About Trenton Zazalak
When were you born?
Between 1966 and 1980 (Generation X)
Tell our readers a bit about your professional life. What do you do for a living? If you're an incumbent candidate, what did you do before you entered politics?
I started my adult life by joining the Canadian Forces. After the three years in the CF, I officially became a civilian and attended university in Brandon.
Over the years I have worked in many industries including indigenous education and training, manufacturing, Human Resources, and working with newcomers.
I am a serial entrepreneur having run several businesses over the years, I completed my MBA in 2013 from Athabasca University and I am currently a business instructor.
My motivation to enter politics comes from my desire to build a more prosperous community in Brandon. Living in Brandon for nearly three decades I know our community can do better. We just need leaders with a vision.
What's the highest level of education you've attained?
Master's degree
How long have you lived in the constituency? If you don't currently live there, what led you to run there instead of where you live?
I have resided in Brandon East for a combined 15 years. I have had three different residences in Brandon East over that time frame.
What is the biggest challenge facing your constituency, and how would you address it?
Biggest challenge is lack of opportunity for Employment. 85% of people in Brandon could be considered under employed. With an average salary being around $49,000, nearly 10% lower than the Canadian average we need to encourage more innovative business startups and with the Liberal proposed Manitoba Business Development Bank entrepreneurs will have the capital to make this happen.
If elected, what will be your first priority?
My community.
Who are your role models in politics, and why?
I have no role models in politics. Being a politician is hard and I find most politicians eventual disappoint.
Tell us something about yourself that voters might find surprising.
I am a father of four children, my second youngest passed away in 2017 from a degenerative neurological condition called Batten disease. My family was also a foster family for two children with cognitive/physical disabilities.
Other candidates in constituency:
Len Isleifson (Progressive Conservative)
Glen Simard (New Democratic Party)