Yvonne Rumbolt Jones was born and raised in Mary’s Harbour, Labrador, where she takes great pride in her NunatuKavummiut heritage and the profound connection to the land and communities that have shaped her identity. Her Indigenous roots form the cornerstone of her dedication to advocating for recognition, respect, and rights for Indigenous peoples across Canada. Growing up in a tight-knit coastal community instilled in her the principles of hard work, resilience, and the necessity of amplifying voices that often go unheard.
Her career in public service spans over three decades, from serving as mayor of Mary’s Harbour to roles in the provincial legislature and eventually on Parliament Hill. At every level municipal, provincial, and federal she has remained steadfast in her mission to enhance the lives of Labradorians and ensure that Northern and Indigenous communities receive the attention, resources, and respect they merit. As the first woman to lead the Liberal Party in Newfoundland and Labrador, she has actively dismantled barriers and paved the way for others, especially women aspiring to leadership positions in their communities.
Life has shown her that genuine strength arises not from evading challenges, but from confronting them directly. Diagnosed with breast cancer in 2010, she approached the ordeal with the same resolve she applies to her daily work. This personal health experience has heightened her empathy for the hardships faced by many families and strengthened her advocacy for improved healthcare access, particularly in rural and remote areas. Each day, she remains thankful for the chance to serve, effect change, and celebrate the resilience of those who have stood by her throughout her journey.