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Sonia AndhiA Surrey resident with three adult children who attended local schools, Sonia has been actively engaged in community initiatives for the last 30 years. She is a firm believer that education is the foundation of society and every child deserves the opportunity to grow and learn in a safe and healthy environment.
As a social worker and family counsellor, Sonia has worked tirelessly with the most vulnerable populations from children to teenagers and parents. She has a good understanding of the needs of Surrey students because she sees children as young as five up to high school graduates who are struggling with academic challenges, poverty, depression, anxiety, suicidal tendencies and gang involvement. She also works with parents, teachers and other school staff to support them in the challenges that they face in their jobs. Working from a community centred approach, Sonia has founded the Shakti Society and Shakti Awards to address the issues of family violence and empowerment of women. She has honoured over 120 women since 2000 for their accomplishments to highlight the positive female role models among us. Sonia has sat on the board of Surrey Women's Centre and currently chairs the media sub-committee of the Network for Eliminating Violence in Relationships which is comprised of over 50 stakeholders, such as teachers, police officers, non-profit organizations and media from Surrey and Delta. With her three degrees, Sonia plans to bring positive and meaningful changes to the Surrey School Board by reviewing and updating policies to keep them current with the emerging needs of our students. Schools can be the bedrock of child development and family enhancement where communities can come together to build a vast support network. Fluent in Punjabi, Hindi and Urdu, Sonia brings the lived experience of an immigrant to the school district which is essential in a diverse city like Surrey. |
Why we are working together.
I have known Charlene since the time that our children went to school together, almost 25 years ago. She was very involved in the French Immersion program then and continues to be as engaged in her work with students and parents. Charlene’s experience of working within the school district as staff, and as a past trustee will bring a unique strength to her work on the Board.
Cindy is a passionate, knowledgeable, and strong advocate for Surrey students. Her advocacy has earned her respect and credibility with parents and all stakeholders within the Surrey School District. As a parent of two young children, she has a good understanding of the challenges of working parents and their children.
Mary-Em is also a parent of two children who attend Surrey schools. She has worked tirelessly to hold the current School Board accountable by attending School Board meetings over the past 3 years and working on various committees. Her dedication and willingness to work hard, ask tough questions, and openness to working with Surrey students and families will make her a strong trustee.
I have known Charlene since the time that our children went to school together, almost 25 years ago. She was very involved in the French Immersion program then and continues to be as engaged in her work with students and parents. Charlene’s experience of working within the school district as staff, and as a past trustee will bring a unique strength to her work on the Board.
Cindy is a passionate, knowledgeable, and strong advocate for Surrey students. Her advocacy has earned her respect and credibility with parents and all stakeholders within the Surrey School District. As a parent of two young children, she has a good understanding of the challenges of working parents and their children.
Mary-Em is also a parent of two children who attend Surrey schools. She has worked tirelessly to hold the current School Board accountable by attending School Board meetings over the past 3 years and working on various committees. Her dedication and willingness to work hard, ask tough questions, and openness to working with Surrey students and families will make her a strong trustee.