Winnipeg Election 2018

Jasmine Brar - Pembina Trails - 3

Why did you decide to run in the 2018 (Winnipeg Civic Election / School Board Election)?

My decision to run as a School Trustee came from my lifelong interest in education. I have always been an advocate for innovation and excellence in our school system. As we move into a very critical phase of digital growth and international competitiveness, I strongly believe we need leadership that reflects this change. I have two children 16 and 12 who both attend Schools in Pembina Trails School Division and I can speak from experience as a parent the issues we face in our schools. Lack of schools, catchment issues, overcrowding, mental health, safety around schools and lack of open access to the elected officials are of high concern to me and many families that I have connected with. I strongly believe in transparency, proactive engagement and dialogue that results in exceptional results. With the province conducting a comprehensive review of our education system we require strong leadership that can collaboratively work with all stakeholders to ensure the best outcome for parents, teachers and children. With the growth we have seen in South Winnipeg along with significant increase in diversity that is represented, there is a strong need for fresh perspective on the board and that’s what I bring.

What experience will you bring to complement your role as (Mayor / Councillor / School Trustee)?

I have many years of experience working with Manitoba’s finest educational institutions. I spent two years working at Red River Community College as an Administrator in Student Counselling. Now for the past 7 years, I have worked as an Administrator at the University of Manitoba In the Asper School of Business for Actuarial studies and research. As an Administrator, I oversee over two million dollars of department budget, involved in the hiring process of local and international professors, instructors and students and manage department expenses with full transparency and accountability. I have 16 years of experience as a parent whose children attend schools in the public education system in the ward. I have first hand experience dealing with the day to day issues and challenges parents face. To compliment this I have been an active volunteer in children’s school’s, daycares, community centres, charitable organizations and sit on various boards.

What are some issues that you would like to stand for in your role as (Mayor / Councillor / School Trustee), and why are these issues important to you?

Lack of facilities, catchment issues, class sizes, bussing, safety, transparency and budgeting and engagement are going to be my top priorities. Having lived in Pembina Trails Schools division and raising two children, I have first hand experienced the lack of access to proper facilities and I continue to hear about these issues from all the parents that I deal with in both my professional experience and social community involvement. Although two new schools have been announced for Waverley West by the Provincial Government, I along with many parents feel that the process has been very slow. I will strongly advocate and work with government officials and other Trustees to accelerate the process of not only bringing two schools but more in the near future. There is a strong need for proactive involvement of elected officials to represent the voice of our parents and our communities. That’s what I represent and that’s what I will stand for once elected.

What is something that you appreciate about the (City of Winnipeg / the ward / the school ward or school division) you wish to represent?

Pembina Trails Ward 3 is a very unique ward with an opportunity to represent both highly matured neighbourhood and significant growing neighbourhoods such as Bridgwater, South Pointe and Prairie Pointe. I have been in love with Bridgwater  and the surrounding neighbourhoods since I moved here. It is amazing to enjoy the Forests, the Lakes, the Trails and the Prairie grasses on my morning and evening walks with my husband and children. I have appreciated the maturity, the excitement and the growth that we have seen. We have very engaged communities around us and the diversity of this area is truly inspiring.

Do you have any other comments regarding your candidacy?

I hope to earn your vote on Oct 24. My commitment to you will be that I will be fully accessible at all times, will work hard with full determination in driving the best outcome for our parents, teachers, taxpayers and most importantly our children. I will focus on continuous learning and personal growth and above all, to be your voice on the board. If you would like to learn more about my work experience, volunteer work or read my testimonials I welcome you to visit my website jasminebrar.ca