Ya’ara Saks brings a fresh national and global perspective and a wealth of experience with a focus on health, mental health, energy, mining and natural resources.

As the former Minister of Mental Health and Addictions and Associate Health her work has been shaping legacy policy in changing the landscape of mental health access through the  9-8-8 and the Youth Mental Health Fund, and a strong advocate in shaping health policy for the future by investing in data, digitalization, infrastructure, research and women’s health.

As a member of Cabinet sitting on Reconciliation and the Global Affairs and Public Safety tables, she helped navigate some of the most challenging environments for decision makers while seizing opportunities for collaboration, innovation and growth nationally and in the global arena.

A seasoned public affairs executive by training with a focus on international affairs and diplomacy, she has led teams for over 20 years with her work defined as building bridges across sectors, communities, and perspectives to deliver impact in complex socio-political and geo-political environments. From national health and social policy to strategic communications to international relations with a focus on the Middle East and the Gulf, she knows firsthand the power of collaboration grounded in trust and lived experience.

At Sussex, Ya’ara leverages her experience and relationships to help organizations and industries achieve their growth, service delivery and economic objectives in domestic and international environments.

When she is not working on her next project, Ya’ara is the proud mother of two daughters. An avid hiker, skier and yogi, she balances time between her next favourite book and her love of cooking and nourishing those around her.