She brings youth, energy, commitment and passion to her calling. Dr Ruby Dhalla has created history in Canada. Not only is she the first South Asian woman, but also the youngest to be elected as Member of Parliament from Brampton-Springdale in the Federal Elections held in June 2004.

Long Journey Into Service

Her political journey began at 12 when she volunteered with the Liberal Party of Canada as part of a national youth programme. She went to her local Member of Parliament and requested that he sponsor her for this programme at $100. In return, she had to volunteer as part of the programme. "I did not realise the commitment was for every Saturday for one full year," recalls Dhalla. "While other kids played soccer and hockey every week, I worked. It was a wonderful experience!" She gradually became involved with grassroots activities, understanding the party's philosophy and values. She went on to become a youth leader, member of the National Women's Commission and also a party delegate.

Now, after 18 years with the Liberal party, Dhalla says it is a great honour to receive the confidence of the Liberal party and the Prime Minister who had a mandate to ensure there is greater representation of women in the House of Commons.

"It caught me off guard when I got the call in early May 2004; I originally declined. But then I realised that this is what I had been working towards for the last 18 years. I did not want to run away from my responsibilities."

As A Woman, And A Second Generation South Asian...

She finds she can connect with a wide range of the local and Canadian population. Indeed her youth and background in health care are also seen as valuable political attributes.

As A Practising Chiropractor...

Dhalla's primary focus will be on healthcare. She runs several clinics in Brampton, Toronto, Mississauga and Aurora with her brother, Neil, also a chiropractor. Child care, early childhood education, better infrastructure and job creation are also issues high on her priority list.

As A Young Person...

She believes she can relate to the youth and understand the concerns that they face. "Just to understand the young minds, to understand their issues and to give them hope is an achievement in itself," says Dhalla.

As A South Asian Woman...

Her cultural background was viewed as an asset in reaching out to the diverse community in Canada. "I want to be the voice of my constituents in Parliament and serve them with commitment, passion, energy and enthusiasm."