Lifelong resident and youth leader pledges fresh leadership, stronger school partnerships, and expanded opportunities for local students.

ABBOTSFORD, BC — Born and raised in Abbotsford, youth advocate Vinay Waraich has officially launched his campaign for School Trustee in the upcoming election on Saturday, October 17, 2026.

Running on a bold, practical platform; “Fresh Perspective. Strong Partnerships. Better Opportunities for Students” , Waraich aims to bring a energetic, accessible voice to the Abbotsford Board of Education.

Having grown up through the local public school system, attending John Maclure Elementary, Colleen & Gordie Howe Middle School, and W.J. Mouat Secondary, Waraich combines deep community roots with extensive hands on experience in parliamentary constituent services, grassroots athletics, and local mentorship.

“This city was built by people who showed up, worked hard, looked after their families, and put in the effort to build something better,” said Waraich. “Our schools are the heart of Abbotsford. Board leadership shouldn’t be about sitting back or delivering top down mandates, it’s about listening to parents, understanding classroom realities, and delivering practical, common sense solutions.”

Waraich’s campaign centers on three core commitments:

Student Success Beyond the Classroom: Broadening access to athletics, clubs, leadership programs, and mental health support to build student confidence and prepare youth for life beyond graduation.

Opening School Spaces to the Community: Streamlining local facility policies so neighborhood sports leagues, youth groups, and families can easily utilize school gyms, fields, and spaces outside of school hours.

Stronger Inter-Agency Partnerships: Driving direct collaboration between the Abbotsford School District and City Council to address shared community priorities, including traffic safety in school zones, local recreation, and long-term municipal growth.

“Abbotsford gave me every opportunity to learn, grow, and belong, and I want every student in our city to have that exact same shot,” added Waraich. “Parents deserve transparency and real accountability. Students deserve safe, supportive spaces where they are motivated to succeed. I am ready to be that energetic, accessible advocate for families across Abbotsford.”

For more information on his campaign, visit http://vinaywaraich.ca or contact trustee@vinaywaraich.ca

Authorized by Sahijdeep Waraich, Financial Agent. (778) 598-3751