Nomination Speech: Summer Nudel

Hello everyone.

My name is Summer Nudel and I'm seeking the nomination to be your next Liberal representative for Beaches-East York.

It comes down to:

- What I believe in

- The experience I have,

- and what we need in Ottawa now.

Before I go any further—I want to talk about the Island Airport. For many of you, this is why you’re here today listening to these speeches. With only 5 minutes, I must be brief- read my entire statement on my website.

I am opposed to what’s been suggested. Here is my perspective.

It is unclear to me what problem is being solved by flying jets from Billy Bishop. Assuming there is a true need for more airport capacity, I believe we should invest in expanding Pearson, with funding from the Major Projects Office which was recently made available through Bill C-5.

 That makes a lot more sense for the Canadian economy, the environment and for Toronto.

 To be an effective MP, it takes someone who bridges grassroots empathy with senior leadership. Someone who doesn't just discuss policy in the abstract but has spent decades implementing it on the ground.

Over a twenty-year career dedicated to social work, community development, and housing equity, I have proven my ability to navigate complex institutional systems while keeping vulnerable people at the center of every decision.

I have lived in Beaches-East York since 2014. I raised my daughter here. We spent our Saturdays biking at Taylor Massey. We eat breakfast at the Sunset Grill. I do yoga at Beach Yoga Centre. I take my dog to play ball at Cassels Park.

I am an active volunteer, like many of you. You will find me in my yellow vest at the Toronto Beaches Lions Club or organizing fundraising meetings of 100 Women Who Care Toronto East—without the yellow vest.

And I have worked here, too.

My work isn't just theoretical; it’s on the doorsteps of our neighborhood.

At WoodGreen Community Services I was part of a swat team with a doctor, nurse and me (the social worker) on the ground, advocating for community members.

I have taught many of the young people studying social service work at Centennial College. I may have even mediated some of your custody and access disputes. . . in my private practice or through Legal Aid Ontario.

I have personally worked with Tenants in our buildings on Kingston Road, Gerrard, St. Clair, Woodbine, Eastwood, Elmer, Norway, Lumsden, Haldon, Wakunda. . . I could go on and on.

 But I also know how to scale local impact into systemic change. I am most proud of my work helping to establish the Office of the Commissioner of Housing Equity where I am currently the Senior Advisor to the Commissioner.

My leadership is defined by practical compassion, collaboration and a fierce commitment to progressive values. . .Including as stewards of our environment. I know how to bring diverse voices to the table, mediate challenging conflicts, and deliver measurable results.

 As your Liberal candidate, I will bring this combination of executive experience, deep community roots and a commitment to protect our natural environment to the political stage, offering voters a trusted, frontline champion who is ready to lead on day one.

Our Prime Minister, Mark Carney, is a political gift. The work he has done, to build and protect this amazing country is brilliant.

 It is my firm belief that I have, through my vast experience, the mindset needed to help the Prime Minister and the Party build a stronger Canada for all.

 My name is Summer Nudel, and I want your vote. It would be a privilege to represent this riding. Not just for some, but for everyone.

Thank you.