SHELLY JAN
Langley-Abbotsford
Shelly Jan
Candidate — Langley-Abbotsford
A Life of Perseverance, Service and Advocacy
My journey to this point has been shaped by family, perseverance, education, service, and a deep appreciation for Canada.
In 1975, my father immigrated to Canada with his four children after my mother passed away when I was just five years old. Like many immigrant families, we faced challenges, but my father worked hard to build a future for our family.
I became the first person in my immediate and extended family to attend university. I graduated with a Bachelor of Science, followed by a Bachelor of Education, and ultimately completed my Master of Education—another first in my family.
Education changed the course of my life, and it became the foundation of my career and my commitment to helping others.
A Career Dedicated to People
I began my career as a teacher before becoming involved in the teachers’ union, where I spent 19 years advocating for the fair treatment of more than 65,000 members.
That experience taught me the importance of accountability, responsible financial management, negotiation, policy development, and constitutional governance. I understand what it means to be entrusted with other people’s money and the responsibility that comes with making decisions that affect thousands of people.
Throughout my career, I have gained experience in education, health and safety, contract negotiations, policy and constitutional development, as well as working within the health-care system.
I have also worked with young offenders and seniors, developed programs, and participated in outreach initiatives supporting youth, children, people experiencing poverty, and those experiencing homelessness.
I continue to mentor and empower women, encouraging them to step forward into positions of leadership and decision-making where they can make a meaningful difference.
Service Beyond Our Community
For more than a decade, I have organized and coordinated numerous humanitarian trips, each designed to meet specific needs within different communities. Every one of these experiences has left me more thankful for what I have and more appreciative of the opportunities we have in Canada—including access to education and our publicly funded health-care system.
Service has taught me that leadership isn’t about a title. Leadership is about showing up, listening, taking responsibility, and serving others.
Overcoming Challenges
My journey has not always been easy.
Growing up, I faced challenges ranging from racism to sexism. Being the underdog meant I often had to work harder, persevere, and prove myself.
Those experiences didn’t define me—they strengthened my determination. They taught me to stand up for myself and, more importantly, to stand up for others who may not have a voice.
My Commitment to Langley-Abbotsford
I am proud to be a OneBC member and the OneBC candidate for Langley-Abbotsford.
As your advocate, my door will always be open to you. I am here to listen to your concerns, understand the challenges facing our families and communities, and represent the people of Langley-Abbotsford.
I am asking for the opportunity to serve—not for myself, but for our community and for the future of British Columbia.
I am Shelly Jan. I am your neighbour. I am your advocate and I am here to be your voice.
