Heidi Major

Heidi Major, a dedicated Social Program Advisor with the Regional Municipality of Wood Buffalo (RMWB), embodies a lifelong commitment to supporting her community and advocating for those in need. Born in Saskatchewan, but raised in Alberta, Heidi’s deep roots in the region have shaped her passion for community service, compassion, and social justice. At 49, she reflects on a career built on fostering meaningful connections, empowering others, and creating positive change.

For Heidi, the most rewarding part of her career lies in her ability to make a real difference in the world around her. Drawing inspiration from her grandfather’s words, “If it’s to be, it’s up to me,” she believes that personal healing, growth, and giving back are key to making the world a better place. “I love that through my work, I can collaborate with others, make real connections, and be inspired to do great things,” she says. With nearly 16 years at RMWB, Heidi has experienced many organizational changes, but her passion for improving the community remains constant.

As a Social Program Advisor, Heidi focuses on addressing important issues, including seniors and Elders’ services, housing, and homelessness. Her creative problem-solving, grassroots approach, and deep understanding of the community’s needs have earned her the trust and support of leaders in her organization. This empowering environment has allowed Heidi to implement innovative solutions and learn from both her successes and mistakes.

Beyond her professional work, Heidi is an active volunteer. She has participated in a range of initiatives, including the United Way Campaign, the Terry Fox Run, and food bank drives. Her volunteer efforts extend internationally, as she has taken clothing to homeless children in Mazatlán, Mexico, and continues to collect more for future deliveries. Through these acts of service, Heidi’s compassion and dedication to uplifting others are evident.

Heidi’s early life experiences have profoundly shaped her approach to community involvement. Growing up in low-income housing in a high-crime area, she witnessed the challenges of poverty firsthand. Despite the hardships, Heidi was fortunate to be surrounded by a loving family, supportive teachers, and mentors who believed in her. These influences helped her overcome adversity and ignited her desire to make a difference in the lives of others. “I want a world that is loving, compassionate, and safe for our young and old, for our broken, poor, and hungry,” she says. This desire drives her to concentrate her efforts on creating a more just and caring world.

When asked about her motivation for getting involved in community activities, Heidi’s answer is simple: “It’s in giving that we truly receive.” She believes in the power of human connection and that by digging deeper and truly seeing one another, we can begin to address the needs of our community. Heidi’s voice is strongest when she sees injustice, and she is not afraid to speak out and take action to create positive change.

Looking ahead, Heidi’s goals are focused on personal growth and continued service to her community. Inspired by role models like Jesus Christ, Nelson Mandela, Mahatma Gandhi, and the Dalai Lama, she aspires to embody love, forgiveness, strength, grace, humility, and happiness in her life. “I have much work to do,” she says, recognizing that personal development is a lifelong journey.

Heidi sees the challenges facing the Wood Buffalo region—such as a loss of neighbourly connections and community spirit—as opportunities for action. “We need to start simply by saying hello to each other, seeing each other, and making eye contact,” she advises. By building relationships and fostering a sense of community, Heidi believes we can begin to reclaim the close-knit bonds that make a community thrive.

Heidi Major may not make a “big splash,” but she recognizes the power of small, consistent efforts. “My efforts are more like ripples in this sea called life,” she says. Her approach—focused on connection, compassion, and service—creates lasting change, one ripple at a time.

Honoured to be selected as one of Your McMurray Magazine’s Top 50 Under 50, Heidi remains committed to her work and her community, continuing to be a compassionate advocate for those around her.

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