We acknowledge that we are fortunate to live, work and play on Treaty 6 territory. This land, known by many names, has and continues to be cared for by the Siksikáí'tsitapi, Denesuline, nêhiyawak, Anishinaabe, Stoney Nakoda, and the Métis from the North Saskatchewan River Territory. This land has also been imprinted by the footsteps of the Inuit. The histories, languages, and cultures of Indigenous Peoples continue to enrich our shared heritage. We are grateful for the traditional Knowledge Keepers and Elders who are still with us today and those who have gone before us. We acknowledge these things as a small act of reconciliation and as a reminder that we are all Treaty People, bound to one another by the spirit and intent of Treaty.
Saadiq Sumar is a father of two and the current Trustee for Ward G. Over the last four years, students and families have come to know him as someone who has stood up for them. Some examples of this are his advocacy on funding related to obtaining and restoring funding through Jordan’s Principle and supporting students with complex needs through requests to update the Standards for Special Education.
He feels the Edmonton Public School Board needs to continue to prioritize equitable and inclusive education in order to continue to drive Edmonton’s growth forward as a vibrant and diverse capital city. With the belief that education is fundamental for a positive and effective society, Saadiq will continue to defend the high quality of education our children receive in Edmonton, ensuring we remain highly ranked globally and continue to provide a world-class education.
Saadiq believes that part of a great education means that students leave the school system as empathetic and engaged citizens. Saadiq has and will continue to be a strong voice on the school board and will ensure that our board’s governance and actions reflect Edmonton’s vibrant multicultural fabric.
Getting involved and dedicating himself to positive change has always been important for Saadiq – during his time at the University of Alberta, Saadiq entered student politics, initially becoming involved in his residence community in Lister Hall and with the Residence Halls Association and eventually was elected the Vice President (Student Life) of the Students’ Union. A Professional Engineer, Saadiq works to improve Edmonton’s utility infrastructure with multi-million dollar construction and system integrity projects. He continues to volunteer his time towards education and higher-learning, maintaining involvement with multiple alumni committees including both university and fraternity councils. He also managed a program to tutor school-aged children, including refugee students, across Edmonton with the Aga Khan Ismaili Council for Edmonton Education Board.
Saadiq currently resides in Ward G with his partner, their two children, and their dog.