John Nweke, M.A., RCC
Registered Clinical Counselor

“I am pleased to recommend Candace Knoll for the School District 43 Trustee position. I have known Candace for almost 4 years since beginning our journey together with the Junior Black Achievement Awards (JRBAA). Throughout, Candace has shown an unshakable will to improve the lives of her community. She has hosted Impact panels in which the youth are given a voice to explore their experience and encourage change in their schools. This effort directly resulted in the creation of several Black Student Unions in certain Surrey schools. In addition, through the JRBAA, Candace also hosts various skill building workshops, including a speech competition where the core skills of self-expression and self-advocacy are nurtured and encouraged. Her dedication to creating these building blocks of a healthy, engaged community reflects the very essence of a school trustee's role.

As the mother of a District 43 alumnus, Candace has firsthand knowledge of needs, challenges, and values of the community. This personal insight is bolstered by her extensive experience serving on boards such as the International Training in Communication (ITC), the National Congress of Black Women, and chairing Local 1944’s National Civil and Human Rights Committee. These roles reflect Candace’s commitment to leadership, equity, and community service, all of which make her an ideal candidate for the trustee position. Additionally, her recent certifications in Community Capacity Building and Restorative Justice are a testament to her drive for progress.

In our work together, I have seen Candace’s joy and excitement about empowering the youth, engaging parents, and ensuring healthy and supportive systems were in place for the children of today, and those yet to come. The dedication and compassion with which she applies herself will be a great aid to School District 43, as it has already been with all the youth currently in her care at the JRBAA.

I am confident Candace Knoll will bring invaluable perspective, dedication, and compassion to the role of School District 43 Trustee, creating a lasting positive impact on the lives of students, families, and the community she serves.”