Arielle Kayabaga, MP 

London West

Arielle Kayabaga, the first Black woman to be elected as Member of Parliament in London and to London City Council, is regarded as a committed leader and champion for her community. Honoured with both the Municipal World Award and the Pillar Community Leadership Award, she continues to play an active role in advancing equity within London. Notable among her accomplishments is her selection as a 2023 Young Global Leader by the World Economic Forum, along with receiving the highly regarded Politician of the Year award by One Young World.

Arielle earned her Bachelor of Arts in Political Science from Carleton University. After completing her degree, she gained experience in government while working for the Liberal Research Bureau on Parliament Hill. During her tenure in Ottawa, Arielle successfully passed a Private Members’ Motion that introduced amendments to the federal housing framework, enhancing access to affordable housing for individuals with non-visible disabilities. Arielle presently serves as the Co-Chair of the Global Cooperation Caucus as well as the Chair of the Liberal Black Caucus.

Arielle and her family left Burundi amid civil war, and she experienced first-hand the challenges newcomers face in dealing with insecure housing and precarious employment in an unfamiliar place. Drawing from her personal experiences, Arielle remains passionate about helping new Canadians get settled in this country and gain access to the necessary resources to ease the transition. Arielle also maintains a strong commitment to representing her constituents in London West with a focus on addressing issues such as homelessness prevention and fostering civic engagement. She has engaged in bilateral meetings with various countries, ensuring that Canada continues to have strong relationships with key allies.

As a single mother, Member of Parliament, and champion in her community, Arielle embodies the qualities of a new type of political leader: progressive, resilient, and optimistic. She remains dedicated to bringing positive change in London West and amplifying the voices of those within her constituency.