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Press Release: Announcing “Your City, Your Voice!"
Curious about running for City Council or learning more about municipal politics? Your City, Your Voice is a free community workshop bringing together local organizations to help residents better understand the role of local government, the municipal election process, and what it takes to run for office in Greater Sudbury’s 2026 municipal election.
IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Your City, Your Voice Launches to Support Future Municipal Election Candidates in Greater Sudbury
Free community initiative aims to make local politics more accessible, approachable, and representative ahead of the 2026 municipal election
(Sudbury, ON) - As Greater Sudbury prepares for the 2026 municipal election, several local organizations are coming together to host a free workshop designed to help residents learn more about municipal politics and what it takes to run for City Council.
Your City Your Voice will take place on Thursday, June 4 from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. at the Downtown Library in Greater Sudbury. The workshop is open to anyone interested in learning more about becoming a candidate for councillor or mayor, exploring public leadership, or better understanding how municipal government works.
Participants will learn about the role of municipal council, the election process, what prospective candidates need to know before running, and how to take the first steps toward a campaign.
The workshop is open to everyone, with organizers particularly encouraging Black, Indigenous, racialized, 2SLGBTQ+, women, gender-diverse, and young community members to attend.
“Municipal government is the level of government that most directly shapes our daily lives,” says Amanda Kingsley Malo, founder of PoliticsNOW. “From roads and housing to recreation, libraries, and community spaces, the decisions made at City Hall affect all of us. If we want those decisions to truly reflect our community, the people around the council table should reflect the people who live here.”
“This workshop is about helping people see themselves in local leadership and giving them the information and support to explore what’s possible,” continues Kingsley Malo.
Nominations for the October 2026 municipal election are now open and will remain open until August 21, 2026.
Your City Your Voice is being collaboratively organized by Black Lives Matter Sudbury, Coalition for a Liveable Sudbury, Myths and Mirrors Community Arts, Fierté Sudbury Pride, and PoliticsNOW.
Event Details
Date: Thursday, June 4, 2026
Time: 5:30 PM – 7:30 PM
Location: 74 Mackenzie Street, Greater Sudbury
Cost: Free
Registration: Registration Page
ABOUT POLITICSNOW:
PoliticsNOW is a grassroots catalyst group dedicated to electing women and advancing inclusive leadership in politics, with a special focus on Northern Ontario. Since their founding in 2017, PoliticsNOW has supported more than 80 campaigns across Ontario and helped elect over 60 women to public office. Through campaign training, governance workshops, and advocacy initiatives, the organization equips women and gender-diverse leaders with the tools, networks, and confidence they need to succeed in politics.
Press Release: Announcing “Run Where You Are: Say Yes!"
As communities across Ontario prepare for the 2026 municipal elections, Run Where You Are – Say Yes is calling on women and gender-diverse people to take the next step toward public leadership. The free, non-partisan virtual event will take place on Tuesday, February 24, from 7:00 to 8:30 p.m. EST, and is open to participants across the province.
IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Run Where You Are Launches to Inspire Women and Gender-Diverse Leaders to Step Into Politics
Run Where You Are is a virtual event helping future leaders take their first step into municipal politics
(Sudbury, ON) - As communities across Ontario prepare for the 2026 municipal elections, Run Where You Are – Say Yes is calling on women and gender-diverse people to take the next step toward public leadership. The free, non-partisan virtual event will take place on Tuesday, February 24, from 7:00 to 8:30 p.m. EST, and is open to participants across the province.
Building on the momentum of the Run Where You Are initiative, Say Yes is designed for those who are curious about running for office, actively considering a campaign, or seeking clarity on what leadership could look like in their own community. The event focuses on breaking down barriers, addressing self-doubt, and offering practical insight from those who have already said “yes” to leadership.
“So many women are already leaders. They just haven’t called it that yet,” says Amanda Kingsley Malo, Founder of PoliticsNOW. “This event is about naming what’s already there, and showing women that they do not have to leap alone. There is a whole ecosystem ready to support them.”
The virtual panel will feature municipal leaders from across Ontario who will share candid reflections on their paths to public office, including lessons learned, challenges faced, and what they wish they had known before entering public office.
Confirmed panellists include:
Michelle Boileau, mayor of Timmins
Marilyn Crawford, councillor, Town of Ajax
Tammy Hwang, councillor, City of Hamilton
Joan John, councillor, Township of Southgate
Melanie Pilon, mayor of Wawa
“If you have ever thought ‘maybe me,’ that is not random,” continues Kingsley Malo. “That thought is information. Say Yes exists to help people take that whisper seriously and connect them with the training and support that makes it real.”
Despite progress in recent years, women and gender-diverse individuals continue to be underrepresented in municipal leadership across Ontario. Run Where You Are – Say YES aims to help close that gap by offering accessible, community-driven entry points into politics.
Run Where You Are is open to women and gender-diverse people across Ontario, whether they are simply curious about public leadership, preparing to launch a campaign, or looking to support others in politics. Please find the event details below,
Event Details
Date: February 24, 2026
Time: 7:00 PM EST
Location: Online via Zoom
Cost: Free (donations welcome — proceeds shared among host organizations to support women in politics)
Registration: https://run-where-you-are-say-yes.eventbrite.ca
To learn more about the coalition of women-in-politics organizations involved, please see below.
ABOUT RUN WHERE YOU ARE:
Run Where You Are is a non-partisan, virtual campaign school designed to inspire and support women and gender-diverse people across Ontario who are considering municipal office or school board positions. By providing practical guidance, mentorship, and access to regional networks, the program helps participants navigate the process of running for office with confidence. Co-hosted by a collective of organizations dedicated to advancing inclusive leadership, electHER Now, Leadership Féminin Prescott-Russell, Municipal Campaign School, PoliticsNOW, The Jean Collective, and Waterloo Region Women’s Municipal Campaign School, Run Where You Are empowers the next generation of local leaders and strengthens Ontario’s democracy.
ABOUT POLITICSNOW:
PoliticsNOW is a grassroots catalyst group dedicated to electing women and advancing inclusive leadership in politics, with a special focus on Northern Ontario. Since their founding in 2017, PoliticsNOW has supported more than 80 campaigns across Ontario and helped elect over 60 women to public office. Through campaign training, governance workshops, and advocacy initiatives, the organization equips women and gender-diverse leaders with the tools, networks, and confidence they need to succeed in politics.
Press Release: Announcing “Run Where You Are"
Run Where You Are is a free virtual event on September 23, 2025, designed to inspire and support women and gender-diverse leaders across Ontario to step into municipal politics. Featuring keynote Kathleen Wynne and a panel of local leaders, the event offers practical tools, real stories, and connections to help you prepare for the 2026 elections.
IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Run Where You Are Launches to Inspire Women and Gender-Diverse Leaders to Step Into Politics
Run Where You Are is a virtual event helping future leaders take their first step into municipal politics
(Sudbury, ON) -A coalition of women-in-politics organizations from across Ontario is coming together to launch Run Where You Are, a free, non-partisan virtual event designed to inspire and support women and gender-diverse people who are considering a run for municipal office or school board trustee positions in the October 2026 elections.
The online event will take place on Tuesday, September 23, 2025, at 7:00 PM EST and is open to participants across Ontario.
“Municipal politics is where change starts — in our neighbourhoods, our schools, and our councils,” says Amanda Kingsley Malo, Founder of PoliticsNOW. “We created Run Where You Are to show women and gender-diverse people that you don’t need to have all the answers to take your first step. You just need the right support and community behind you.”
Only 37 per cent of Ontario’s municipalities are led by women or gender-diverse individuals. Run Where You Are aims to change that by breaking down barriers, demystifying the process of running for office and connecting participants with the networks and tools they need to step into leadership.
“The strength of our democracy depends on who is at the table making decisions,” says Kathleen Wynne, Former Premier of Ontario. “We need more women and gender-diverse leaders to bring their perspectives, experiences, and voices into public life. Run Where You Are is an important step in making Ontario’s leadership reflect the people it serves.”
The one-hour virtual kick-off on September 23, 2025, at 7:00 PM EST will provide participants with a mix of practical guidance and actionable tools to explore municipal leadership. Participants will hear a keynote address by an inspiring leader who has successfully run for office and navigated the challenges of a political life. They will also gain insights from a real talk panel featuring three diverse voices in politics sharing their experiences and lessons learned. Followed by interactive breakout sessions tailored to their stage in the journey, including Curious About Running, Deciding to Run, Running Again, and Supporting a Campaign.
“Our roots are in Northern Ontario, but the need for women in leadership is everywhere,” continues Kingsley Malo. “Run Where You Are is about giving women the tools, support, and community to step into politics with confidence — no matter where they live.”
Run Where You Are is co-hosted by a collective of regional organizations committed to advancing women and gender-diverse leadership in local government, including,
Run Where You Are is open to women and gender-diverse people across Ontario, whether they are simply curious about public leadership, preparing to launch a campaign, or looking to support others in politics. Please find the event details below,
Event Details
Date: September 23, 2025
Time: 7:00 PM EST
Location: Online via Zoom
Cost: Free (donations welcome — proceeds shared among host organizations to support women in politics)
Registration: https://www.eventbrite.ca/e/run-where-you-are-tickets-1527433106539
To learn more about the coalition of women-in-politics organizations involved, please see below.
ABOUT RUN WHERE YOU ARE:
Run Where You Are is a non-partisan, virtual campaign school designed to inspire and support women and gender-diverse people across Ontario who are considering municipal office or school board positions. By providing practical guidance, mentorship, and access to regional networks, the program helps participants navigate the process of running for office with confidence. Co-hosted by a collective of organizations dedicated to advancing inclusive leadership, electHER Now, Leadership Féminin Prescott-Russell, Municipal Campaign School, PoliticsNow, The Jean Collective, and Waterloo Region Women’s Municipal Campaign School, Run Where You Are empowers the next generation of local leaders and strengthens Ontario’s democracy.
ABOUT POLITICSNOW:
PoliticsNOW is a grassroots catalyst group dedicated to electing women and advancing inclusive leadership in politics, with a special focus on Northern Ontario. Since their founding in 2017, PoliticsNOW has supported more than 80 campaigns across Ontario and helped elect over 60 women to public office. Through campaign training, governance workshops, and advocacy initiatives, the organization equips women and gender-diverse leaders with the tools, networks, and confidence they need to succeed in politics.
Natalie Labbee
Natalie Labbee is a councillor in Greater Sudbury.
In our ongoing effort to spotlight the experiences of women in municipal politics, we reached out to those elected in the 2022 municipal elections in Northern Ontario. We asked these newly elected councillors and trustees to share their insights and reflections on the transition from candidate to council. Here are their candid and firsthand accounts of the challenges, surprises, and lessons learned along the way.
Natalie Labbee is a councillor in Greater Sudbury.
What initially inspired or motivated you to run for council, and how did you envision your role before being elected?
I have been a community leader in various capacities my entire adult life. Former Mayor Jim Gordon was a strong proponent in encouraging me to run for office, but I was also fortunate to have the support of the outgoing Councillor as well; being recognized for my involvement and past experience as a municipal leader as a definite asset. I find service leadership to be very rewarding, and I am very proud to have the opportunity to represent my City in a position of influence.
I wanted to be the first woman to be elected to Ward 7 and add to the cohort as another strong voice around the table.
How did your expectations or perceptions change once you took office?
One thing that has surpassed my expectations has been the camaraderie I have with a select few on Council. They have become trusted confidantes and bring so much calm, focus, and perspective to the experience. It's invaluable, and we lean on one another in stressful times. We also celebrate small and big wins with each other because some days can be very taxing emotionally, mentally, and spiritually. It's the one aspect of the job that makes it all worth it.
There's a true realization in how much personal sacrifice goes into this job. I am always "on". Even when I'm out in the community enjoying myself, I am always being approached about some aspect of political life and decisions of Council. It's exhausting, and I'm learning how to strike a balance and put boundaries on that because it's necessary.
Were there any surprises or unexpected aspects about the role?
Although I did expect that there would be some level of online criticism, I really have to work hard at keeping a focused headspace and not let the negativity compound so it doesn't compromise my ability to keep doing a good job. Thankfully, it's just a few people, but words hurt, and it's worse when people make up stories and accusations without knowing me.
Having a good leader in our Mayor and a good group of people on Council truly helps to navigate through it. I also had a good idea of what to expect with how frustrating it is to get things done in a reasonable timeframe. I try to focus on what I do have influence over and then regroup my thoughts and focus to gather support from colleagues and staff to help realize changes that need to be made to policy or service levels that impact our communities.
What were the biggest challenges you faced when transitioning from a candidate to an elected official?
I feel that many people don't realize the role of a Councillor. We aren't the Messiah. Our job is a governance role, and we shouldn't be micromanaging at the operations level; that's the role of staff. Many people who reach out about an issue believe that we should be able to direct a staff person to drop what they are doing and go fix their issue right away, but it doesn't work like that.
As a result, some will take to social media or email and berate us, saying we aren't effective, they won't be voting for us again, and we serve no purpose (other than to raise taxes and make wrong decisions) in their opinion. Some make it personal when they haven't even made time to meet us or get to know us. It's also a challenge to know what battles to choose. If we speak up, we are criticized if our explanation doesn't line up with their opinion, and if we are silent, then we are accused of not caring.
The worst comment to have to ignore is the idea that we are making decisions to "line our pockets", suggesting extortion and bribery, which is a criminal activity. It's very hurtful and so wrong, but people can say pretty much what they want without consequences. It makes it that much harder to stay focused on the job we were elected to do, and it's not for the faint of heart, that's for sure.
What do you wish people knew about running for office, based on your own experience?
It's important to truly understand the role of a City Councillor and how service leadership will take over all aspects of your life. It's a huge sacrifice, and if you work hard, show up, commit to learning, and are prepared, the public will recognize that, and your peers on Council will respect you for it. You don't have to be the smartest person around the table, but if you are open to listening to others' perspectives, it will help you be stronger in your role, and you will become a person of influence.
As long as you are genuine, people will see that in you. If you want to win, you must put in the work and have a solid team who believes in you to help you win! You have to be brave, have the confidence to speak up, and take the time to learn about important issues. Being informed and knowledgeable will serve you well if you have to participate in a debate.
Most of all, have fun with it! When you win, your life will change, but if you surround yourself with positive energy and good people, you'll become an excellent leader and be an effective change agent! It's so rewarding!
Looking back at your first year in office, what were the most rewarding aspects of serving in your municipal role?
For me, one of the best feelings is knowing that all the hard work and time invested in a project has been worth it when it's finally realized, despite the odds! Hearing from your constituents about how appreciative they are, or having people acknowledge seeing an interview on the News or reading a quote from me from a Council meeting; commenting on my ability to speak so professionally and so respectfully, being seen as knowledgeable, that means so much to me! I strive so hard to be a true Ambassador for my City and to lead by example always.
Meeting people from all of the Wards across the City is one of the most rewarding aspects of this position, hands down. I have the distinct honor and privilege to be invited to so many community events and galas. It's fun to dress up, but it's also important to recognize the achievements and volunteers who help make our City greater! I've committed to learning and sitting on various committees. I look back and I'm so much more confident now. I know when residents come to me, I can navigate things quicker and more effectively for them.
I've made trusted and respectful relationships with Staff in all levels of the Corporation as well and that's so important. Relationship building is key because politics always has to be about the people.
What were the significant milestones or accomplishments you achieved during your tenure?
At the very first Council meeting after being elected, I realized my first successful Motion to request proper Public consultation regarding the Fire Station Asset Management plan. It was the catalyst that drove many more successful accomplishments. That process made and continues to make such an important impact in so many people's lives.
I was able to improve some sections of rural roads that had been affected by erosion in parts of my Ward, be involved with improving relationships between Volunteer Firefighters and the City, advocating hard for training opportunities for Volunteer Firefighters, getting a major repair done to the Skead Fire Station (scheduled to close permanently, it will now be reopened later this year)!
I also used my leadership and team-building skills to develop a stronger sense of team within Council by supporting and attending community events together in other Wards. It's helped to improve the overall opinion of residents who are paying attention. They see us working together instead of disagreeing, and it's a true impression of leading by example. I believe that contributes to helping people have a more positive opinion and faith in us as leaders, to make informed, difficult, and sometimes unpopular decisions to grow our City. I'm truly so very proud of that, and there's more to come!
On the flip side, what were the challenges you faced during your first year, and how did you navigate or address them?
It's very difficult to navigate the pressures of social media. People can say whatever they want with no repercussions. We won't please everyone, and it's very frustrating when I read comments that are being made by those who have only read the headlines. They haven't done the work to be informed, and they share their knee-jerk reactions to decisions being made by Council. Just because someone says it doesn't mean it's true, but many will believe comments without making sure it's true. It's almost a full-time job to mitigate social media. Sometimes we just have to choose our battles.
Another challenge is managing all the pressure that is put on us as community leaders to make the right decision. There's so much riding on the choices we make. It's an incredible responsibility to make decisions that impact the quality of life for so many people. But that's why it's important to spend the time to learn as much as we can, from all sides of an issue, to make an informed decision we can stand behind. I've been in a position where I felt I needed to vote a certain way for the sake of solidarity with my colleagues. I've learned that it takes its toll on me in a negative way, and I've resolved to not compromise my values like that anymore. I don't want to become resentful of the process or the immense pressure, so I am just going to do what's right. There's never a wrong time to do what's right.
Were there specific instances or experiences that significantly impacted your approach to governance or leadership?
I feel that it's very discouraging to not feel like I can completely trust in the process. I believe that some staff feel they only need to provide the information they want Council to have. I shouldn't have to work so hard to get answers or to feel confident I'm getting all options presented to me in order to help me with a decision.
I also struggle with the Budget process and trying to be fair about services that impact people in their everyday lives and how the Tax Levy affects those outcomes and voter apathy.
What valuable lessons have you learned or insights gained that you'd like to share with others considering a similar path in politics?
You don't have to be the smartest one around the table, but it sure helps if you put in the time to read, be prepared, and ask the right questions — nobody can teach you how to do that either; you learn over time. Most of all, you need to care and never stop caring, even when the process feels like you're David vs. Goliath. Never compromise who you are. That will serve you well and be your guidepost to succeeding in your role. Find your people and never let anyone dim your shine!
Always believe you deserve a seat at the table and don't miss an opportunity to introduce yourself to other community leaders. It's important to learn from others in similar positions. It will only make you a stronger leader.
What do you wish people knew about working as a politician, based on your experience?
I want people to understand what a hard job this is. It's important to recognize and understand the role of a Councillor; what we can and can't do. There needs to be some level of grace in that. It's a significant commitment and not without personal sacrifice. We put ourselves out there to be scrutinized unfairly, criticized, and personally attacked. I've even been "fat shamed" online by two women (with fake accounts) that I've never even met. It's beyond ridiculous but it says way more about them than it does about me.
We shouldn't ever be told that we need thicker skin or bigger shoulders if we can't take it. Nowhere in the job description does it say I have to be anyone's doormat. It's one main reason why more good people don't step up into the role. That's why it's so important to have a good support network.
Where can people find you?
These profiles are part of our ongoing series featuring women councillors and trustees elected through the ElectNOW initiative. Surveys were sent to all woman councillors and trustees who participated in the 2022 ElectNOW series. While some answers have been edited for clarity and spelling, the responses provided are the candidates' own and do not necessarily reflect the views of PoliticsNOW. If you are a woman councillor, mayor, or trustee residing in Northern Ontario and would like to be featured in this series, please fill out our survey.
Judy Kosmerly
Judy Kosmerly is a School Board Trustee in Area 3, Wards 5 & 6 for Rainbow District School Board in Greater Sudbury.
In our ongoing effort to spotlight the experiences of women in municipal politics, we reached out to those elected in the 2022 municipal elections in Northern Ontario. We asked these newly elected councillors and trustees to share their insights and reflections on the transition from candidate to council. Here are their candid and firsthand accounts of the challenges, surprises, and lessons learned along the way.
Judy Kosmerly is a School Board Trustee in Area 3, Wards 5 & 6 for Rainbow District School Board in Greater Sudbury.
What initially inspired or motivated you to run for council, and how did you envision your role before being elected?
I believed that my 34.5 years of employment with the Provincial Government had given me the knowledge and skills needed to be a school board trustee, plus I was very interested in learning more about the Education sector in general. I believed my role as a trustee would be one of governance.
How did your expectations or perceptions change once you took office?
My expectations didn't really change—a trustee's role is essentially one of governance and oversight, especially at the board table. What I didn't expect was how much I enjoyed the more social component of the trustee role—visiting schools, meeting students, attending graduation ceremonies and board-wide (and school) special events such as the Challenge Meet, science fairs, heritage fairs, pow wows, Fun Fairs, etc. This is my favourite part of the trustee's role.
What were the biggest challenges you faced when transitioning from a candidate to an elected official?
Understanding the acronyms used by the school board and others in the education sector.
What do you wish people knew about running for office, based on your own experience?
Do your research and know what the role of a trustee is before putting your name in to run as a trustee. I couldn't believe how many people I spoke to don't know what a trustee does, and how many think our role is the same as that of a city councillor or of a politician from a political party. It isn't!
Looking back at your first year in office, what were the most rewarding aspects of serving in your municipal role?
For the term that started in October 2022: being able to attend events, such as graduations and special events, in person rather than virtually.
What valuable lessons have you learned or insights gained that you'd like to share with others considering a similar path in politics?
Be a team player, be open to new ideas, and keep your focus on student success and well-being. Trustees do not have individual authority—they are expected to work together to make decisions that support [the] success and well-being [of] all students.
What do you wish people knew about working as a politician, based on your experience?
Again, understand what the role of a trustee is. The role of a trustee is a very important one— it is critical to know what your role is before you throw your hat into the ring.
Where can people find you?
These profiles are part of our ongoing series featuring women councillors and trustees elected through the ElectNOW initiative. Surveys were sent to all woman councillors and trustees who participated in the 2022 ElectNOW series. While some answers have been edited for clarity and spelling, the responses provided are the candidates' own and do not necessarily reflect the views of PoliticsNOW. If you are a woman councillor, mayor, or trustee residing in Northern Ontario and would like to be featured in this series, please fill out our survey.
Leslie Steel
Leslie (she/her) is excited to be running for City Council in Ward 9. She is a lifelong Sudburian: educated in Greater Sudbury, she also raised her family in the city and was employed in public service for over 30 years. She comes from a family of entrepreneurs who have always been immersed in business and keen to help Sudbury grow in the right direction. She is a tireless advocate working in the field of Social Services and is presently a Patient & Family Advisor at Health Sciences North and the Chair of the Northern Initiative for Social Action (a Peer Lead Organization of persons with lived experience of mental health challenges/mental illness). The Northern Initiative for Social Action is member-driven and offers meaningful and useful programs, and believes in active recovery rather than passive dependence on community services.
Leslie Marie Steel is running for Council in Ward 9 in Greater Sudbury.
Leslie (she/her) is excited to be running for City Council in Ward 9. She is a lifelong Sudburian: educated in Greater Sudbury, she also raised her family in the city and was employed in public service for over 30 years. She comes from a family of entrepreneurs who have always been immersed in business and keen to help Sudbury grow in the right direction. She is a tireless advocate, working in the field of Social Services, and is presently a Patient & Family Advisor at Health Sciences North and the Chair of the Northern Initiative for Social Action (a Peer Lead Organization of persons with lived experience of mental health challenges/mental illness). The Northern Initiative for Social Action is member-driven and offers meaningful and useful programs, and believes in active recovery rather than passive dependence on community services.
Why are you running for this position?
I am running for council because we need to change the direction and attitude of the government in this city, and I am ready to be that strong, creditable, and cooperative representation.
What innovative projects would enhance life in your municipality?
Besides the obvious better roads, sidewalks, bike paths etc., more diversity would greatly enhance Ward 9. We need to promote our beautiful city through tourism and better economic development opportunities, which will attract and include different population groups with different ideas. We need to create communities that reinforce those differences to enhance our lives.
If you received a $1 million grant to use for your municipality any way you wanted, what would you do with it?
Well, unfortunately, 1 million is not a lot in this day and age, but I might use it to attract developers to start looking for workable ideas to plan for the construction of affordable housing.
What do you think are the greatest challenges your municipality faces?
Ward 9 is extremely large geographically, and the constituents have competing ideas in many cases. Coniston has an amazing community that supports its residents with several initiatives run primarily by volunteers. I believe the South End needs to embrace "meaningful development" by being conscious of wildlife/environmental/safety responsibilities and transportation needs. Basically, like the rest of Sudbury, Ward 9 needs to identify their priorities and create workable ideas for success
Other than the official ways of communicating (minutes, municipal notes), how else will you reach out to your constituents to involve them in the decision making process?
I have knocked on hundreds of doors so far and basically people just want to be heard. They don't want you to send them minutes or notes or forward them links to other websites, they just want you to listen to them. I would hold more community meetings to engage constituents. I do have a website (www.LeslieSteel.ca) or you can follow me on Facebook at Leslie Steel 4 Ward 9.
What is your favourite thing to do in your municipality?
Swim in the lakes, eat at our amazing restaurants and work in my garden.
Why do you think it’s important for women to be represented in civic leadership, including on committees, boards and municipal councils?
My parents instilled in me the confidence to know that my opinions were to be valued. That is the message that I want to give other women to encourage them to pursue leadership roles because we belong at the table making decisions. Women have different ideas and different ways of handling situations. After all, it takes some amazing skills to take care of your home, raise your children, be there for your aging parents, babysit your grandchildren, walk a dog and be engaged at your full-time job. Let's hope in a few years, we will be having a different conversation about women in the workplace. So again, it comes down to diversity which has been absent at the Municipal level
Please identify the most critical policy, project, or initiative in your platform that addresses systemic barriers faced by women in your municipality, and describe why:
My first priority: Social Inclusion. That says it all!