Raised in the diverse mosaic of Western Canada, the traditional and sovereign lands of the Coast Salish, the Secwepemc, the Tsuut’ina and the Stoney Nakoda, my journey as a first-generation immigrant has instilled in me a sense of stewardship for the preservation and betterment of the communities that I am a part of, and that have shaped the individual I am. My commitment to poverty alleviation specifically, has solidified over years of living, working, and volunteering in marginalized communities locally and internationally.
Early in my legal career, I spent hundreds of hours advocating in the courtroom for the marginalized, the disenfranchised, and those in circumstances categorically emblematic of poverty. During economic downturns in Calgary, I witnessed how quickly and indiscriminately many members of our community can slip from affluence and relative comfort to the same grips of poverty. Regardless of socio-economic status, demographic background, or geographic location, we all face the same range of archetypal human struggles. Likewise, in an equitable and prosperous society, our individual ability to overcome these struggles with dignity should not be hindered by such factors. Calgary, as a young, dynamic city with economic abundance and an exceptional quality of life for most, has a unique opportunity to exemplify how deliberate and pragmatic planning can lead to stable prosperity for all.
I join Vibrant Communities Calgary with the whole-hearted belief that Calgary furnishes all that we need to realize a robust and vibrant community where all can thrive in the best, and worst, of times. Through the shared vision of Enough for All and the mandate of Vibrant Communities Calgary, I am proud to steward the prosperity of our community for the benefit of present generations and generations to come.