage, language and traditions. This foundation has shaped his worldview and informs his leadership now.
Wab Kinew as a Rapper!
Before entering politics, Kinew was a well-known hip-hop artist in Canada.
He released socially conscious music that explored Indigenous identity, reconciliation, community struggles, and his own personal growth. His work blended activism with storytelling, earning him recognition in the Indigenous arts scene.
Wab Kinew as an Author
He has written several books, including:
• The Reason You Walk (2015)
A bestselling memoir about his relationship with his father, residential school trauma, healing, forgiveness, and Indigenous identity.
It received wide acclaim for its emotional honesty and cultural insight.
• Go Show the World (2018)
A children’s book celebrating Indigenous heroes throughout history.
It echoes the style of a spoken-word rap, showing kids that “you are the reason you walk.”
• Walking in Two Worlds (2021)
A YA novel blending Indigenous themes with futuristic storytelling, exploring belonging, culture, gaming worlds, and identity.
Leadership that bridges communities
From his earlier career as a broadcaster, musician and university administrator, Kinew has consistently emphasized storytelling, community and inclusion. In politics, his rise to leader of the Manitoba NDP in 2017 made him the first elected First Nations leader of a major party in Manitoba — a step in representation and voice. With his premiership, he brings that representation into the highest provincial office.
What he’s contributing as premier
From the outset, Premier Kinew set out bold priorities anchored in Canadian values of fairness, community-care and reconciliation. For example:
In February 2024 he joined the federal government in announcing over $633 million for Manitoba’s health-care system, to hire hundreds of doctors, nurses, paramedics and home-care workers — including emphasis on Indigenous-led services and culturally safe care.
His government’s 2024 budget committed about $8.2 billion to health priorities, expanded rural and northern healthcare, improved seniors care, and launched new primary-care clinics.
He has engaged directly with Indigenous communities and federal partners to improve access to culturally respectful care, economic opportunities, clean water, language revival and Indigenous rights.
