Maryam Monsef
About Maryam Monsef
Maryam Monsef serves as the Minister for Women and Gender Equality and Rural Economic Development in Canada, a position she has held since 2019. She has a background in public service and community engagement, having previously worked as a Member of Parliament and in various roles supporting immigrants and women’s rights.
Work at Government of Canada
Maryam Monsef has held multiple roles within the Government of Canada. She currently serves as the Minister for Women and Gender Equality and Rural Economic Development, a position she has held since 2019. Prior to this, she was the Minister of Democratic Institutions from 2015 to 2017 and the Minister of International Development for eight months in 2019. Additionally, she served as the Minister of Status of Women from 2017, contributing to initiatives focused on gender equality.
Political Career and Representation
Maryam Monsef has been a Member of Parliament for Peterborough-Kawartha since 2015. She initially served for one month in 2015 and has since been re-elected, representing her constituents for nine years. Monsef was also a Federal Liberal Candidate for the Liberal Party of Canada in 2015, which marked the beginning of her political career.
Education and Expertise
Maryam Monsef studied at Trent University, where she earned a Bachelor of Science (B.Sc.) in Psychology. Her educational background supports her roles in public service and advocacy, particularly in areas related to gender equality and community development.
Community Engagement and Initiatives
Monsef has a history of community involvement and support for marginalized groups. She was the former director of the New Canadians Centre, which aids immigrants and refugees in the Peterborough area. Additionally, she co-founded the Red Pashmina Campaign, which raised over $150,000 to support women in Afghanistan. Her work reflects a commitment to social justice and community development.
Achievements and Recognition
Maryam Monsef is a co-recipient of the YMCA’s Peace Medallion, recognizing her contributions to peace and community service. She has also represented Canada at the United Nations Commission on the Status of Women, highlighting her role in advocating for women's rights on an international platform.