Connecting our Community Ajax Ward 1

Deciding to run for local council isn’t taken lightly—it’s a commitment born from a deep desire to make a tangible difference where it matters most: in our neighbourhoods. For me, the decision to serve as Local Councillor follows years of observing gaps in services, hearing resident concerns, and witnessing firsthand how strategic leadership can shape a community.

VISION AND LEADERSHIP

The role of Local Councillor is about accountability, accessibility, and action. It begins with listening: to seniors worried about transit access, families needing better parks, or small businesses seeking support. Effective local governance means turning those conversations into solutions through transparent decision-making, data-informed planning, and collaborative problem-solving. Ultimately, my decision to run reflects my belief that local government should be approachable, transparent, and reflective of the diverse voices within our ward. It’s about building trust through action: attending community cleanups, listening at kitchen tables, and advocating for policies that lift everyone.

COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT

As local needs evolve, so must our collective response. For residents across Ajax, the foundation of a thriving community rests on three essential pillars: sustainable growth, transparent leadership, and true inclusivity. Understanding these priorities isn’t just about policy—it’s about shaping everyday life for families, seniors, entrepreneurs, and businesses alike.

Real change doesn’t start in the council chamber—it begins in neighbourhoods, community centres, and local gatherings where people come together with shared goals. My journey in community building started as a volunteer at my kids' school, working alongside other parents to make connections in our school to strengthen our diverse school community. Those volunteer hours turned ideas into impactful initiatives.

I also served as the President of the Ajax Skating Club during a time when Skate Canada mandated changes to the core teaching methods our coaches had been using for over a decade.  This required strong leadership, adaptability, accountability, motivating people, and communication.  The Ajax Skating Club received recognition from Skate Canada for our early and successful adoption of the required changes.

I spent many years volunteering as a trainer on various hockey teams in Ajax.  That naturally evolved into volunteering on the Board of Ajax Minor Hockey as the Director of Trainers - during COVID!  The pandemic created an unprecedented need for daily communication with coaches, trainers, parents, board members, public health, Hockey Canada, and Ontario Minor Hockey Association.  This challenge was daunting.  It changed daily.  I continue to be honoured that Ajax Minor Hockey put their trust in me to guide them through those very challenging times. I am very proud that Ajax Minor Hockey was able to keep players safely on the ice and involved in the sport longer than any of our other local hockey associations.  That was a result of teamwork at it's finest.

More recently I have helped launch a new food bank in Pickering Village which is about to open its doors to our neighbours in need.  I also serve on the Ajax Homelessness Task Force.  I am passionate about making sure our neighbours are supported when they are going through a tough time.

EXPERTISE, EXPERIENCE, ENERGY

Professionally, I lead a network of breakfast and lunch programs for youth going to school hungry across Canada.  I support over 750 community groups, thousands of volunteers, and school boards throughout the country as they do their best to make sure hungry kids have food each day. I am the Executive Director of Show Kids You Care.  I've had the privilege of serving in this role and others at the organization for over 25 years.  I do this work from my home office right here in Ajax!

These hands-on experiences have equipped me with the skills to listen, mobilize support, and deliver tangible results—qualities essential for effective local representation.

As I look ahead, the path forward is clear: lasting community progress happens when residents, organizations, and local leaders align around shared goals. I look forward to meeting you at your door when I am door-knocking.  In the meantime, feel free to connect with me by phone, email, text, etc.  I want to get to know you - get to know what you'd like to see happening in Ajax - and work together to make those things happen!