Chrystia Freeland, the first female Finance Minister of Canada, is not only known for her political achievements, but also for her strong family values and resilience in the face of adversity. Born in Peace River, Alberta, to a Ukrainian immigrant father and a mother of British and American descent, Freeland was raised in a close-knit family that valued education and hard work.
Despite the challenges her family faced, including her father’s battle with Parkinson’s disease, Freeland’s parents always instilled the importance of education and determination in her. This led her to attend top universities, including Harvard and Oxford, and embark on a successful career as a journalist and author, covering international politics and economics. Through it all, her family’s unwavering support and encouragement served as her guiding light.
But it wasn’t just her immediate family that shaped Freeland’s values and beliefs. Growing up in a diverse city like Peace River, she was exposed to different cultures and perspectives, which influenced her understanding of global issues and her passion for equality and justice. She also credits her Ukrainian heritage and her grandfather’s stories of survival during World War II for her strong sense of social responsibility and fighting for those who are marginalized.
As a wife and mother of three, Freeland continues to prioritize her family while balancing her demanding career