Arielle Kayabaga

I got involved in politics from a young age out of interest in social justice and eventually started taking interest in political parties and community work. The idea of contributing to make our lives, other’s lives better, feels like a duty to me.

It is for sure a responsibility and I take it seriously but to me, this means that I’m paving the way for many more generations to come. It’s an honour and a privilege.

We need safe spaces to talk about mental health. Mental health is often tied with our livelihoods, securing good jobs, having safe and affordable housing and being able to enjoy community spaces and be safe is important. So mental health in the black community isn’t often talked about because there are layers of trauma that we’ve yet to solve.

I always stand up for myself hoping that by doing so will help others as well. I also take it as a teaching and learning opportunity for others.

The first advice I’d give would be for everyone to recognize that this is their place too and they have to claim their space to live. I’ll add that it’s important to give more room to those who encourage you to overcome barriers and to never give up.

Well we get one month of 28 days to teach and learn about many cultures and people who have greatly contributed to our economy, our evolution the life as we know it today and it’s not enough. Our history should be taught throughout the year through positive representation, historical contributions to Canada and the world and highlighting the positive to inspire future generations.

I haven’t been elected for a long time but in general I check out of emails, phone and social media once in a while to connect to my immediate space and recharge. To me that’s important.

Serve our community to the best of my ability for the next 4 years