Kelly Gillis, an Ambassador for SDG 11, Canada

The Icons of Change Global Secretariat proudly announces the appointment of Kelly Gillis, CPA, ICD·D as Ambassador for Sustainable Development Goal 11 – Sustainable Cities and Communities (Canada), under the Icons of Change Leadership, Sustainable Infrastructure & Inclusive Public Policy Fellowship.

A distinguished public sector executive and visionary leader with over 25 years of senior leadership experience, Kelly Gillis, CPA, ICD·D has shaped some of Canada’s most critical national priorities in housing, infrastructure, innovation, and economic development. Her career reflects a deep commitment to creating systems that deliver dignity, opportunity, and long-term prosperity — recognizing that infrastructure is not merely physical but foundational to equitable, resilient, and sustainable communities.

As Deputy Minister of Housing, Infrastructure and Communities Canada (2017–2024), Kelly led transformative investments in public transit, climate-resilient infrastructure, affordable housing, and community development. She played a pivotal role in advancing housing affordability, addressing homelessness, and expanding broadband access to connect rural, remote, and Indigenous communities through programs such as Connect to Innovate. Previously, as Associate Deputy Minister at Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada (ISED), she championed Canada’s Inclusive Innovation Agenda, clean growth, digital economy strategies, and telecommunications policies that foster competitive and inclusive economic development.

A Chartered Professional Accountant (CPA, CA) with a Bachelor of Commerce and Graduate Diploma in Public Accounting from McGill University, and an Institute of Corporate Directors designation (ICD·D), Kelly brings rigorous financial acumen, strategic insight, and ethical governance to every role. She has served as ex-officio Director of the Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (2021–2024), Past President of the Institute of Public Administration of Canada, and currently serves on the boards of the Canadian Mental Health Association, Canadian Urban Institute, and HealthPartners.

Kelly’s leadership style — collaborative, inclusive, mentorship-driven, and results-oriented — has strengthened cross-sector partnerships across governments, Indigenous communities, municipalities, and the private sector. Her work integrates environmental sustainability, social inclusion, and economic opportunity, directly advancing SDG 11 by building resilient cities and communities that leave no one behind.

For her outstanding, sustained leadership in advancing Sustainable Development Goal 11 through strategic infrastructure development, innovative housing solutions, inclusive economic growth, ethical governance, and the creation of sustainable, resilient communities across Canada, Kelly Gillis, CPA, ICD·D is proudly recognised as a 2026 Icon of Change.

As Ambassador for SDG 11 (Canada) under the Leadership, Sustainable Infrastructure & Inclusive Public Policy Fellowship, Kelly will support the Icons of Change platform by fostering collaboration on sustainable housing, resilient infrastructure, inclusive innovation, and evidence-based public policy. Her mandate includes engaging policymakers, public sector leaders, and cross-sector partners; contributing to global SDG-aligned forums; promoting ethical governance; and mentoring the next generation of leaders committed to building equitable and thriving communities.

Her appointment reflects a shared commitment to creating a better future — where thoughtful, ethical public leadership translates into tangible improvements in people’s lives and shapes sustainable, inclusive cities and communities for generations to come.