Syed Tassidq Hussain is one of the seven Okotokians who have thrown their hat in the ring for a seat on council this fall.

He and his family emigrated 12 years ago to Canada from Kashmir, originally living in Calgary and moving to Okotoks five years ago.

For Syed, the biggest motivator for his council run is the desire to give back to the country and community.

"The way Canada treated me, the way they helped me out when I came here as a refugee... I want to return something back, I want to work for Canada, for Okotokians. I want to do something for them, so I decided to go for council. That's the plan."

Before coming to Canada, he worked as a student leader and a member of the media advocating for human rights in Kashmir.

While Syed says Kashmir's political situation is a far cry from that of Canada, his goal as a councillor would still be to advocate for those in need.

"Within council, if I become a councillor, I want to work for the people who really need help, especially in the housing sector, low-income people, senior people, children."

He continues, "Personally, lots of people have contacted me to talk about it. They've gotten subsidies, but it's not working for them. Their families, they're struggling. It's challenging for them."

He also hopes to preserve Okotoks' small-town feel, which he contrasts to Calgary's rapid expansion.

Syed says it played a big role in his move from Calgary to Okotoks.

"It's a very family-oriented community. I have two kids and my wife, she's an education assistant in High RIver's Spitzee Elementary. That was our reason to move here. That's why I'm here."

 

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