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Ismail Mohamed, Liberal party candidate in Kitchener South-Hespeler, believes in people over politics.
“This riding is large and diverse. I have met with each community and everyone is unique, with its own needs. I have been greeted with empathy, vulnerability, and kindness. This place shaped me and raised me and now I’m in a position where I can help meet the needs of the community,” Mohamed said.
Having immigrated to Canada from Somalia in 1993, Mohamed is aware of the changing demographic of Waterloo Region and the need for participatory leadership.
“Coming from Somalia, I lived through war and refugee camps. I had two sisters in Ottawa. They were so worried for our family. They found us, sponsored us, and we came to Canada,” Mohamed said.
“It was such a humbling experience. Life teaches you so many lessons and I consider myself lucky.”
Mohamed attended school in Ottawa and began working as a youth worker.
“This is where I began my career and found my niche,” Mohamed said.
Today, Mohamed works for the City of Kitchener as a community services facilitator. He is involved in addressing issues around housing, education, and human services, and brings many years of experience and skills in navigating services for youth, families, and the elderly.
“This role has taught me the value of community, its needs, and ways to find solutions to help meet those needs. Right now, I see such a disconnect between politicians and the community. This is why I put my name on the ballot, so that I can run as a candidate,” Mohamed said.
For Mohamed, it is about connecting people to the resources they need to succeed and to contribute to the well-being of the community.
“My parents taught me the value of charity and and that by helping someone, this is what saves people,” Mohamed said.
“Waterloo Region is a place where I can hear stories and learn about everyone’s gifts, from individuals to cultural communities. My role has allowed me to connect with people about things that matter.”
By developing and implementing successful partnerships as a community leader, Mohamed believes in the importance of strengthening communities and valuing the needs of all socio-economic groups.
“Kitchener-South Hespeler needs a leader that can work with community members. Whenever possible, I have partnered with community members and organizations to implement sustainable solutions,” Mohamed said.
“On my journey so far, I have learned so much. People are missing an advocate. I have the tools and I want to be the voice for the unheard. This would be an honour.”
Mohamed has four children and his wife, originally from Kitchener, is a registered nurse.
“I have always been interested in running politically. It was the right time for me. I’ve had nothing but support and I have gained this support because people believe in me,” Mohamed said.
He wants to advocate for more affordable family housing, especially for seniors.
“Many do not have benefits and they are struggling. I believe that if we want to solve problems, we need to start having conversations. And I want to listen to my community,” Mohamed said.
Representation means being accessible, he added.
“I have a track record of building resilience in the community, and being in the community, I am one of them. I know how to connect the dots and I will find resources to lift everyone up. I am a fighter,” Mohamed said.
“I want to amplify all voices. Their issues are my issues.”
