Founder and Executive Director

Helen McPhaden is a founding member and the Executive Director of Stardale Women’s Group.

For decades, she has worked alongside Indigenous girls and young women, helping create spaces where they can speak openly, build confidence, develop leadership skills, and reconnect with culture and community.

What began as small gatherings of women seeking support and understanding has grown into an organization that has supported Indigenous youth for more than two decades. Throughout that growth, Helen’s leadership has helped shape the direction and values of Stardale.

Her work has been recognized through numerous honours, including the King Charles III Coronation Medal, the JLC Partnership Service Award, the Alberta Leadership Award in Prevention of Bullying for Family and Community Safety, and the ECOS Award for Sustainable Community Leadership.

Known for her quiet strength and unwavering belief in the potential of young people, Helen continues to be a steady and trusted presence within the Stardale community. She sees the strength in young women long before they see it in themselves.