Municipal Trailblazers

Bio: Kemi Akapo (she/her) is a Nigerian born, queer, Yoruba woman who moved to Nogojiwanong/Peterborough in 2005 as an international student. After completing her degree at Trent University, Kemi decided to make Peterborough home. She worked at Trent University for several years while volunteering at the YWCA Peterborough Haliburton, Kawartha World Issues Centre, and the Peterborough Independent Podcasters. Kemi represented Peterborough at the United Nations for the Commission on the++ Status of Women in 2015. In 2018, she was elected as the first Black female Councillor in the City's history.  During her tenure, she's held the Transportation and Youth portfolios. Kemi also works as the Case Management Coordinator at the New Canadians Centre.

Why municipal government?

“Before the 2018 election, I asked people I thought would be good candidates to run for a newly vacant Council seat. Everyone declined and then one day, somebody flipped the question and asked me to run.”

“I like to work at the grassroots level with a focus on my immediate surroundings. Municipal government is closest to our everyday life, even though it often gets the least attention. I also liked the independence from any political party.”

Highlights and challenges

“I am most proud of a pilot project where kids under 12 can ride transit for free. I think it has the potential to make pivotal change. We know that the younger people are when the start taking transit, the more likely they are to use it in the future. This is an important step towards addressing climate change and reducing emissions”

“It is really rewarding to have young people come up to me and tell me how much they appreciate having my voice on Council. I am proud to be a positive example for youth of what they can achieve.”

“I’ve had my share of social media vitriol, particularly at the height of the pandemic and amidst lockdowns. I have pared down my use on some platforms. I also think it’s important to bring it out into the open. It is important to talk to colleagues, friends and family to help cope with the aggression.”

Tips and advice

“Get to know your community. Not just leaders, but get to know the perspectives of everyday people, like shop owners, students and families. That is how you’ll know where people want their community to go.”

“Keep your goals realistic. Local government takes time and patience. Prioritize the changes you want to make.”

“Remember that no matter who you are, particularly if you are from a group whose voices have been marginalized, you belong there. You deserve to be there. And your voice is needed at the table.”

Steve Anderson is Deputy Mayor for the Town of Shelburne and a Regional Councillor for the County of Dufferin. He is also a senior practicing litigation lawyer with more than 16 years of experience with the Toronto Transit Commission (TTC). Deputy Mayor Anderson has served on numerous Boards and committees. He currently serves on the County of Dufferin and the Town of Shelburne’s Diversity and Inclusion Committee and is also a Director for Defence Construction Canada, a Crown corporation. He was named one of the Top 50 Jamaicans in the GTA by the Toronto Star in 2013, and his community service was honoured by the House of Commons. He recently authored his first book Driven to Succeed. He is a dedicated father to two children, Asia and Devante.

Why municipal government?

“I felt that I could have more impact in municipal government than at other levels. With municipal government you really are boots on the ground, connected to and serving your community.”
“At the municipal level, you run on your name and not that of a political party. It’s about what you bring to the table. You have the freedom to act according to your own values and what you feel is best for the community.”

Highlights and challenges

“It is important that we have different perspectives and values at the decision-making table. When I reflect on the many who made tremendous sacrifices for myself and others to have opportunities in this country, I feel I have a duty and responsibility to ensure their sacrifices were not made in vain.  In other words, I want to ensure that positive progress continues.  A highlight of serving on Council is being able to use my platform to inspire a younger generation that a future in politics is possible. When we see diversity in society's main institutions, it is then we can expect to see meaningful and lasting change.”

“When you are in the public eye, you will always encounter people who will strongly disagree with you and at times it can have racial undertones. Thankfully in the Town of Shelburne and the County of Dufferin, the majority of people will judge you by your content and character and not superficial factors like the colour of your skin, the religion you practice or your sexual orientation. Over the years, I been fortunate to have met many people who share my mantra that we are Stronger to Together. While helping to lower taxes, fixing our roads and sewers are important, as a leader the ability to shape a community where we value, respect and support each other is a great reward of the job.”

Tips and advice

“If you are thinking about running – be bold, courageous and take every opportunity to find mentors who will guide you on how municipal government works. Don't wait on others to make the changes you desire to see. You have to step up and be the change you want to see.”

“Once you are elected to Council, have fun and enjoy what you have accomplished. Remember to be patient as Rome was not built in a day.  Grasp the importance of collaboration because this is the key to getting things done. Lastly, never lose your authentic self along the way.”

Bio: Bernadette Clement was appointed to the Senate in 2021. She was elected Mayor of Cornwall in 2018, becoming the City’s first female Mayor and the first Black woman to serve as a mayor in Ontario. Prior to this, she served three terms as city councillor. She is very proud of her Francophone and Trinidadian heritage, reflecting both Canada’s diversity as well as its linguistic duality. Professionally she is a Legal Aid lawyer focused on representing injured workers. She has volunteered extensively in her community, advocating on racial equity and working to support newcomers, people with disabilities and the homeless. She continues to mentor aspiring community leaders.

Why municipal government?

“As a Legal Aid lawyer, I could help people individually. I saw municipal government as way to make more systemic change, to have a bigger impact on people’s lives.”

“Municipal councils fix things at the community level – the work is so tangible and real in making a difference in your community. Not just roads and sidewalks but access to services for all members of the community. ... Municipal service is about love - loving where you live and the people in your community and working to make it better for everyone.”

Highlights and challenges

“I loved my colleagues and enjoyed working with people with different viewpoints and political stripes. I liked working with people to build things for our community. We built an arena and a new wastewater treatment plant. These were big projects that have improved quality of life in Cornwall and I’m very proud of these accomplishments.”

“As a woman, it can sometimes be hard to have your voice heard. The reality was that sometimes people didn’t acknowledge an idea or statement until a man said it. I found my voice by doing a lot of consulting with stakeholders. So that when I spoke, it came through that I was speaking for many.”

“There has been social media hate, especially once the pandemic hit. As Mayor, I used my own funds to hire a communications and social media manager. That person became a good buffer, so that we could still use social media effectively. I also know this was a privilege that not everyone can afford.”

Tips and advice

“You need a diversity of allies from different sectors. You need people on your campaign who can bring in their own networks and broaden your reach.”
“I have learned that people want competent women to run. We are electable. I had to be asked, more than once, before I finally decided to run. If you have the drive and experience to help shape your community, don’t wait to be asked.”

Bio: Lynn Dollin was first elected to Innisfil Council in 1994 and served a term as Deputy Mayor before being elected Mayor in 2018. Mayor Dollin served as president of the Association of Municipalities of Ontario from 2016 to 2018 and is a Past Chair of the Ontario Small Urban Municipal Association. In 2020, she was honoured with the Women of Influence in Local Government Award for her contributions to municipal government by Municipal World magazine.

Mayor Dollin has served on numerous local boards, including the Royal Victoria Regional Health Centre, the library, Nottawasaga & Lake Simcoe Conservation Authorities, South Simcoe Economic Alliance, Physician Recruitment and Economic Development. Prior to elected office, she ran her own small business.  She is the mother of two grown children.

Why municipal government?

“My father was the first to encourage me to run, while I was pregnant with my second child. I decided to go for it a few years later. It wasn’t easy. There were people who would ask me why I wasn’t home with my family. But that has changed for the better over time.”

“I believe in local government because it provides the services you count on every day. In municipal government, you can work as a team to effect real change and make a direct impact on the community and people’s lives. That is so satisfying, even when it takes time.”

Highlights and challenges

“The best part of the job is the constant learning and connecting with great people, whether in the community or the municipal sector. Every day is different and through it all, you meet some amazing people.”

“Angry online comments can be tough and I don’t get drawn in. I’ll step away from insults. But I do find that while people may be mean, an individual person is usually kind. If you can have a one-on-one conversation about a specific matter, you may not persuade them, but they will understand and accept the decision.”

Tips and advice:

“The most important thing for candidates is to understand the job. Many people get drawn into local politics over a single issue. The role is bigger than that. It is really about what you want growth to look like and thinking strategically about the future, not about micromanaging services.”

“The best way to succeed in municipal government is to work with others. Take advice, ask questions and get a lot of input. Women often are better listeners and that can go a lot further than someone who thinks they have all the answers.”

Bio: Born in Guyana, Warden Hicks emigrated to Toronto, Canada as a child. He was a social worker for 13 years before earning his law degree as well as a Master of Business Administration. He settled in the Town of Hanover with his wife, Barbara who is from the Town. The couple practices law together and are raising their four children in the community. First elected to Town Council ins 2006, Warden Hicks is now Deputy Mayor. He was selected to serve as County Warden for 2019, 2021, and 2022. He serves on numerous community organization boards and committees.

Why municipal?
“I used to work in social services and I was so frustrated that we were putting band-aids on gaping wounds. I started looking at how I could make meaningful change at a policy level. That’s when I pursued a career in law and in politics. I chose municipal government because it is closest to the people. It is rewarding to see ideas go from concept to reality. You can see your town get better.”

Challenges and highlights
“A recent highlight has been the bold work we’ve done at the County on affordable housing. Starting in 2021, our Council voted to dedicate 1% of the tax levy annually to affordable housing.  Additionally, we created a affordable housing fund which raised $1.1 million in its first year alone to support affordable housing projects. This will be a legacy in our community, and it is very exciting.”

“There are sacrifices to be made. As a lawyer, serving in municipal office has meant giving up billable hours. There can also be a loss of privacy when you serve, especially in a small town. But it is also so rewarding to make a positive impact on your community.

Advice
“Get involved with your community. Start by serving on committees and commissions so you can learn about what is needed and then you can decide if you can make a difference in some way.”

“The key to success is building relationships. Lone wolves don’t get anything done.”

“Don’t assume that you won’t fit in or that people won’t vote for you if you look different than the community. If your message resonates, people will vote for you.”

Bio: Member of Parliament Arielle Kayabaga came to Canada with her family as it fled civil war in Burundi in search of a more a stable and promising environment. After completing her Bachelor of Arts in Political Science at Carleton University, MP Kayabaga gained initial experience in government supporting Members of Parliament through her work in caucus services on Parliament Hill. She was one of 29 young Canadians selected to represent the nation’s youth at the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (COP 16). She entered local government as part of the mentorship program at London’s City Hall and then ran a successful campaign to become a councillor. She elected to represent London West in 2021.

Why she ran for municipal government?
“Municipal governments impact people directly in their day-to-day life. I had a eureka moment listening to Council discussions about services that mattered to me as a single mom, like transit. I realized our voices are needed in the room, if we want to make our community livable for people from all walks of life.”

Highlights and challenges
“One of the highlights of serving on municipal council was working with my colleagues on a successful motion to include an equity and anti-racism lens to our budgeting process. When we use this lens, we can shape our services to meet everyone’s needs.”

“You have to work with your council colleagues and not everything will go your way, or things you worked for may get over turned. It can be hard but it is all part of the democratic process. The important thing is that it’s an open and respectful debate.”
“You have to protect yourself from the more toxic online activity. It can help to have a strong and trusted friend or family member be a buffer to review some of the comments and content so that you are not dealing with it directly every day.”

Tips and advice
“Don’t wait to be asked or invited. Don’t question if you deserve to be there. If you feel there is a need in your community where you can contribute or make a difference, run for office or support a local candidate you believe in.”

“If you decide to run, remember who you are as a person, and that you are only one person. People will have unrealistic expectations, or they will make assumptions about you. Stay true to yourself.”

Bio: Rawlson King was elected Ottawa's first-ever black city councillor in a historic by-election held April 2019 in Ward 13, Rideau-Rockcliffe. An active volunteer, Councillor King served on numerous boards and councils before his election. His focus has been on improving relationships with police, promoting social inclusion, supporting youth services and other social supports. Recognized for his volunteer work, he won a 2018 United Way Ottawa Community Builder of the Year Award, conferred during National Volunteer Week. He is also a seasoned communication professional with over 20 years private sector experience in marketing, strategic communication and high-technology market research. He has lived with his wife, Linda Grussani, a nationally renowned Indigenous arts curator in Overbrook since 2004.

Why municipal government?

“Municipal government is where the rubber hits the road. The majority of services that people use every day are municipal. You can make an impact on people’s lives in a direct way.”

“Because municipal governments are non-partisan, you have true control over your vote and have autonomy over the policies you stand behind.”

Challenges and highlights

“My view is that technology allows for a lot of anger and polarizes people. Its detrimental. As a Black man, I am used to racism both online and in daily life. You have to have a thick skin. I use social media on a limited basis, to share local information, not to get into toxic debates. We should be trying to unite people and find common ground.”

“Representation matters. By reaching out to the community and working with Council to build consensus, we’ve established an anti-racism secretariat, and created strategies around poverty reduction, food security and housing. We’re also directing more policing funds to mental health crisis response and programs for racialized and Indigenous members of our community. I am really excited about these accomplishments.”

Advice

“It’s important not to be a single-issue candidate. If you are looking to run for office, you have to reach out and take time to build linkages within the community, not just people from your own demographic. You have to take time to get involved. Good policy comes from an in-depth understanding of your whole community.”

“To serve your constituents, you have to be pragmatic and willing to listen and collaborate with people to seek consensus on policy, versus being ideological.”

“Persevere.You might not win the first time out. But keep working, volunteering in your community and try again.”

Bio: Bridging the worlds between First Nations and non-Indigenous communities has been central to Municipality of Shuniah Mayor Wendy Landry’s personal and professional life. A member of the Red Rock Indian Band, she is the first First Nations woman to serve as Mayor in Ontario. She is also the President of the Northwestern Ontario Municipal Association, which represents 37 northern municipalities. She serves on the Board executive for the Association of Municipalities of Ontario and is Chair of AMO’s Indigenous Task Force. She also serves on the Board of the Municipal Property Assessment Corporation and as Board Vice President of Ontario First Nations Technical Services Corp. Professionally, she has had a long career in corrections and education and is currently the Senior Advisor for Indigenous Initiatives and Community Engagement for Enbridge. She’s been married for 33 years and has six children, including three that come to her family through the child welfare system.

Why run for municipal council?
“Basically, to affect change and to be part of the decision-making process. I started out serving on a local police services committee. When I approached Council about a youth recreation program, I got a lot of push back. People had an old-fashioned mindset. While we were eventually successful, it inspired me to run. It was a leap of faith that people wanted something new.”

Highlights and challenges
“I have received so much support and pride from my First Nations community. I think it is so important that we are at the table, so that we can have a voice in decisions that impact us. I take the responsibility of being a bridge between Indigenous and non-Indigenous communities very seriously.”

“I have a great sense of pride and accomplishment when I see where we have come since 2007, when a few moms came together to start a youth program. We hired a part time coordinator and now this year, we’re looking at hiring a full-time recreation coordinator. Change takes time and this role requires patience, but the payoff is great.”

“Some people were concerned about my Indigenous background, so I addressed it head on by asking them what they were worried about. This was an opportunity to educate people about Indigenous history and help build an understanding of what First Nations are asserting for and that they are not coming to take back the land.”

Tips and advice
“When I first ran for Council, I knocked on about 1,400 doors. That’s what won the election. It’s the only way people will get to know you. Visit every house, even if they have signs for the opposition. You can have great, respectful conversations and sometimes win over people. It’s a lot of work and commitment, but effective.”

“Building trust is everything. You do that by being upfront and honest about who you are. Don’t try to be something you’re not. Give people the chance to know you and people will learn they can trust you.”

“Know your audience. You’ll meet people from all walks of life. Take time to learn a little bit about them, so you can connect with them from where they are coming from, speak to what they care about honestly and don’t be afraid of the difficult conversations, always speak your truth from the heart, and you will gain respect.”  

“Keep your feet on the ground and remember where you came from.”

Bio: Councillor Kristin Murray was elected in 2018, the first person of colour elected to Timmins City Council. She is a mixed-race woman of Cree and Jamaican ancestry. She also has the distinction of receiving the most votes for a single Councillor in Timmins’ electoral history. A social worker and counsellor, Murray is the Equity and Diversity Lead Program Supervisor for North Eastern Ontario Family and Child Services. She is working towards a B.A. degree from Laurentian University in Equity, Diversity and Human Rights. Some of her priorities include Indigenous health, supporting Indigenous practices and teachings, and climate change. She has two daughters.

Why she ran:

“After being encouraged to run, I finally took the leap in 2018. I had lived in Timmins for 20 years, but as an Indigenous and Black women, had never seen anyone who looked like me on Council. I knew beyond my professional skills and experience that I could also help advance conversations about diversity and equity in our community.”

Highlights and challenges:

“The highlight of working in municipal government is the public interaction and meeting so many people throughout the city. I continue to learn and grow because of it.”

“A key challenge is that sometime people think I can speak for the entire Indigenous or Black community. I am a strong advocate, but I do not and cannot speak for every Indigenous or Black person in Timmins. Diversity is about bringing different voices and perspectives to the table, but it does not mean that one person represents every member of a group.” 

“One challenge that affects many Black women in leadership is the stereotype of the ‘angry Black woman.’ The reality is that I have to be careful with my words so I am not cast with this label, even though someone else might say the same thing without being labeled as angry.”

Advice:

“Start preparing early. Seek out Councillors, Mayors or others to learn as much as you can. Seek out mentors. “

“Be prepared for close-minded comments and don’t feel you need to engage in every one, or else you will burn out. ”

Councillor Jasvinder Sandhu was elected Town Councillor for the newly created Ward 7 in October 2018. She is a seasoned lawyer with extensive knowledge in employment law, policy creation and advisement, compliance, ethics and risk management and government regulatory changes. Formerly with TD Bank and now leading her own practice in Oakville, she brings her legal experience with a business lens to Council.

Councillor Sandhu’s family has deep Oakville roots and over the last decade she has been active in the community assisting with youth mentorship, professional development and engagement. She lives in Oakville with her husband and three young children.

Why municipal government?

“Initially, I ran for municipal office because I wanted to make sure my young family and neighbourhood had the services we needed. It quickly became much bigger than that. In municipal government, you can shape where you live. As a younger person, I’m excited to help build a community where I want to live not just today, but 20 or 30 years from now.”

Highlights and challenges

“The best part of serving on Council is that you get to know people from across your community. Even when you are campaigning and going door-to-door, you get to know so much about who you serve."

“When I was campaigning, there were people who questioned how I would have time to manage my law practice, family and Council duties. I don’t think those same questions are asked of male candidates.”

“The biggest challenge is dealing with toxic comments on social media. You have to ignore it, but it is definitely not easy to do.”

Advice

“Campaigning successfully is hard work. You have to put yourself out there and just outwork everyone else. You have to start early and just keep knocking on doors so people get to know you.”

Councillor Lisa Vezeau Allen has more than 25 years of experience in the non-profit sector, leading or supporting a variety of community organizations related to youth, arts, and culture. In addition to serving as city councillor, she is the volunteer executive director of Grocer 4 Good Ability Development program, a social enterprise committee to programming and paid employment for people with an autism spectrum disorder or facing other employment barriers. She is the mother of three sons.

Why municipal government?

“I knew it was important to have more women represented in government. As a mother of a son on the autism spectrum, it was important to have that lived experience reflect my work on Council. I also wanted to be an example to others who are parenting a special needs child that you can do both.”

Challenges and highlights

“I am so proud and pleased that my sons are watching their mother contribute and help shape our community.  On Council, the formation of a Municipal Autism Strategy was rewarding. It brought together a range of people to work together on a common goal.”

Advice

“Running an election is a big undertaking and it helps to have a team of volunteers, to help with all the leg work. Donors are also important to success, so seek support from others.”

“If you have a family, rather than sacrificing time spent with them, it’s great to get them involved in the campaign. Ours was a family effort and I could not have been successful without the love and support of my children.”