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Filipino-American Rechie Valdez Appointed as Canada's Minister of Small Business

By: GWL Team | Tuesday, 1 August 2023

Rechie Valdez, a Filipino-American, has made history in Canada, where she now serves as the nation's new Minister of Small Business. Rechie made history when she decided to take this important post in the Canadian government, becoming the first person of Filipino origin to do so.

On July 27, Rechie posted a message on her Facebook page thanking everyone and sharing her joy. “I am really honoured and delighted to serve as Canada's Minister of Small Business”, the woman said. “Working with and assisting small companies around the nation is something I look forward to.”

Rechie emphasised the importance of her appointment, not just for herself but also for the Filipino population in Canada, in an interview with a global media outlet. “Knowing that I was speaking for the almost one million Filipinos who were living in Canada at the time was a very moving experience for me.”

In October 2021, Rechie first made history when she was elected as a member of the Canadian Parliament, particularly to represent Mississauga—Streetsville, Ontario.

Rechie was a vocal supporter of several important initiatives while serving in the house. Her initiatives were geared at combating climate change, encouraging financial assistance for female entrepreneurs, boosting healthcare spending, and helping small company owners.

Following her selection as minister of small business, Rechie expressed her sincere gratitude to Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and her backers for enabling this once-in-a-lifetime chance. She also specifically thanked Mississauga—Streetsville residents for their continued support.

The neighbourhood is anxiously awaiting the improvements and enhancements Rechie will bring to Canada's small business environment when she assumes her new position. Her enthusiasm for fostering business and commitment to helping the public will undoubtedly have a big influence on the development and prosperity of the country's economy.