From labour lawyer to MLA, Jessie Sunner brings fresh leadership to Surrey–Newton with a focus on justice, healthcare, and community safety.
Introduction
Say hello to Jessie Sunner—Surrey–Newton’s newest force in provincial politics. With deep roots in the community and a background in labour and human rights law, she’s not just another name in the B.C. Legislature. She’s a driven advocate, a fierce community voice, and someone who’s already proving she means business. Let’s dive into the journey of this trailblazing MLA who’s bringing bold ideas and a practical vision to one of B.C.’s most dynamic ridings.
Early Life and Background
Jessie Sunner grew up in Surrey, B.C., raised in a Punjabi immigrant family that planted strong values of fairness and resilience early on. Her parents arrived in Canada in the 1970s and 80s, navigating the challenges of settling in a new land. Watching them work hard shaped Jessie’s determination to give back to the community that raised her.
She attended Queen Elizabeth Secondary, then pursued her undergraduate studies at Simon Fraser University’s Surrey campus. Jessie later moved to Calgary for law school, graduating in 2018 before returning to practice in her hometown. Law wasn’t just a profession for her—it was a calling sparked by her own experiences and her community’s needs. Her parents always knew she’d be a fighter; growing up, they’d jokingly say she should be a lawyer because she loved a good debate.
Career Journey
Before stepping into politics, Jessie carved out a strong identity as a labour and human rights lawyer. She worked for the Hospital Employees’ Union, standing up for workers—many from immigrant backgrounds—who were often overlooked and undervalued. The layoffs that affected hundreds of healthcare workers deeply impacted her, driving her to take on cases that championed dignity and fair treatment.
But her advocacy didn’t stop there. Jessie served as vice-president of the Surrey Women’s Centre and sat on boards for the South Asian Bar Association and the BC College of Social Workers. Her work centered on community, justice, and ensuring people had access to the support they deserved. For three years, she also served on the Surrey Police Board, where she focused on culturally competent policing and better responses for youth at risk.
These roles weren’t just stepping stones—they were her training ground. Through them, Jessie developed a grounded, people-first leadership style and a reputation for being both tough and compassionate.
Key Achievements & Public Perception
In the 2024 provincial election, Jessie Sunner made headlines by winning the Surrey–Newton seat for the BC NDP with over 50% of the vote. She succeeded longtime MLA Harry Bains, bringing fresh energy to a community hungry for progress.
Jessie quickly outlined her priorities: building a stronger healthcare system (including a new hospital), improving housing affordability, and investing in schools and youth programs. Her background in law and public service gave her credibility from day one—and she wasted no time putting it to use.
Soon after her win, she was appointed Parliamentary Secretary for Anti-Racism Initiatives. In this role, she’s leading efforts to address systemic racism in institutions and promote equity across the province. In Surrey, she’s also helped secure millions in funding for public safety, mental health supports, and youth mentorship programs.
Public perception of Jessie is largely positive—people see her as honest, engaged, and deeply connected to the real struggles of everyday residents. Her ability to speak plainly and act decisively sets her apart.
Controversies & Challenges
So far, Jessie has avoided the usual political scandals. However, early on, some online chatter mistakenly suggested she was related to her predecessor. Jessie addressed the rumors with grace, clarifying that cultural terms of respect like “uncle” had been misinterpreted.
Beyond that, her biggest challenge is delivering on big promises—healthcare reform, crime prevention, and affordability—while managing the complex needs of a growing, diverse urban riding.
Current Role & Future Outlook
Now firmly established in the B.C. Legislature, Jessie Sunner continues to push for policies that reflect the needs of her community. She’s focused on reducing crime through community-led initiatives, expanding job opportunities in the agricultural tech sector, and making sure anti-racism work is more than just talk.
As Surrey–Newton continues to grow, Jessie’s pragmatic and passionate approach could make her a leading voice not just for her riding, but for all of British Columbia. Her focus remains on listening to residents, pushing for meaningful change, and ensuring every voice is heard—especially those too often left behind.
Conclusion
Jessie Sunner is more than just Surrey–Newton’s MLA—she’s a reflection of what modern leadership can look like: rooted in community, informed by real-life experience, and driven by a bold, inclusive vision for the future. Her journey from a Surrey high school student to a lawyer, board member, and now MLA is one of purpose and persistence. And as her star rises, so does the hope of many who see her as a powerful advocate for change.
