Brampton’s 1st Filipino councilor receives ‘women of influence in local gov’t’ award

Photo from rowenasantosbrampton/Instagram

Brampton councilor Rowena Santos is another manifestation of the fact that women are effective leaders and advocates.

Fueled by a passion for transforming the political culture in pursuit of a progressive city, Santos was honored with the 2023 Women of Influence in Local Government Award by Municipal World.

Recognizing women who have made substantial contributions to the field of public service, the first Filipino councilor on the City of Brampton Council is the first single recipient of the said award since it was launched in 2019, according to a city release.

“This award is a testament to the pursuit of progress for all women in politics,” says the greater equity, diversity, and inclusion in municipal government advocate.

The works of Rowena Santos

The award also acknowledges Santos’ commitment to advocating for the people and her services as a vocal proponent in the fight against violence against women. She also initiated a motion to recognize gender and intimate partner-based violence as a prevalent issue within the city.

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A post shared by Rowena Santos (@rowenasantosbrampton)

Expanding on this roster of services is the establishment of Brampton’s first Women’s Empowerment Group for city staff, which is the formation of a Women’s Advisory Committee and gender-based analysis training for senior leaders.

According to her biography, prior to being elected as a councilor, she spent more than 10 years working at the Ontario legislature. During this time, she played a pivotal role in mentoring several youth, encouraging them to be politically active and aware.

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“My sincere thanks to the women who have paved the way, my council and city colleagues and the women of Brampton who support the advocacy for our community. This award recognizes the power of hard work and the increasing influence women have in our political sphere. Take your place. Own the space. Do it with style, humor, smarts and grace,” she says.

Santos was elected in 2018 to Brampton City Council for Wards 1 and 5 making her the first Filipino on council.