Jeanne-Mance-Viger

Djaouida Sellah

Dr. Djaouida Sellah is a physician, public servant, former Member of Parliament, and humanitarian whose life and career have been dedicated to improving the health, well-being, and quality of life of others. Combining extensive medical expertise with firsthand experience in federal politics, she has earned a reputation as a compassionate leader, a strong advocate for communities, and a passionate promoter of accessible public services. Born in Algeria, Dr. Sellah grew up in a family deeply committed to service and resilience. Her mother worked as a midwife, devoting her life to caring for mothers and children, while her father lost his life during Algeria’s War of Independence. Growing up in the aftermath of conflict profoundly shaped her understanding of sacrifice, perseverance, and the importance of supporting those facing adversity. These early experiences inspired her lifelong commitment to medicine, humanitarian action, and social justice. A Doctor of General Medicine, Dr. Sellah has accumulated more than twelve years of professional experience in hospital, industrial, and community healthcare settings. Her extensive medical background provided her with a deep understanding of the challenges faced by patients, healthcare professionals, and families in a wide variety of circumstances. She further strengthened her expertise by earning a Graduate Diploma in Insurance Medicine, gaining advanced knowledge in medical assessment, healthcare systems, and public policies related to health and insurance. Her humanitarian commitment extended far beyond traditional medical practice. During the Gulf War, Dr. Sellah served as a volunteer physician with the Red Crescent in Baghdad, providing medical care under exceptionally difficult and dangerous conditions. This experience reinforced her dedication to vulnerable populations and strengthened her belief that healthcare is both a fundamental human right and a powerful instrument of peace and dignity. Following this humanitarian mission, Dr. Sellah and her husband settled in Kuala Lumpur, where he worked as a translator. In 1998, they chose Quebec as their new home, beginning a new chapter that would eventually see Dr. Sellah become an influential voice within both the medical and political spheres of her adopted province and country. As an immigrant physician, she experienced firsthand the challenges faced by internationally trained professionals seeking recognition of their qualifications and integration into the Canadian workforce. Throughout her career, Dr. Sellah has been recognized for her exceptional listening and communication skills, deep sense of service, and strong organizational abilities. Colleagues and patients alike have appreciated her compassionate approach, attention to detail, and ability to remain calm and effective in emergency situations and under pressure. In addition to her medical practice, she also worked as a Health Technician with Exam One, continuing her dedication to healthcare services and patient care. Dr. Sellah has also been a tireless advocate for internationally trained healthcare professionals. She served as President of the Quebec Association of Physicians Trained Outside Canada and the United States, where she worked to promote the recognition of foreign medical credentials and equitable access to professional opportunities. Through this leadership role, she became a respected voice for skilled newcomers and contributed to important discussions regarding medical workforce shortages and professional integration in Quebec. Driven by a desire to serve her community beyond the field of medicine, Dr. Sellah entered federal politics and was elected Member of Parliament for Saint-Bruno–Saint-Hubert from 2011 to 2015. As part of Canada’s Official Opposition, she diligently represented her constituents while advocating for stronger healthcare services, social justice, and equal opportunity for all Canadians. During her parliamentary mandate, Dr. Sellah held several important leadership positions. She served as Deputy Health Critic for the Official Opposition, contributing to national debates on healthcare policy, access to care, and public health initiatives. She also chaired the New Democratic Party Women’s Caucus, advancing issues related to equality, representation, and opportunities for women across Canada. Committed to finding practical solutions to challenges within Canada’s healthcare system, Dr. Sellah also introduced Bill C-523, the Mandatory Disclosure of Drug Shortages Act, which called for mandatory reporting of prescription drug shortages and the creation of a federal response plan. Although the private member’s bill did not become law, its core recommendations were later adopted by federal Health Minister Rona Ambrose in 2015 through regulations requiring mandatory reporting of drug shortages. This initiative reflected Dr. Sellah’s commitment to protecting patient health and ensuring the availability of essential medications for Canadians. Her parliamentary experience also included service on the House of Commons Standing Committee on Health and the Standing Committee on the Status of Women. Through these responsibilities, she contributed to the development and review of public policies affecting healthcare, women’s rights, families, and vulnerable populations. Today, Dr. Sellah remains guided by the values that have defined both her professional career and public service: compassion, integrity, service, and respect for others. Her unique combination of medical expertise, humanitarian experience, leadership, and public advocacy provides her with a deep understanding of the challenges facing Canadians, as well as the practical solutions needed to address them. Dr. Djaouida Sellah remains committed to building stronger communities, improving access to quality healthcare, promoting equality, supporting newcomers, and ensuring that every citizen has the opportunity to succeed. Her lifelong dedication to public service reflects her belief that effective leadership begins with listening, understanding, and working tirelessly on behalf of others. From her origins in Algeria to her humanitarian work in conflict zones, her parliamentary service, and her advocacy for internationally trained physicians, Dr. Djaouida Sellah’s journey has been marked by resilience, compassion, and an unwavering commitment to the common good. Her life stands as a testament to the power of service, determination, and the belief that every individual can make a meaningful contribution to their community.