From Passion to Action: Why I’m Running For City Council

I delivered the following speech at my Campaign Launch on March 30, 2025 and was humbled by the response. Now, I’m sharing it with all of you.

Hi everyone,
First, I want to sincerely thank you all for being here today. Your support means the world to me. You likely know why we’re here, but I want to take a moment to introduce myself and talk about my connection to the land that we’re on.

If we haven’t met yet—hi, I’m Rajah Maggay.

I was born and raised in Edmonton. My family immigrated from the Philippines years ago in search of opportunity. We planted roots here and made Edmonton our home. I owe everything that I have to this land. 
Where we find ourselves within the city has been named Ward Nakota Isga stretching from Groat Road all the way out to 231 St that borders Enoch Cree Nation. 
Nakota Isga, deriving from the Alexis Nakota Sioux Nation, means the people. And people are at the heart of everything that I do. It is up to us in partnership to uplift one another.
My ties to the west end run deep. From junior high in Canora, to high school in McQueen. I remember summer days at Fred Broadstock pool, waiting for the school special to WEM, and working my very first job at the Jasper Place Library. 

This is where I grew up, and this is where I choose to build my future every day.

Through my work with the City of Edmonton Youth Council I discovered my passion for public service. Then, five years ago, the opportunity of a lifetime presented itself to me: working behind the scenes, listening, learning, and serving the people of Ward Nakota Isga. 
That experience only deepened my commitment to this community and made it clear—I want to do more.
The west end is evolving. Decades of investment are coming to fruition with the completion of the Valley Line West and the Lewis Farms Recreation Centre and Library. 
These projects are game-changers, but with growth comes challenges. We must be proactive in shaping the future of our neighborhoods so that everyone benefits, and so our city can reach its full potential.
I believe in our community. I believe in building a future where everyone feels heard, supported, and empowered to thrive. That means bringing people together, listening, and working toward a stronger, more connected Ward Nakota Isga.

And that’s why I’m running to be your next City Councillor for Ward Nakota Isga.

I understand the challenges our communities face, and I know how important local government decisions are to our daily lives. 
My experience working at the library, supporting residents at City Hall, and running a small business has given me firsthand insight into how our city operates, the complexities we have to navigate, and where we can do better.
That’s why I’ve put together an initial platform to share my vision for Edmonton’s future. It’s focused on four pillars: Affordability, Thriving Communities, Preparing for Growth, and Engaging Every Voice.

My platform is not just a campaign promise – it’s a commitment to action. 

It will evolve over the Spring and Summer as I connect with more of you at the doors and at events. It will be informed by your lived experiences. 
I’ve done the work to start the conversation, but this campaign isn’t just about me—it’s about all of us. It’s about shaping our communities. And more importantly, it’s about doing it together. 
It’s going to be a long journey but one that I’m ready for – So, are you with me?

Then come election time in October, vote Rajah Maggay as your next City Councillor of Ward Nakota Isga.

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