Why Vote for Candace Knoll

Experience. Leadership. Community

MEET CANDACE

A 27-year resident of Coquitlam, Candace is a proud sixth-generation Canadian of mixed heritage, predominantly Black with Mohawk ancestry. She and her husband, Jeff, have shared 36 years together and are proud parents of their son, Jesse. At home, they're also kept busy by two rescued tuxedo cats, Porkchop and Douglas.

A lifetime of community service, leadership, and advocacy dedicated to strengthening schools and building stronger communities.

Recognized for Leadership & Service

Recognized Leader

Recipient of the King Charles III Coronation Medal, YWCA Women of Distinction Award Nominee and other honours recognizing decades of community leadership and service.

Community Leadership

Serves on the Hogan's Alley Society Board. She is a former board member of the New Westminster and District Labour Council (NWDLC), and former board member of the National Congress of Black Women Foundation (NCBWF).

Education Advocate

Founder and President of the Junior Black Achievement Awards Society (JrBAA), empowering youth through education, mentorship, leadership, and opportunity.

Proven Leadership

Bringing 28 years at TELUS, together with leadership roles in USW, ITC, and community organizations to advocate, collaborate, and lead.

  • I have achieved the Community Champion, Leading Star, Shooting Star, and Customer 1st Champion, TELUS Awards. I took part in World Mental Health Days at the TELUS worksite, brought the United Way Period promise initiative to the workplace, and volunteered for Pink Shirt Day with proceeds going to the Amanda Todd Legacy.

  • As a member of USW Local 1944 Unit 51, I have held many positions throughout my union career. I am a former Unit Chair, Chair of Local’s National Civil and Human Rights Committee, a member of USW National Anti-Racism Committee, and a Member of the Local 1944 Bargaining Committee for the 2017 and 2023 Collective Agreements.  I represented the USW on the New Westminster & District Labour Council (NWDLC) Executive Board.

  • I am a Pacific Northwest Region Past President and in 2013 I placed 3rd in the International Speech Competition.  I earned my level 3, Skilled Communicator (SC) in the ITC Accreditation Program, and I am a Certified Trainer of the POWERtalk Public Speaking, “Short Course”. I am certified in basic Parliamentary Procedures.

  • I bring significant experience from serving on various boards, including my roles as former President of the Northwest Region, ITC, Executive Board Member of the New Westminster & District Labour Council (NWDLC), and my current position as a Director with the Hogan’s Alley Society.

    My service with these organizations reflects my leadership in community development and social responsibility. Additionally, I hold certifications from Kwomais Board Leadership and Governance Training, as well a Foundations of Governance Certification from Synergy Executive & Boards Consulting Group. From Simon Fraser University Certification in Restorative Justice and Community Capacity Building. These credentials underscore my deep commitment to creating inclusive and restorative environments for all students and families.

  • I am serving in my 3rd term on the Board of Directors. I current sit on the Governance, Community Land Trust and Bargaining Committees.

    Visit https://www.hogansalleysociety.org to learn more about the Society’s mission.

  • JrBAA is a non profit society empowering Black Youth and their families through training recognition and access to education. In November 2024 I was awarded the King Charles III Coronation Medal for significant contribution to my community and country.

    Visit www.jrbaa.org to learn more about the Society’s educations, community initiatives, and scholarship programs.

    • YWCA Women of Distinction Award Nominee (2026)

    • Soroptomist International Tri-Cities Ruby Award (2025)

    • King Charles III Coronation Medal (2024)

    • United Way Labour Appreciation Community Service Award (2023)

    • BCLC Community Award (2023)

    • United Way Volunteer Spotlight (2023)

    • Labour Day Elsie Award (2020)

    • TELUS Community Champion (2019)

Learn More About Candace's Experience

A Vision for District-Wide Excellence

My unique blend of skills, experience, and passion for youth makes me an ideal candidate for School Board Trustee. As a team player, I am ready to work alongside district leaders, educators, and community partners to build an environment where every student has the opportunity to reach their full potential. I will bring fresh ideas and a collaborative approach to this leadership role, ensuring District 43 continues to prioritize inclusivity, excellence, and community engagement.