Heather Maahs, MLA for Chilliwack North, champions Indigenous family reform and child development in B.C.’s Official Opposition.
Longstanding Advocate Enters Provincial Stage
Heather Maahs, elected in 2024 as the MLA for Chilliwack North, has taken on a pivotal role in British Columbia’s Legislative Assembly. Appointed as the Official Opposition Critic for Children and Family Development – Indigenous Self-Government in Child and Family Services, Maahs brings over 15 years of grassroots public service experience into her new provincial mandate.
A Deep-Rooted Connection to Chilliwack
Residing in Chilliwack since 1993, Maahs has become a trusted figure in the community. Her longstanding relationship with the city informs her political voice, making her a strong local advocate. As a mother and grandmother, her commitment to family issues resonates deeply with constituents across the region.
From School Board to Legislature
Maahs’ political journey began in education. Since 2008, she was elected five times as a Chilliwack School Trustee, championing youth development and community values. Her sustained presence on the board has been widely recognized for promoting accountability and student-focused policy. This foundation laid the groundwork for her broader impact on provincial child and family services.
Championing Indigenous Family Self-Governance
In her current role, Maahs is tasked with holding the government to account on issues surrounding Indigenous self-governance in child welfare. Her critic portfolio reflects a growing provincial focus on reconciliation, systemic reform, and support for culturally grounded family services. She aims to ensure legislative initiatives meet the needs of Indigenous communities with respect and inclusion.
Grounded in Real-World Experience
Before her career in politics, Maahs worked alongside her husband in the construction industry as an entrepreneur. This background has shaped her pragmatic approach to governance—balancing policy with practical, on-the-ground understanding of economic and family realities.
A Clear Vision for Future Reform
As she settles into her role in Victoria, Heather Maahs continues to advocate for transparent, community-driven policies that empower families—especially Indigenous ones. With a solid base of public trust and a focused legislative agenda, she is positioned to be a compelling voice for change in B.C.’s social development landscape.
This article is original and written specifically for SurreySpeak.com
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