I’m a devoted mother, spouse, and advocate for children, families, and small businesses here in Fort Saskatchewan. Our city is growing fast, and we have a real chance to shape it into a place where everyone can thrive: families, business owners, seniors, young people, and newcomers alike.

People are truly at the heart of everything I do. In my work at the Alberta Human Rights Commission, I’ve stood for fairness, dignity, and inclusion which are principles that help communities and individuals thrive. My legal education at McGill and Oxford taught me to listen closely, think critically, and use my voice to advance justice. I’ve also had the opportunity to work with the World Bank as a legal intern and the International Organization for Migration as a policy consultant. In these roles, I saw how compassionate, thoughtful policy can truly impact people’s lives. Through it all, my focus has remained the same: people first. 

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Volunteering locally in Fort Saskatchewan, especially with kids, young adults and seniors, has grounded me in the real, everyday lives of Fort residents. Having lived and studied in bigger cities like Montreal and Edmonton, my husband and I instantly felt at home when we first came to Fort Saskatchewan on  a visit some years ago. He jokes it’s because you can find a grocery store, fill up your tank, and grab a good cup of coffee, all without needing GPS. And maybe there is some truth to that! But for me, it goes deeper: it’s the familiar faces at the market, the neighbourly waves, and how diversity and community spirit go hand in hand here. One of my family’s proudest achievements is having a plot at the Clover Road Community garden. Thanks to Fort’s wonderfully fertile soil, we grow veggies that don’t just survive, but thrive. It’s also where I’ve had some of my best conversations with seniors who really know the land, and with the kids who stop by and ask a million questions about worms and watering cans. Nothing beats the clarity you get from getting gardening tips from seniors who know exactly when to plant, what actually grows in this soil, and how to outsmart the neighbourhood squirrels. It’s our little happy place, and we love sharing the harvest with friends, and anyone who loves spinach. It’s through these simple, joyful moments that I have come to understand Fort on a deeper level. And it’s made me think seriously about what it takes to help a city grow well.

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Over the past three years, Fort Saskatchewan’s population has grown by more than 10%, and yet it hasn’t lost its warmth or charm. That’s what makes this place so special. I’m running because I want to help protect that small-town feel, even as we grow; and make sure that everyone, new and old, feels like they truly belong.

I’ll work to ensure Fort Saskatchewan’s growth reflects our community values — supporting local businesses, attracting opportunity, and keeping our economy working for everyone. I’ll champion smarter transit options and better walkability so people can get around more easily. I’ll work to preserve the character of our neighbourhoods and support decisions that reflect the voices of residents, not just the loudest or most connected. I believe local government should be transparent, inclusive, and easy to engage with, and I’ll bring that spirit to every decision.

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But building a strong community means more than roads and budgets.It means caring for one another in real, practical ways. I’ve heard from families concerned about access to pediatric care, and from seniors who feel increasingly isolated without local geriatric specialists. As a mother and a daughter to older parents, I understand those worries on a personal level. Access to compassionate, community-based healthcare isn’t just a service; it’s a reflection of who we are. That’s why I’ll work with provincial partners and local health stakeholders, including doctors and community organizations, to advocate for pediatric and geriatric care in Fort Saskatchewan. I’ll support efforts to bring services closer to where people live, especially for children, seniors, and those with mobility challenges. Everyone deserves care that meets them where they are.

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My passion for this community led me to volunteer on the Fort Saskatchewan’s Subdivision and Development Appeal Board, helping to ensure our city grows in a way that truly reflects the values of its people. For three years, I’ve been a part of a group that volunteers at Dr. Turner’s Lodge and Southfort Bend Gardens senior homes because those who built this community deserve to be seen, valued, and included, not just on special occasions! I lead the volunteer team for a values-based children’s program in our community, where we create a nurturing, fun, and uplifting environment that helps kids feel loved, thrive socially, and grow with confidence and purpose. As part of this work, I’ve organized camps where children explored music, art and craft, and even made their own food.

Working with youth, adults, and seniors has given me a front-row seat to what matters at every stage of life. That experience will shape every decision I make as your councillor with clarity and compassion. For me, community means looking out for each other, from toddlers learning to walk to grandparents sharing wisdom.

I have met many Fort Saskatchewan residents. But in the coming weeks and months, I’ll be knocking on your doors, visiting your businesses, and chatting with you at the parks. Don’t worry, I won’t be doing all the talking! You will be doing most of it, and I will be there to listen (and maybe take a few notes).

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Sincerely,

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Simi Akintunde