Melanie Yugo

Melanie Yugo is a multifaceted professional with a diverse background spanning art, education, policy research, and community engagement. She currently holds the position of Senior Policy Analyst in Citizenship Policy at Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada.2

Professional Background

Melanie Yugo is a Filipina-Canadian visual artist, educator, multidisciplinary programmer, and policy researcher.1 Her work focuses on the intersection of culture, community engagement, and public policy.2

Artistic Pursuits

As a visual artist, Melanie explores themes of:

• Diasporic storytelling
• Representation
• Cultural identity
• Well-being of historically marginalized communities1

She employs various mediums, including printmaking and independent art platforms, to promote inclusive knowledge and methodologies.1

Notable Achievements

• Co-founder and director of Possible Worlds, a community-driven project space, shop, and publisher1
• Recipient of multiple provincial and municipal arts grants and international residencies1
• Presented artwork and facilitated workshops at prestigious institutions such as the National Gallery of Canada and Ottawa Art Gallery1
• Co-creator of Spins & Needles, an innovative art and music engagement model that influenced programming at the National Gallery of Canada1

Policy Work

Melanie has built a significant career in social and cultural public policy spanning two decades. Her experience includes:

• Leading national and international policy initiatives at Canadian Heritage, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada, Global Affairs Canada, and the Canadian Institute for Health Information1
• Spearheading program reviews and partnerships in the federal arts and culture sector1
• Directing federal government reviews aimed at removing barriers for equity-deserving communities in various sectors, including arts, culture, heritage, and sport programs1

Education

• M.Sc. in Social and Cultural Psychology from the London School of Economics and Political Science
• B.Sc. in Psychology from McGill University
• Additional studies in printmaking and community design at the School of Visual Arts1

Melanie Yugo's unique combination of artistic practice, policy expertise, and community engagement makes her a valuable asset in her role at Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada, where she likely brings a nuanced perspective to citizenship policy development.