November 2025 at a glance
43
posts & videos
36
House of Commons speeches
1
EDA events
60
photos
Focused on:Advocacy for Kitchener Centre in the House of Commons Jobs, innovation and local business Community events and local organizations Canada's Innovation Capital Safe communities
November was a busy month for Kelly DeRidder, MP for Kitchener Centre. She asked questions in the House of Commons and at committee, met with local groups in Ottawa, and attended events across the riding. This edition covers 43 posts and videos and 36 House of Commons speeches from the month.
Backing Canada's Innovation Capital
Kelly spent much of November speaking up for Kitchener Centre's tech and startup community. She celebrated the launch of Alchemy Nano, a local company working in nanotech dual use technology. She also met in Ottawa with Innovative Carbon Technologies Inc., a Kitchener Centre company developing solutions that could reduce emissions in the cement industry.
At committee and in the House, Kelly asked how Canada can keep the ideas, jobs and talent that start in Waterloo Region. She asked about keeping intellectual property and data in Canada, helping startups grow here, and keeping graduates from leaving for Silicon Valley. She also raised the biomedical engineering talent in the region. As a member of the Science and Research Committee, she says she is working to make sure federal programs support local startups.
Kelly also spoke with the Canadian Federation of Independent Business about the challenges facing small businesses. She met the Lithuanian Ambassador, Egidijus Meilūnas, and highlighted Kitchener's innovation and the contributions of the Lithuanian community.
“As your Member of Parliament, I will always work to support Kitchener Centre’s leadership in tech and innovation.”
From Kelly’s Facebook video
“I’m committed to being a strong voice for them in Parliament and working toward policies that empower innovation, reduce red tape, and ensure fair competition.”
From Kelly’s Facebook post
Housing, health care and safer communities
Kelly sat down with Habitat for Humanity to talk about home ownership, renting and the projects they are leading in Kitchener Centre and Waterloo Region. On Parliament Hill, she joined the Intentional Community Consortium event on housing for people with disabilities. She was glad to see Ann from KW Habilitation there and says she wants to showcase Kitchener's affordable housing work.
On safer communities, Kelly shared why she sponsored Bill C-240 as her Private Members Bill. It aims to connect custody with education, treatment and meaningful opportunities for change. She also shared a community alert about a rise in overdoses in Waterloo Region and asked neighbours to check in on one another.
On health care, Kelly spoke about the doctor shortage and a proposed Blue Seal Program. It would help internationally trained medical professionals get certified to practise in Canada.
“Connecting custody with rehabilitation is key for safer communities.”
From Kelly’s Facebook video
Speaking for local families on affordability
In the House of Commons, Kelly shared stories she heard from Kitchener families who are making hard sacrifices to get by. One father told her he eats barely half a meal a day so his children can have three. Kelly said Canadians need affordability, dignity and hope.
She also held a Kitchener Centre Town Hall at The Museum on November 13 to recap the session, talk about the budget and answer residents' questions. Kelly also reminded young people that applications for Canada Summer Jobs were open.
Around Kitchener Centre
Kelly presented certificates of recognition to local legend Erick Traplin, who has brought joy and music to families for decades, and to Little Mushroom Catering for supporting social services and giving back. She also helped honour the 24th Kitchener Scouts Division at its 70th Anniversary Dinner.
She took part in Remembrance Day ceremonies and the Sikh Remembrance Day ceremony in Kitchener. She also marked the new Veterans Crosswalk in Kitchener. Kelly attended the Bewitched Gala for the Sexual Assault Support Centre of Waterloo Region, which raised funds for services for survivors.
Kelly joined the Hmong New Year celebration, a Nigerian community event and a Sri Lankan community BBQ. She celebrated the grand opening of Puddles Swim School, the new mural with Trevor Clare Art, the K-W Santa Claus Parade and the Kitchener-Waterloo Symphony season launch.
Follow along with Kelly's work for Kitchener Centre and see how you can help. Reach out to the local team to volunteer or donate.
