Dear neighbours in Barrhaven East

I was born in Gaza and completed my primary, middle, and secondary education there. I lived through the First Intifada during my university years in Birzeit, where I graduated from Birzeit University with a degree in Sociology. I worked in community and family rehabilitation in Gaza and its surrounding areas.

I then moved into media and news reporting, attending several professional training courses in London and New York before relocating to Canada. Here, I completed my graduate studies and earned a Master’s degree in Saskatchewan. I worked in newcomer settlement services within the support unit of the Social Services Association at the provincial level, and also provided direct family support to those struggling with addiction issues. Later, I moved to Ottawa to pursue my PhD at Carleton University.

Today, I am a father and an immigrant, with children in both schools and universities. I know firsthand the hopes, fears, and daily realities that families in our community face. I understand your experiences and your concerns—because they are mine too.

That is why I pledge to serve you with honesty and dedication. I will work tirelessly to protect your standard of living, avoid overburdening you with property tax increases, and prevent unnecessary hikes in utility bills. I believe that city government should work for everyone, not just the few.

I also know that our young people struggle with a lack of good job opportunities—whether with the city, the federal government, or the private sector. I know their challenges are unique, whether related to integration, identity, or simply being heard. I am equally aware of their daily frustrations with public transit and commuting to universities—from unreliable bus schedules to scarce and expensive parking.

I promise to bring a new approach to City Hall—one that replaces old politics with genuine community engagement. I will ensure that all residents, especially those who have long been underrepresented, have a real seat at the decision-making table.

I promise to work with all of you to find practical, lasting solutions to these challenges—because Barrhaven deserves better, and together, we can build it.

I ask for your vote so that I can be your voice—a voice that will not rest until your concerns are addressed and your demands are met. We need you to vote in this election so that we can have strong, effective representation at City Hall—and beyond.