Kelly DeRidder on Jobs, innovation and local business

ability 🇨🇦 A self-reliant Canada 🚓 Safe streets 🏡 Reviving the Canadian Dream — where hard work means a good home in a safe neighbourhood, right here in the greatest country on Earth. Thank you to everyone who welcomed us and shared your stories. Your voices matter — and they’re shaping the future we’re building together. #BetterTogether #CanadianDream #PierrePoilievre #teamworkmakesthedreamwork

icy. From AI and deep tech to advanced manufacturing, the conversation reinforced why our region truly is Canada’s capital of innovation. For Kitchener Centre, tech isn’t just important — it’s vital. It drives local opportunity, attracts talent, and supports families right here at home. The visit even brought back memories of my own time in robotics during secondary school — building machines for final projects and learning hands-on. 🤖✨ I’m excited about the collaboration and policy development that will keep Kitchener Centre and our region a global leader in tech and innovation. #Innovation #KitchenerCentre #UWaterloo #FutureOfTech #AI #advancedmanufacturing @conniecodymp @mattstraussksh

e discussions around artificial intelligence, dual-use technologies, and how the federal government can better support the local tech ecosystem and the founders driving innovation here. Special thank you to The Honourable Cheryl Gallant for making the trip down to Kitchener Centre to support this initiative. As well, thank you Barbara Shackleton for your support and insight. Grateful for the chance to listen, learn, and collaborate. Looking forward to building on this momentum 🇨🇦 @cherylgallantmp @shackleton.barbara @communitech

dents & Immigration, and Student Affordability. I enjoyed learning more about the important work CSI is doing and look forward to finding ways we can align on shared priorities to support students here in Kitchener Centre. You can learn more about it here: www.conestogastudents.com/representation/advocacy #KitchenerCentre #ConestogaCollege #StudentSuccess #Community

g our community for over 50 years, offering a wide range of supports — from inclusive housing and employment services to youth programs and early learning — all grounded in the belief that everyone deserves to live a good life and be part of a welcoming, supportive community. 👟 YEP (Youth Exploring Possibilities) Summer Program This 9-week summer initiative engages youth aged 13–25 in recreation, fitness, work readiness, and community exploration. Thanks to Canada Summer Jobs, youth staff lead themed weeks packed with activities — and with the help of Grand River Transit, participants explore all corners of Waterloo Region, building independence and connection. 💼 KW Career Compass KW Habilitation also supports youth employment through KW Career Compass. With Canada Summer Jobs funding, a dedicated job coach helps young people prepare for, secure, and maintain meaningful summer jobs — building confidence and career skills. 🏘️ Intentional Community Consortium (ICC) KW Habilitation is part of the ICC, a national effort to address the affordable housing crisis for people with diverse abilities. I look forward to welcoming the ICC to Parliament Hill in October of 2025 for an important conversation about inclusive housing solutions. 🌍 Global Leadership Exchange – Coming to Ottawa in 2026! Canada will host the Global Leadership Exchange World Conference in Ottawa, June 1–5, 2026, with the theme Ideas to Action: Inspiring Leaders to mobilize collective solutions KW Habilitation continues to show us what’s possible when we invest in people, inclusion, and community. I’m proud to support their work in Kitchener Centre and beyond. 💙 Please visit www.kwhab.ca for more information #KWAwesome #KitchenerCentre #YouthEmpowerment #InclusiveCommunities #CanadaSummerJobs #GrandRiverTransit #KWCareerCompass #ICC #GLE2026 #DisabilityInclusion #CommunityLeadership

sive targets risk harming local economies, disrupting jobs, and burdening consumers. 1️⃣ What’s the problem? The federal EV sales mandate requires all new passenger vehicles sold in Canada to be zero-emission by 2035, with 20% sales targets starting as soon as next year. While the goal of reducing emissions is important, the rapid rollout is creating challenges—supply chain shortages, high vehicle prices, and a lack of charging infrastructure—especially in communities not yet fully prepared. 2️⃣ How does this impact Kitchener Centre? > Charging infrastructure in our neighbourhoods still lags far behind the demand this mandate will create, leaving many residents without reliable options. > Many residents are already juggling tight budgets — the average income in Kitchener Centre is about $51,400 a year, and renters spend 44% to 49% of their income just to keep a roof over their heads. > Additional costs from EV mandates—like higher vehicle prices or limited choices—aren’t just inconvenient; they hit people where it really hurts by making trade-offs between transportation, rent, and putting food on the table. 3️⃣ How Conservatives will fix it A Conservative Government will: > Support EV adoption through choice, not force, ensuring Canadians can buy the vehicles that fit their needs and budgets. > Invest in charging infrastructure first, especially in communities like ours, so the shift to EVs is practical and accessible. > Work with industry, not against it, to set realistic timelines that protect jobs, keep costs down, and maintain consumer choice while still moving toward environmental goals. This approach ensures Kitchener Centre residents aren’t left behind—and that our economy, environment, and families all benefit from a balanced, affordable transition.

sive targets risk harming local economies, disrupting jobs, and burdening consumers. 1️⃣ What’s the problem? The federal EV sales mandate requires all new passenger vehicles sold in Canada to be zero-emission by 2035, with 20% sales targets starting as soon as next year. While the goal of reducing emissions is important, the rapid rollout is creating challenges—supply chain shortages, high vehicle prices, and a lack of charging infrastructure—especially in communities not yet fully prepared. 2️⃣ How does this impact Kitchener Centre? > Charging infrastructure in our neighbourhoods still lags far behind the demand this mandate will create, leaving many residents without reliable options. > Many residents are already juggling tight budgets — the average income in Kitchener Centre is about $51,400 a year, and renters spend 44% to 49% of their income just to keep a roof over their heads. > Additional costs from EV mandates—like higher vehicle prices or limited choices—aren’t just inconvenient; they hit people where it really hurts by making trade-offs between transportation, rent, and putting food on the table. 3️⃣ How Conservatives will fix it A Conservative Government will: > Support EV adoption through choice, not force, ensuring Canadians can buy the vehicles that fit their needs and budgets. > Invest in charging infrastructure first, especially in communities like ours, so the shift to EVs is practical and accessible. > Work with industry, not against it, to set realistic timelines that protect jobs, keep costs down, and maintain consumer choice while still moving toward environmental goals. This approach ensures Kitchener Centre residents aren’t left behind—and that our economy, environment, and families all benefit from a balanced, affordable transition. https://www.theglobeandmail.com/business/article-ontario-mayors-urge-ottawa-to-drop-ev-sales-mandate/

sive targets risk harming local economies, disrupting jobs, and burdening consumers. 1️⃣ What’s the problem? The federal EV sales mandate requires all new passenger vehicles sold in Canada to be zero-emission by 2035, with 20% sales targets starting as soon as next year. While the goal of reducing emissions is important, the rapid rollout is creating challenges—supply chain shortages, high vehicle prices, and a lack of charging infrastructure—especially in communities not yet fully prepared. 2️⃣ How does this impact Kitchener Centre? > Charging infrastructure in our neighbourhoods still lags far behind the demand this mandate will create, leaving many residents without reliable options. > Many residents are already juggling tight budgets — the average income in Kitchener Centre is about $51,400 a year, and renters spend 44% to 49% of their income just to keep a roof over their heads. > Additional costs from EV mandates—like higher vehicle prices or limited choices—aren’t just inconvenient; they hit people where it really hurts by making trade-offs between transportation, rent, and putting food on the table. 3️⃣ How Conservatives will fix it A Conservative Government will: > Support EV adoption through choice, not force, ensuring Canadians can buy the vehicles that fit their needs and budgets. > Invest in charging infrastructure first, especially in communities like ours, so the shift to EVs is practical and accessible. > Work with industry, not against it, to set realistic timelines that protect jobs, keep costs down, and maintain consumer choice while still moving toward environmental goals. This approach ensures Kitchener Centre residents aren’t left behind—and that our economy, environment, and families all benefit from a balanced, affordable transition. https://www.theglobeandmail.com/business/article-ontario-mayors-urge-ottawa-to-drop-ev-sales-mandate/

sive targets risk harming local economies, disrupting jobs, and burdening consumers. 1️⃣ What’s the problem? The federal EV sales mandate requires all new passenger vehicles sold in Canada to be zero-emission by 2035, with 20% sales targets starting as soon as next year. While the goal of reducing emissions is important, the rapid rollout is creating challenges—supply chain shortages, high vehicle prices, and a lack of charging infrastructure—especially in communities not yet fully prepared. 2️⃣ How does this impact Kitchener Centre? > Charging infrastructure in our neighbourhoods still lags far behind the demand this mandate will create, leaving many residents without reliable options. > Many residents are already juggling tight budgets — the average income in Kitchener Centre is about $51,400 a year, and renters spend 44% to 49% of their income just to keep a roof over their heads. > Additional costs from EV mandates—like higher vehicle prices or limited choices—aren’t just inconvenient; they hit people where it really hurts by making trade-offs between transportation, rent, and putting food on the table. 3️⃣ How Conservatives will fix it A Conservative Government will: > Support EV adoption through choice, not force, ensuring Canadians can buy the vehicles that fit their needs and budgets. > Invest in charging infrastructure first, especially in communities like ours, so the shift to EVs is practical and accessible. > Work with industry, not against it, to set realistic timelines that protect jobs, keep costs down, and maintain consumer choice while still moving toward environmental goals. This approach ensures Kitchener Centre residents aren’t left behind—and that our economy, environment, and families all benefit from a balanced, affordable transition. https://www.theglobeandmail.com/business/article-ontario-mayors-urge-ottawa-to-drop-ev-sales-mandate/

sion is clear: to make summer camp affordable, inclusive, and rooted in community. They partner with local churches to create programs that are accessible and welcoming for all families — and it shows. One of my favourite moments? Meeting Aria. 💙 Aria’s story is what this program is all about. She started with Epic after Grade 10 as a camp counsellor. Since then, she’s grown into leadership roles — Assistant Director, Director, and now Regional Supervisor. That’s 7 years of summer growth, mentorship, and real-world experience. Epic doesn’t just build fun camps — they build leaders. And Aria is proof. I got to see the campers in action too — laughing, running, and playing a game of colour tag using chalk paint on their hands. It looked like so much fun, and it was clear these kids were having a summer to remember. Please check them out: https://epicandonside.ca/ Thank you to the entire Epic & Onside team for the work you do across Canada — and especially here at home. 💫 #CanadaSummerJobs #EpicCamps #OnsideCamps #KitchenerCentre #LeadershipInAction #YouthEmpowerment #AffordableCamps #CommunityMatters #AriaTheLeader #SummerJobsSuccess #BuildingTheNextGeneration

kly themes like Minecraft Makers, LEGO Adventurers, and Robot Programming — no experience needed! 🕘 9am–4pm | Before & after care available 💰 Affordable rates for 3, 4, or 5-day weeks 🔗 Register: stemcamp.ca/stem-camp-kitchener Let’s keep building bright futures through STEM! 💡👩‍🔬👨‍💻

sion and expertise to every appointment. Whether you're in Kitchener, Waterloo, Guelph, Elmira, New Hamburg, or Simcoe, Arnold Hearing is here to support your hearing health. 👏 Thank you for being a trusted part of our region’s wellness landscape for over seven decades! #ArnoldHearing #KitchenerCentre #HearingHealth #CommunityCare #75YearsStrong #kitchenercentre

ing entrepreneurs turn big ideas into thriving businesses — right here in Waterloo Region. Had great conversations with CEO Ruth Casselman and COO Tabatha Laverty about the Centre’s full-service model and its real impact on our community. 🔑 Key local priorities: ✅ Retaining top talent in the region ✅ Engaging more university co-op students to keep innovation flowing Proud to support organizations that keep Kitchener Centre at the heart of Canada’s innovation economy. 💡 #KitchenerCentre #Startups #Innovation #TalentRetention #AcceleratorCentre #WaterlooTech #FutureOfWork #Entrepreneurship

over 70,000 summer jobs across the country in areas like: ✅ Climate action ✅ Community services ✅ Tourism & recreation ✅ Skilled trades and more 🗓️ Hiring deadline is July 21st, so it’s down to the wire — but there are still great opportunities out there for those looking to gain experience and earn a paycheque this summer. Anyone interested, please send me a direct message, and I can forward you the list of employers in Kitchener Centre that are approved for this program. This is a win for young workers, local employers, and Canada’s future economy. 🌱 #CanadaSummerJobs #YouthEmployment #SupportingYouth #kitchenercentre

ing Junior Picasso's and Mini Monet's (ages 4-12) to check out her Summer Art Camp! A world of imagination brought to life through painting, drawing, sculpture, outdoors sketches, and a whole lot of art magic. Think of the masterpieces for your fridge! There are spaces still available. I encourage you all to check out her website and learn more about the camps and classes she offers. Thank you so much for your time, Olena! #kitchenercentre #localartist #finearts #supportlocal

I just love that we have a nursery tucked away in #kitchenercentre with beautiful quality, affordable product. If you haven’t stopped by - do so! #shoplocal #supportlocal #businessspotlight #smallbusinesslove

ones, and fading confidence. Our young people are eager to contribute, to grow, to dream—but the opportunities just aren’t there. Right now, businesses want to focus on hiring, expanding, and contributing to our economy—but instead, many are being forced to scale back or put their plans on hold. Why? Because they’re waiting for leadership. They need a clear, reliable budget from our government. A budget is more than a financial document; it’s a statement of priorities. And right now, our businesses need to know that they’re a priority. They need a plan they can believe in All opposition parties came together and voted in favor of seeing a budget proposed this spring. We reached across the aisle, we did our part—but we’re being ignored. We’ve asked for a budget because without one, there is no plan. And without a plan, families, businesses, and communities are left in uncertainty. It’s time to step up and deliver the roadmap we need to move forward.

ch, including any reports of the Chief Science Advisor, and any other matter which the House refers to the standing committee. Innovation and technology is a vital part of the economy in Kitchener Centre and in the broader Waterloo Region, and science and research are of critical importance to all Canadians. I humbly and proudly accept this important role and look forward to playing my part to improve the health of Canadians, improve the environment, drive innovation and economic growth and improve the quality of life for all Canadians.

credible learning more about all of the local organizations that give this region its unique spirit. I am committed to representing everyone in the riding to the best of my ability. CAFKA doesn’t just bring art into public spaces — it brings curiosity and connection into the everyday lives of people across this community. CAFKA creates an open invitation to pause, to reflect, and to see your surroundings — something we could all do more of in this busy world we live in. And in a world that can often feel isolating or fragmented, organizations like CAFKA help stitch us back together. What makes this even more remarkable is that CAFKA achieves all of this with a small but mighty team: one permanent staff member, a working board, and a network of collaborators, artists, and community partners. Your hard work and dedication are something to be truly proud of. As an organization that receives federal funding, CAFKA utilizes programs like Canada Summer Jobs and Young Canada Works — these lifelines for young artists, arts administrators, and curators help to build careers. I’ve also heard the concern loud and clear: Waterloo Region remains underrepresented when it comes to federal arts funding. That’s something I will raise and advocate for, because the cultural life of our communities deserves equity — not just in spirit, but in funding. So, to the artists, organizers, funders, community partners, and everyone who helps bring CAFKA’s vision to life: thank you. Your work strengthens community bonds and connection that are a major reason why Kitchener Centre is so unique. I look forward to experiencing this year’s installations, and I encourage everyone — whether you’ve seen every CAFKA since 2001 or this is your very first — to truly enjoy the experience and share it widely. Thank you, and congratulations on the launch of CAFKA.25.

mall business daring to dream. We must invest in key industries—green technology, the arts and creative sectors, advanced manufacturing, MedTech, deep tech, AI, and more—we need to implement policies that empower our people, and drive investment, ensuring our economy is sustainable and future-proof. Today our community has an opportunity to forge a new path ahead. We are well positioned to do so. We must support the initiatives of the leaders of our industries on a federal level, to ensure a prosperous future for Kitchener Centre.

touring their beautiful new facility. I am keen to spend time in the community and to meet those I represent. If you have an upcoming event, let our office know through our website and if we can, we’ll get it on the calendar.

one-third of Canadian small businesses have adjusted or paused their summer hiring plans, according to a survey by Merchant Growth. Kitchener businesses need a plan. A budget is a plan. Why does the government refuse to heed our calls and table a budget that reverses its inflationary spending?