About Trevor Kirczenow
When were you born?
Between 1981 and 1996 (Millennial)
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 have experience working in health care research, in the area of equity and inclusion of transgender and non-binary people in reproductive health care. As a health care advocate, I recently worked with MLAs from all parties to substantially improve diabetes care in Manitoba.
Before my kids were born, I worked full time as a violinist for the Winnipeg Symphony Orchestra, and currently I am a freelance musician.
I have been involved with horses for my whole life, and I am currently the breed registrar for the Ojibwe Horse Society. I have a particular interest in working with horses with behaviour problems using positive reinforcement methods that are based in science. I help equines and their owners to overcome severe difficulties such as being fearful of being touched, or aggression towards the veterinarian or farrier.
What's the highest level of education you've attained?
Bachelor'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 lived in Springfield-Ritchot for 10 years.
What is the biggest challenge facing your constituency, and how would you address it?
Environmental concerns are a serious issue here. I have heard from many constituents that they are worried about the proposal to mine silica sand and extract it using an unusual, unproven method that may negatively affect our local water quality. This is a significant challenge because there is a great temptation of money and jobs, and politicians are facing a lot of pressure in this context. I think it is best to be cautious with our water supply. It will take a strong voice to stand up and protect our water and environment, and I'm ready to be that voice!
If elected, what will be your first priority?
Manitoba has suffered from years of underfunding in the critical areas of health and education. Our first priority as a party would be to restore and rebuild those areas by training and funding additional physicians, nurses, health care aides, teachers, and school support staff. The damage done from years of cuts and overhauls will take time to repair.
Who are your role models in politics, and why?
I feel inspired by Dougald Lamont, Jon Gerrard, Cindy Lamoureux, and Shandi Strong. Dougald is so intelligent, and takes in vast amounts of information rapidly and effectively.
While I was campaigning to improve diabetes coverage in Manitoba, I explained the ins and outs of type 1 diabetes to many different MLAs, but Dougald stood out with his ability to understand, assess and communicate about a complex topic while most others had trouble comprehending the details.
Jon's compassion is second to none. Cindy has incredible tenacity and a willingness to put herself out there - she was the only MLA who agreed to publicly try on a continuous glucose monitor and try to learn from the experience during our diabetes awareness campaign.
Shandi is a hard worker who never gives up. Our whole Liberal team is an amazing group that can achieve so much together.
Tell us something about yourself that voters might find surprising.
When I was a teen, I came out to my best friend as transgender. Then I came out to a teacher. I asked that teacher to promise not to tell my parents.
My aunt told me that I shouldn't tell my parents until I was financially independent and living on my own. I followed her advice, and eventually told them when I was in my early twenties.
I don't know what would have happened to me if there had been a law in place at that time like conservatives are proposing now, where kids must have their parents' permission to use a different name or pronoun. This is misguided legislation that will have a destructive effect on vulnerable youth.
I know transgender kids now that are respected and supported by their school community, and I will work to protect their rights.
Other candidates in constituency:
Tammy Ivanco (New Democratic Party)
Ron Schuler (Progressive Conservative)