Rupi Kanda-Rajwan has officially announced her candidacy for Abbotsford City Council in the 2026 municipal election.

Kanda-Rajwan currently serves as an Abbotsford School Trustee, where over the past four years she has built a reputation for community involvement, advocacy, collaboration, and practical leadership. Known for her integrity and people-first approach, she says her decision to run for city council comes from a desire to continue serving Abbotsford at a broader level during a time of rapid growth and change.

“My focus has always been about building connections, listening to people, and helping create opportunities that strengthen our community,” said Kanda-Rajwan. “Abbotsford needs leadership with clarity, direction, and a proactive mindset. We need to plan for growth while protecting the sense of community that makes this city special.”

Kanda-Rajwan states her decision to leave her current position as school trustee comes from a belief in accountability and completing the commitments she made to voters during her 2022 campaign.

“I’m choosing to leave my current position as school trustee because I feel I completed my role and fulfilled the commitments I made to the community during my campaign,” she explained. “Why hold a seat if you have completed your tasks? I believe leadership is about continuing to grow, serve where you are needed most, and bringing that experience forward to benefit the wider community.”

A former daycare owner/operator, Kanda-Rajwan holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Child and Youth Care from the University of the Fraser Valley and a Master’s degree in Education from the University of British Columbia. 

Since being elected as the first Punjabi-Canadian female Abbotsford School Trustee in 2022, Kanda-Rajwan has focused heavily on visibility, communication, and inclusion throughout the district. Determined to build meaningful relationships across Abbotsford, she kept a personal goal of visiting every school in the district during her first term — something she will accomplish by the end of the current school year after attending all 46 schools.

“For me, leadership means showing up,” she explained. “It means being present in the community, understanding different perspectives, and building authentic relationships with people from all walks of life.”

Kanda-Rajwan says those experiences reinforced the importance of transparency, communication, and practical solutions — principles she plans to bring to city council.

Among her priorities are expanding sports fields and community facilities, improving transportation and parking solutions for students and families, supporting smart and balanced growth, and strengthening communication between council and residents across all areas of Abbotsford.

“I believe leadership is not about making empty promises,” Kanda-Rajwan said. “It’s about being practical, transparent, and mindful of what can realistically be accomplished within a four-year term. People want leaders who listen, communicate clearly, and focus on achievable outcomes.”

Kanda-Rajwan has long been recognized for her volunteerism and community leadership. Through her organization Cozy Covers’ Annual Clothing drive, she has helped collect and donate thousands of clothing items and raise significant funds for local outreach organizations supporting vulnerable individuals and families. Her online fundraiser “Virtually Connecting Our Community” raised more than $19,000 during the COVID-19 pandemic to support local organizations and residents in need.

Organizing community initiatives such as the popular Cup of Cheer campaign, Kanda-Rajwan has brought together families, local businesses, and community organizations to uplift those experiencing hardship during the holiday season. Her steadfast commitment to community service has focused on fostering connection, inclusion, and meaningful assistance for residents across Abbotsford.

She has also remained heavily involved in youth sports throughout the city, volunteering as a team manager, organizing fundraisers, and bolstering initiatives that create positive opportunities for young athletes and families.

Residents and colleagues describe Kanda-Rajwan as an approachable and collaborative public servant who consistently brings people together. Many highlight her ability to listen thoughtfully, build strong relationships across diverse groups, and lead with professionalism while staying grounded in local values.

In addition to her governance work, Kanda-Rajwan has served on numerous committees focused on literacy, inclusion, youth initiatives, arts, and public engagement. Since 2022, she has also served on the board for Tourism Abbotsford, helping promote growth within the local sports sector and broader economy. She has emceed Abbotsford’s “Nights of Music” events for middle and secondary schools and continues to champion initiatives that strengthen connection and a sense of belonging throughout the city.

Her vision for Abbotsford is centred around creating “a city where people can truly live, work, and play — supported by thoughtful growth and ongoing community investment.”

“Our city is growing quickly, and with that growth comes responsibility,” she said. “We need improved infrastructure, clearer plans, better communication, and leadership that stays connected to the people it serves. I want to continue being a voice that brings people together and focuses on solutions.”

Kanda-Rajwan promises her campaign will continue expanding over the coming months as she connects with residents, businesses, organizations, and community groups throughout Abbotsford.

“Together, we can change the narrative,” she said. “I’m ready to continue serving this community and helping build a stronger future for Abbotsford.”