2024 Ward 5 Candidate Profile - Shelly Scott-England

With the upcoming 2024 Ward 5 election happening on June 10th, Modern Mississauga Media has reached out to all candidates inviting them to answer the same five questions so voters can become more familiar with them.
Invitations went out to all candidates.
Click here to read all of the Ward 5 candidate profiles and check back often as responses will be posted within 72 hours of receipt.
Candidate answers are unedited and their contact information is at the bottom if you’d like to connect with them.
Click here to learn how to vote in the Ward 5 election.

1. Why are you running for Councillor of Ward 5?
There are real challenges that I know our Ward 5 residents, families and business owners are dealing with and often struggling with, everyday. The high cost of living, lack of job security, concerns about public safety, and better prospects for youth and seniors are just a few of the important issues I will prioritize. As a business owner, I understand the unique challenges of not only running but also growing a business in uncertain economic times. I bring a wealth of experience across business, education, community development and fiscal planning, as well as a deep understanding of the most pressing issues facing families, individuals and businesses today. I currently serve as leader of the City of Mississauga's Black Caucus Alliance, and am also a member of former Mississauga Mayor Bonnie Crombie’s Community Advisory Board. In addition, I am a member of Rotary Club of Mississauga, Saint Peter and Paul Catholic Women’s League, former board director of BridgeWay Family Services, and past President of the Congress of Black Women of Canada.

2. What are your top 3 campaign priorities and why?
My priorities are affordable living, public safety, increased neighbourhood services.  My goal is helping people build a better life for their families, their businesses and our communities. I strongly believe that fostering strong families is the backbone of our community. My multifaceted strategy is aimed at promoting local businesses and ensuring community benefits from government initiatives and funding will go towards improving neighbourhood services. By equally providing families and seniors with access to the right resources and programs we can improve lives and resident well being.

3. How do you plan to be actively involved and include residents in community decisions? 
Through active and regularly scheduled civic engagement opportunities.
By genuinely caring for people and listening to their everyday concerns, I am committed to being a voice for all residents while helping to co-create real solutions that benefit families and our community. I have led transformational initiatives, helped refugees find suitable housing and jobs, garnered support for food banks, and delivered programs for the elderly. My past work fostering youth opportunities, underscores my dedication for nurturing the next generation while still prioritizing the needs and neighborhood services of all residents. I am committed to collaborating with community organizations to enhance neighborhood safety, ensuring a secure and thriving environment for all.

4. How will you be actively supporting our local businesses if elected?
As a business owner I can attest, small and medium businesses provide significant employment opportunities for newcomers and residents alike and they contribute significantly to our city’s budget.  Ward 5 was the innovative hub of Mississauga in the not so far past, we want to return to that forward thinking, and innovative culture. I would like to incentivize businesses and individuals seeking to innovate city services and develop green technology initiatives. I intend to advocate for wrap-around support for businesses by launching an accelerator program. Businesses will have the resources, coaching and mentorship to feel a part of a dynamic ecosystem that supports not only the business’ longevity but the well-being of its owners. In establishing partnerships with local agencies, tertiary institutions and industries, I will ensure youths have pathways to meaningful opportunities and businesses have a steady supply of skilled talent to drive innovation and economic development.  

5. What does Ward 5 currently excel at?
There is much that Ward 5 excels at through its people and its rich history. Both the Malton and Britannia communities are among the first settlements in present day Mississauga in 1891 and 1821 respectively. It exudes community warmth, exemplifying assimilation of all cultures within the Canadian landscape. Despite some debilitating challenges over the last 2 centuries Ward 5 continues to build community well-being, connect cities and countries, lead initiatives and redefine its potential for industry growth. I believe I can help Ward 5 return to the dynamic, constantly striving, backbone of our city.