Showing up for each other in Assiniboia

Assiniboia

When I look back on 2025 in Assiniboia, what stays with me most are the quiet, meaningful moments that happened in between the big events – the conversations, the laughter, and the small acts of care that define who we are as a community.

The year began with moments of reflection and connection. In January, I joined community members at the National Muslim-Indigenous Solidarity Conference, where listening, honesty, and shared stories created space for understanding and healing. I also spent time celebrating culture and community at events like Lohri Mela and the Scott Oake book launch, reminders of how storytelling and tradition bring us closer together.

Some of the most meaningful moments this year were spent with our youth and senior residents. From visiting childcare centres – sharing books, delivering oranges and candy canes, and thanking educators during early childcare educators’ appreciation week — to cheering at the Seniors Games, ice cream parties, and visits to 55-plus homes. All these visits were a reminder that community care happens at every stage of life.

Spring and early summer were filled with pride and celebration. I had the honour of attending graduations across Assiniboia and awarding scholarships to students who represent the future of our community. Community barbecues, neighbourhood canvassing, and celebrating local milestones — such as the 50th anniversary of Grant’s Old Mill — reminded me how strong our neighbourhood ties truly are.

Throughout the year, Assiniboia showed up for one another in times that called for compassion and action. I stood alongside families at the fentanyl poisoning awareness walk, organized by a local resident, to honour lives lost and to call for better support and solutions. At the Grace Hospital Foundation’s Joe Aiello Charity Bocce Ball Tournament, the community spirit was just as powerful, in a very different setting. Dozens of teams came out for a full day of friendly competition and connection, and the proceeds went directly toward funding new equipment, technology, and research programs that enhance patient care at the Grace. It’s hard not to feel proud of our community when you see neighbours giving up a summer day to help strengthen care for patients and families.

As the year came to a close, December brought warmth and light through winter concerts, the divisional candlelight concert, the Grace Hospital Tree of Life celebration, and festive gatherings such as breakfasts or dinners with Santa at community centres.

Serving this community means carrying all these moments with me. I am deeply grateful to represent Assiniboia ­– a constituency that leads with kindness, generosity, and care.

As we begin 2026, I wish you and your loved ones a year filled with joy, community and love.