The Association of Municipalities of Ontario (AMO) is launching a series of workshops this winter designed to guide young residents of Sarnia-Lambton through the process of running for municipal office in the October 2026 elections. These virtual sessions are focused on dismantling the barriers that often keep younger voices out of the council chambers. The […]
The Association of Municipalities of Ontario (AMO) is launching a series of workshops this winter designed to guide young residents of Sarnia-Lambton through the process of running for municipal office in the October 2026 elections. These virtual sessions are focused on dismantling the barriers that often keep younger voices out of the council chambers.
The workshops will be led by three established municipal leaders who entered politics early in their careers: Natasha Salonen, Mayor of Wilmot; Cam Wales, City of Brockville Councillor; and Aidan Kallioinen, Town of Espanola Councillor. This team will provide firsthand insights into the realities of campaigning as a young person in Ontario.
The curriculum covers the foundational mechanics of a municipal run, from understanding the legal requirements of becoming a candidate to developing communication strategies for community engagement. Beyond the logistics, the sessions aim to build the confidence necessary for young leaders to navigate a system often dominated by older demographics and established political networks.
The series is scheduled for three Wednesday evenings: February 18, March 11, and April 15, all running from 6:30 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. By providing these resources early in the 2026 election cycle, the program encourages a shift away from institutional gatekeeping toward a more representative local democracy.
Young residents interested in attending can register through the AMO website. These sessions serve as a practical entry point for those looking to move beyond community advocacy and into the legislative structures that shape Sarnia-Lambton’s future.
