Photo Courtesy Avni Soma NDP

By Tanner Smith

New Democratic Party

Candidate Profile: Avni Soma (NDP) – Yellowhead

Apr 7, 2025 | 10:55 AM

This is a candidate profile for the April 28, 2025 federal election.

All candidates have been asked the same four questions, and were given a 600-word limit.

Responses are unedited for grammar and spelling, and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of rdnewsNOW and Pattison Media.

Advance voting days are April 18, 19, 20 and 21. More info here.

Why are you running to be a Member of Parliament?

1.) I am running to represent Yellowhead because I have a passion for the community. I strongly believe in single payer healthcare, pharmacare and dental care. It has been far too long since we have had a local candidate, one who is willing to put in the work, listen to all the constituents and be a voice for everyone in Ottawa. I believe I am that person. I have been on the campaign trail for 6+months and I want to earn your vote.

Why should people vote for you, and what skills do you have that make you suitable for this role?

2.) I am a scientist, but I’m also a business person. I co-founded a company and took it from zero to over a million dollars in sales. I’m a member of the Coalition for Healthy School Food that operates a hot lunch program in Canmore. I have a passion for my community and I want to help it the best I can.

What will you advocate for; and do you intend to fully toe the party line?

3.) Safe-guarding our healthcare system is one of my highest priorities. It’s important to me that everyone has a doctor, and that the hospitals in our riding serve our constituents. I also plan to listen to the community, and be a strong voice for them. I am a New Democrat because I agree with what the party stands for, but I will advocate for my community.

How do you believe Canada’s federal government should tackle its current predicament with the United States, and where do you sit on Canadian sovereignty?

4.) We have not had a situation like this in our lifetime. I feel the best way to counter President Trump is through dollar-for-dollar tariffs. The money collected from those tariffs must go to those most affected by Trump’s policies. As a business person I have seen first-hand the difficulties inter-provincial trade barriers pose to small businesses. I would work to see them removed. In order to stimulate our local economy, I would push for shovel ready infrastructure projects. Moreover, I would work to ensure that contracts go to local businesses, not foreign firms. I want to see us build Canadian, and buy Canadian. Utilize Canadian labour, and Canadian materials.